The Labubu doll has taken the internet by storm in recent years. What began as a quirky art toy from a niche designer in Hong Kong has grown into a global pop culture icon, with fans from Asia to the West lining up to get their hands on it. In this blog, we’ll dive deep into the backstory of Labubu, explore how it became a viral sensation, and uncover why collectors are willing to pay hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars for rare editions.
1. The Origins of Labubu
The Labubu doll was created by Kasing Lung, a Hong Kong-based artist and illustrator known for his whimsical and surreal character designs. Labubu first appeared as part of the The Monsters series—a group of unique, fantastical creatures with exaggerated facial expressions and playful personalities.
Kasing Lung’s style is heavily inspired by European fairy tales, vintage cartoons, and a touch of dark humor. Labubu, with its signature big smile, pointy teeth, and bunny-like ears, became the standout character of the series.
What Makes Labubu Unique
- Distinctive Design – Unlike cute, smooth-faced toys, Labubu’s design blends adorable and mischievous traits.
- Storybook Origins – Many Labubu designs are tied to fairy-tale themes and storybook worlds.
- Limited Editions – Most Labubu releases are produced in small quantities, increasing exclusivity.
2. The Rise to Popularity
For years, Labubu was mainly known among hardcore toy collectors, especially those who followed POP MART, the designer toy company that collaborates with Kasing Lung. POP MART’s blind-box release strategy created excitement and anticipation for each new Labubu variant.
The turning point came around 2021–2023, when TikTok and Instagram began overflowing with unboxing videos and creative photo shoots featuring Labubu dolls. Collectors shared clips of rare “chase” versions, limited collaborations, and custom-painted Labubus, sparking global curiosity.
Key Moments in Going Viral
- Social Media Buzz – TikTok videos featuring Labubu reached millions of views.
- Celebrity Endorsements – Asian pop stars and influencers showcased their collections.
- Resale Market Explosion – Certain rare Labubu figures sold for 10–20 times their retail price.
3. How Blind Box Culture Fueled the Craze
POP MART releases most Labubu dolls in “blind boxes,” meaning buyers don’t know which design they’ll get until opening the package. This system creates a sense of mystery and encourages repeat purchases to complete a set.
The scarcity of certain “hidden” or “chase” designs makes them extremely desirable. For example, the rare “Crystal Labubu” or “Rainbow Labubu” can fetch over $500 on collector marketplaces.
Read more about blind box culture: Hypebeast – The Blind Box Phenomenon
4. The Collector Community
Labubu’s popularity is sustained by an active global community of collectors. Online forums, Facebook groups, and Discord channels are filled with fans trading, selling, and showcasing their latest finds. Instagram hashtags like #Labubu have thousands of posts, creating a constant stream of content.
Top Platforms for Labubu Fans
- Reddit Vinyl Toys Community
- Carousell Marketplace – Popular for reselling rare Labubus.
- Instagram – Photo showcases and influencer collaborations.
5. Why People Love Labubu
Part of Labubu’s charm lies in its ability to evoke nostalgia and emotion. It’s not just a toy—it’s a piece of art that tells a story.
Main Reasons for Popularity
- Emotional Connection – Fans feel a sense of personality in each design.
- Artistic Value – Hand-painted details and creative concepts elevate Labubu beyond typical toys.
- Social Currency – Owning rare editions signals status in the collector community.
6. Price Trends and Rarity
While the average retail price of a Labubu blind box is $10–$15, rare editions can fetch hundreds on resale platforms like StockX and eBay.
| Labubu Edition | Retail Price | Resale Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Blind Box | $12 | $12–$30 |
| Rare “Chase” Edition | $12 | $100–$500+ |
| Limited Collaboration | $25–$50 | $200–$1,000+ |
7. The Future of Labubu
With POP MART expanding into the U.S. and European markets, Labubu is poised to continue growing in popularity. Collaborations with fashion brands, art galleries, and even gaming companies may further cement its place as a cultural icon.
However, like all collector markets, the Labubu craze could face saturation. Maintaining limited supply and fresh designs will be crucial for long-term success.
8. Tips for New Collectors
- Start with retail purchases from official POP MART stores or verified online shops.
- Follow POP MART’s social media for release announcements.
- Join collector communities for trading opportunities and authenticity checks.
- Beware of counterfeit Labubu dolls on unverified platforms.
Official source: POP MART – Kasing Lung Profile
Final Thoughts
The Labubu doll’s journey from a niche art toy to a viral sensation is a testament to the power of social media, limited-edition marketing, and emotional design. Whether you see it as a collectible, an art piece, or simply a cute companion, one thing is certain—Labubu has earned its place in pop culture history.
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Ankit Joshi
