Labubu: The Rising Star of Collectible Toys
Originating from Nordic folklore and brought to life by artist Kasing Lung, Labubu made its debut in 2015 as a character in “The Monsters” storybook. This playful elf, characterized by pointed ears and an infectious grin, transitioned to collectible toys in 2019, thanks to Pop Mart, a prominent Chinese company dedicated to collectibles. Currently, Labubu is carving a niche in the luxury market, capturing the attention of toy enthusiasts and fashion aficionados alike.
Labubu’s Popularity Soars in 2025
With over 1.4 million TikTok videos featuring Labubu, the dolls reached unprecedented popularity in 2025. This surge is reflected in a dramatic increase in search interest on Google, as celebrities like Rihanna, Dua Lipa, Post Malone, and Blackpink’s Lisa showcase their affection for these charming toys publicly. As Labubu gains traction, its appeal expands beyond mere collectibles, becoming a trendy accessory in pop culture.
Building a Brand: The Fashion Statement of Labubu
As Emily Brough, head of IP licensing at Pop Mart for the Americas, noted, “Labubu has become more than just a collectible; it’s a bold statement of individual style.” The global collectibles company has introduced over 300 Labubu styles since 2019, including collaborative efforts and unique charms clipped onto luxury bags, as observed at events like Paris Fashion Week.
The Intersection of Collectibles and Fashion
Brough emphasizes that Labubu’s emergence in high fashion—from New York Fashion Week to luxury accessories—demonstrates its cultural resonance. The character, along with others from Pop Mart, like Skullpanda and Peach Riot, serves as a bridge connecting the worlds of collectibles and fashion. Celebrity endorsements are driving organic traction, showcasing Labubu’s growing influence.
The Mystery of Blind Boxes
One of Labubu’s initial attractions stemmed from Pop Mart’s innovative blind-box strategy. These sealed packages contain figures from specific series, offering an element of surprise and anticipation when opened. This format transforms the purchasing experience into a sense of community, as fans share, trade, and engage in discussions about their finds.
Pricing Trends and Accessibility
Initially, standard blind boxes from Pop Mart were priced between $13 and $16. However, recent Labubu releases have seen prices rise to around $27.99, influenced by external factors like tariffs. Despite these increases, Brough reassures fans that affordability remains a priority, ensuring that characters are accessible for collectors at all levels.
The Hype: Reselling Market and Collaborations
As demand for Labubu collectibles skyrockets, some styles have become as coveted as limited-edition sneakers or luxury handbags, commanding prices up to $3,134 on resale platforms like StockX and eBay. Noteworthy collaborations include the Labubu x Kow Yokoyama Ma. K Series, the Labubu Coca-Cola Series, and partnerships with brands like Uniqlo and the Chinese label Pronounce. Brough indicates that these collaborations are just the beginning, with more releases on the horizon aimed at boosting fan engagement and expanding the Pop Mart universe.
