All About Labubu: The Expensive, Coveted Toy Taking Over The Internet

Labubu was conceived in 2015 by Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung, who was raised in the Netherlands. Drawing inspiration from Nordic mythology.

Lung introduced Labubu as part of his “The Monsters” series—a collection of characters embodying both good and evil. Despite its mischievous appearance, Labubu is portrayed as a kind-hearted character in Lung’s narratives.

Today, in the realm of collectable toys, few have achieved the meteoric rise of Labubu. This quirky plush elf, characterised by its oversized head, sharp teeth, and wide eyes, has become a global sensation, blending elements of Nordic folklore with modern pop culture.

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The character gained wider recognition in 2019 following a collaboration with Chinese toy company Pop Mart. This partnership propelled Labubu into the spotlight.

One of the key factors behind Labubu’s success is Pop Mart’s blind box sales model. Each box contains a randomly selected figure, adding an element of surprise and excitement for collectors.

This approach has led to a surge in demand, with fans eagerly awaiting restocks and often lining up outside stores. The thrill of unboxing and the allure of rare figures have contributed to Labubu’s status as a coveted collectable.

Endorsements from global celebrities have further amplified Labubu’s popularity. In April 2024, BLACKPINK’s Lisa shared her Labubu “Macarons” series on Instagram, sparking a trend among fans and solidifying the toy’s status as a cultural icon. Other celebrities, including Rihanna and Kim Kardashian, have also been spotted with Labubu figures, fueling the toy’s global appeal.

ELLE Japan IG update:
“#Labubu, the plush charm that’s creating buzz all over the world,..”

Among celebrities, Blackpink’s #LISA was the first to show off the Labubu, wearing it on her LV bag. This led to fans flocking to stores to purchase Monsters blind boxes.

@popmart pic.twitter.com/syt9pMsMyX

— MONALALISA👑 (@thequeen_lalisa) June 10, 2025

The fervour surrounding Labubu has translated into impressive market figures. In June 2025, a four-foot-tall Labubu doll sold for over $170,000 at an auction in Beijing. Pop Mart’s revenue from the “The Monsters” line reached $415.2 million in 2024, accounting for over 23% of the company’s total revenue.

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Where to Find Labubu

For those looking to add Labubu to their collection, it’s advisable to purchase directly from Pop Mart’s official website or authorised retailers. Due to the high demand, counterfeit versions have emerged in the market. However, Labubu comes with a hefty price tag, ranging from ₹5,000 to ₹1 lakh or more.