Labubu, the mischievous yet endearing character with pointed ears and serrated teeth, has transcended its origins as a collectible toy to become a global cultural phenomenon. Created by Hong Kong illustrator Kasing Lung, Labubu is the most prominent figure in ‘The Monsters’ series, a line of zoomorphic elves that have captivated collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.
The Rise to Prominence: A Market Powerhouse
Labubu’s journey to global recognition has been nothing short of meteoric. Initially introduced in Kasing Lung’s 2015 book, the character gained significant traction, especially after being popularized by Pop Mart, a Chinese toy company known for its ‘blind box’ collectibles. The impact of social media, particularly platforms like Instagram, played a crucial role in amplifying Labubu’s appeal, with its popularity soaring in April 2024 after K-pop superstar Lisa began posting photos with various Labubu dolls.
The financial success of Labubu is a testament to its widespread appeal. In 2025, Labubu’s annual revenue reached an impressive $418 million, with some individual dolls fetching high prices in the secondary market. Pop Mart’s financial reports highlight the character’s significant contribution to their overall revenue. For instance, ‘The Monsters’ line, spearheaded by Labubu, generated over RMB 3 billion (approximately $417 million USD) in 2024, accounting for a substantial portion of Pop Mart’s total revenue. The company has seen a net profit increase of 396% and a 204% jump in revenues largely due to Labubu’s success, with projections indicating that Labubu is on track to become a billion-dollar business.
Beyond Collectibles: The Creative World of Labubu
While primarily known for its collectible figures, Labubu’s influence extends into various creative avenues. The character’s unique design and playful nature have inspired a range of merchandise, from plush toys and apparel to accessories. This expansion showcases Labubu’s versatility and its ability to resonate with a diverse audience.
For fans who wish to engage with Labubu in a more interactive and personal way, there’s a growing trend of Labubu coloring pages. These free printable sheets offer a creative outlet for both children and adults to bring the character to life with their own artistic flair. You can find numerous options for labubu spalvinti, providing hours of entertainment and a unique way to connect with the beloved character.
The Future of Labubu: Sustaining the Hype
Despite its rapid growth, the market for Labubu collectibles has shown some fluctuations, with prices for mini Labubu figures experiencing a slight dip from their peak in September 2025. However, this is often a natural market correction after periods of intense speculative buying. Pop Mart continues to innovate with new designs and collaborations, aiming to sustain Labubu’s momentum and further solidify its position as a global icon in the collectible toy market. The brand’s ability to adapt and expand its offerings, coupled with its strong community engagement, suggests a promising future for Labubu.
Labubu Price Guide: A Snapshot
The pricing of Labubu figures can vary significantly based on rarity, edition, and market demand. While standard blind box figures are relatively affordable, special editions and highly sought-after designs can command substantial prices in the secondary market. Below is a general overview of Labubu pricing:
| Type of Labubu Figure | Typical Retail Price (USD) | Resale Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Blind Box | $20 — $30 | $30 — $60 |
| Limited Edition | $40 — $80 | $100 — $500+ |
| Rare/Secret Edition | $20 — $30 (blind box) | $500 — $10,000+ |
| Large Figures (e.g., MEGA 400%) | $200 — $300 | $300 — $1,000+ |
Note: Resale prices are highly speculative and can fluctuate rapidly based on market trends and collector demand. Some exceptionally rare figures have sold for over $10,000.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Labubu
Here are some frequently asked questions about Labubu, providing deeper insights into this captivating phenomenon:
- What is Labubu and who created it?
Labubu is a popular character from ‘The Monsters’ series, a collection of whimsical, zoomorphic elves with exaggerated facial features, most notably high, pointed ears and serrated teeth. Despite their mischievous appearance, Labubu and its companions are often portrayed as kind and endearing. The character was created by Hong Kong-born illustrator Kasing Lung, who first introduced Labubu in his 2015 art book. Labubu’s unique blend of ‘ugly-cute’ aesthetics has resonated with a global audience, making it a standout in the designer toy world.
- How did Labubu become so popular?
Labubu’s rise to global fame can be attributed to several factors. Initially, its unique design and the engaging storytelling by Kasing Lung garnered a dedicated fanbase. The collaboration with Pop Mart, a leading Chinese toy company specializing in ‘blind box’ collectibles, significantly expanded Labubu’s reach. The ‘blind box’ marketing strategy, where the specific figure inside is unknown until opened, adds an element of surprise and collectibility, driving demand. Furthermore, social media played a pivotal role, with influencers and celebrities, most notably K-pop sensation Lisa, showcasing their Labubu collections, which propelled the character into mainstream consciousness and viral trends.
- Are Labubu figures a good investment?
While some rare Labubu figures have fetched significant prices in the secondary market, treating them purely as financial investments carries risks. The value of collectibles can be highly speculative and subject to market trends, demand fluctuations, and the introduction of new editions. While certain limited or secret editions may appreciate in value, standard blind box figures typically do not see substantial increases. Collectors often purchase Labubu figures for their artistic appeal, emotional connection, and the joy of collecting, rather than solely for investment purposes. It’s advisable to approach collecting with a passion for the art rather than as a guaranteed financial return.
- Where can I buy authentic Labubu figures?
Authentic Labubu figures are primarily available through official Pop Mart stores, both physical and online. Authorized retailers and select designer toy shops also carry genuine products. Due to Labubu’s popularity, there is a market for counterfeit figures. To ensure authenticity, it is recommended to purchase directly from Pop Mart’s official website or app, or from reputable and authorized dealers. Be cautious of unusually low prices or unofficial sellers, especially on third-party marketplaces, as these may indicate counterfeit products.
- What is the significance of ‘blind boxes’ in Labubu’s popularity?
The ‘blind box’ concept is central to Labubu’s appeal and Pop Mart’s business model. In this format, customers purchase a sealed box without knowing which specific figure from a series they will receive. This creates an exciting element of surprise and anticipation, akin to a lottery. It encourages repeat purchases as collectors aim to complete a set or find a rare ‘secret’ edition. The thrill of the unknown, combined with the aesthetic appeal of Labubu figures, fosters a strong collecting community and drives engagement, contributing significantly to the brand’s commercial success and cultural impact.
