Are you seeing Labubus everywhere and wondering why these quirky little creatures have suddenly taken the toy world by storm?
If you’ve come across the name Labubu but aren’t quite sure what all the fuss is about, you’re in the right place. This blog post will break down everything you need to know about Labubu — what it is, why it’s so popular, how Labubu became famous, and how you can start your own Labubu toy collection.
What is Labubu?
At first glance, Labubu might look a bit unusual—some might even say “ugly but funny.” But there’s no denying the charm behind these collectible plush toys that have captured hearts worldwide.
Labubu is a character from The Monsters toy series, created by Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung and marketed by the collectible toy giant Pop Mart.
Known for its distinctive design featuring pointy ears, big eyes, and a mischievous grin showing nine teeth, Labubu stands out from the sea of cute and cuddly toys.
Labubu isn’t alone; it belongs to a “tribe” called The Monsters, which includes other characters like Mokoko, Pato, Spooky, Tycoco (Labubu’s “skeleton-looking” boyfriend), and Zimomo, the leader with a spiked tail.
These characters come in the form of collectible figures, usually sold inside blind boxes — meaning you don’t know which figure you’re getting until you open it, adding an element of surprise and excitement to collecting.
Where Labubu started and how it became famous
Labubu first appeared in 2015, but it didn’t immediately become the sensation it is today. The toy’s popularity skyrocketed after a 2019 collaboration with Pop Mart, a leading brand in designer collectible toys. This partnership introduced Labubu to a broader audience, especially in Asia, where collectible culture thrives.
Fast forward to 2025, and Labubu has become a viral sensation, boosted by high-profile endorsements from celebrities like Lisa of Blackpink and international pop star Dua Lipa. You might have seen these stars carrying Labubu keychains or featuring the toys in their social media posts.
If you thought the craze was just for small plushies, think again:
in June 2025, a four-foot-tall mint-green Labubu was sold for a jaw-dropping $170,000 at the first official Labubu auction in Beijing.
That’s right — a single Labubu toy, bigger than most people, fetching a massive price tag, proving just how popular and valuable Labubu toys have become.
Why Labubu is popular: the allure behind the craze
So, what exactly makes Labubu so popular? There are a few reasons:
Unique design: Labubu’s look is quirky and memorable, standing out with its sharp ears and wide grin. It’s cute but with an edge, appealing to fans who want something different from traditional plush toys.
Blind box excitement: The thrill of not knowing which Labubu figure you’ll get creates a fun and addictive collecting experience.
Community and culture: Labubu fans share their finds, trades, and customizations on social media, creating a vibrant and supportive community.
Celebrites: When stars like Lisa and Dua Lipa get involved, Labubu’s cool factor shoots through the roof.
Artistic appeal: Created by a talented artist, Labubu appeals not only to kids but also to adult collectors who appreciate design and pop culture.
What Labubu is rare: hunting for the most valuable Labubu toys
For collectors, knowing what Labubu is rare is key. Limited editions, special colorways, or figures that only appeared in certain regions tend to be the most sought-after.
Some rare Labubu toys come in exclusive blind boxes or were part of collaborations that produced limited runs.
The gigantic $170,000 mint-green Labubu, for instance, is one of the rarest and most valuable figures ever auctioned.
If you want to get into collecting, keep an eye out for these rare finds. They often appreciate in value and become prized possessions within the Labubu community.
My personal experience: from skeptic to curious observer
I’ll be honest: I wasn’t interested in Labubus at all at first. I’d heard about the toys but never really cared—probably because in Europe, they’re not as easy to find.
Then I moved to Korea, and suddenly Labubu toys were everywhere—in shops, on backpacks, and on the streets.
Despite not being fully convinced, seeing them daily made me curious: why are Labubu toys so popular?
That curiosity is what I hope to spark in you with this post. Whether you end up loving Labubu or just understanding the hype, there’s no denying the cultural impact these little monsters have had.
An interesting question: Are Labubus evil?
Interestingly, some people jokingly (or seriously) claim that Labubus are “evil” or spooky creatures. Their mischievous grin and sharp teeth can give off a slightly sinister vibe, which has sparked fan theories about their “dark side.”
However, according to Labubu’s creators, the character isn’t intended to be demonic or evil. It’s more about playful mischief than malevolence. This opposing opinion adds a fun layer of depth and intrigue to the Labubu lore and keeps fan conversations lively.
How to start your Labubu toy collection
If you’re ready to dive in, here are 3 useful things what you should know:
Where to buy Labubu toys: You can find them in specialty stores, Pop Mart’s online shop, and reputable online marketplaces. Be cautious of fakes!
Blind box strategy: Since Labubus come in blind boxes, be prepared for surprises, and don’t hesitate to trade with other collectors.
Follow the community: Join fan groups on Instagram and TikTok to stay updated on rare drops and tips.
The ever-growing world of Labubu
I think it’s safe to say that in 2025, Labubu is more than just a toy—it’s a cultural phenomenon that has grown from a niche collectible to a global craze. Whether you find Labubu adorable, weird, or a little “evil,” there’s no denying the impact these little monsters have made.
If you’re curious about Labubu toys, now is the perfect time to learn, explore, and maybe even start your own collection. Who knows? Maybe one day you’ll own a rare Labubu worth thousands!
Explore more Asian curiosities
If you’re fascinated by Labubu and love discovering unique trends and tastes from Asia, check out these posts too:
- How to Make Bingsu: 3 Easy Korean Shaved Ice Recipes
- How to Make Hwachae: The Easiest Summer Snack You’ll Ever Try
What Do You Think About Labubu?
Now that you’ve gotten the full scoop on Labubu — from where it started to why it’s everywhere — I’m curious to hear what you think.
Do you find Labubu cute or kind of creepy? Are you already collecting Labubu toys, or just considering your first blind box? Maybe you’re still like me — unsure, but weirdly intrigued by their quirky charm?
Drop your thoughts in the comments below!
Have a favorite Labubu keychain on your bag? Tag us on Instagram or TikTok @oddlybalanced — we’d love to see your collection or first unboxing!
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Or email us anytime at info@oddlybalanced.com — especially if you’ve got questions or just want to geek out about toy culture.
Sources
- “Labubu,” Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Labubu
- Pop Mart official site: https://popmart.com
