For fans of quirky collectibles and unique art toys, a new character has quietly taken over the shelves and feeds of collectors across the globe. Its name? Labubu — a bug-eyed, big-eared forest creature born from the mind of a Hong Kong artist, now a cult favorite thanks to Pop Mart. Blending spooky charm with unexpected cuteness, Labubu might just be the most original toy you’ve never heard of.
What Is Labubu?
At first glance, Labubu looks strange. Big eyes, pointy teeth, long ears, and a slightly chaotic expression — it’s hard to say if it’s scary, adorable, or both. And that’s exactly the point.
Labubu was created by Kasing Lung, a former comic book artist known for his dreamy, emotional monsters. First introduced in a storybook-style series called The Monsters, Labubu quickly stood out for its expressive design and mysterious personality. It’s a creature from the woods, a little wild, a little misunderstood — and totally captivating.
Why Is Everyone Talking About Labubu?
Labubu’s rise has been fueled by a perfect storm: limited releases, bold aesthetics, and a growing community of collectors around the world. But what makes it different?
Blind box thrill and rarity
Most Labubu toys are released in blind boxes, meaning you don’t know which version you’ll get until you open it. This turns each purchase into a surprise, and some editions are ultra-rare — with secret “chase” versions appearing in 1 out of 72 boxes or less.
The perfect mix of cute and creepy
Labubu sits in a sweet spot between kawaii culture and gothic design. It’s a plushie or vinyl toy, sure, but it wouldn’t look out of place in a Tim Burton movie. That unique balance appeals to a wide range of fans — from anime lovers to designer toy collectors.
Emotional design that tells a story
Each Labubu has its own emotion, theme, and backstory. Some are playful, some melancholic, some angelic or even ghostly. Collections like Macaron, Checkmate, and Halloween give fans different sides of Labubu’s world to explore and collect.
Pop Mart and the Power of Designer Toys
Pop Mart, the Chinese brand behind Labubu’s global success, has been a key player in transforming the toy industry. Their model: create high-quality, affordable designer toys in limited runs — and sell them through blind boxes and seasonal drops.
Thanks to Pop Mart, Labubu has evolved into hundreds of variations, including keychains, pendants, mini-figures, and oversized plush dolls. It’s not just a toy anymore — it’s a movement.
Where to Start Your Labubu Collection
Getting into Labubu doesn’t require thousands of dollars — just a love for unique collectibles. While some rare pieces go for serious money on the resale market, there are plenty of affordable options for beginners.
If you’re looking for an entry point, check out Labubu Doll — a curated online shop offering a wide selection of Labubu plush, vinyl figures, and keychains, with free US shipping from $25. Whether you’re hunting for a specific series or just want to grab your first piece, it’s a solid place to begin your collection.
Final Thoughts: More Than a Toy
Labubu is many things: a character, a collectible, a tiny piece of emotional design. It’s not trying to be perfect — it’s weird, raw, and expressive. That’s exactly why so many fans are hooked. If you’re into cute-but-creepy, art-driven toys with heart, Labubu might just be your next obsession.
