From street fashion to six-figure art auctions — this mischievous little monster is more than just a plush toy.
What Exactly is Labubu — and Why Is Everyone Obsessed?
Is it a monster? A gremlin? A plushie with an attitude?
Labubu is the latest collectible craze storming the streets of Shanghai, Paris, Los Angeles — and yes, your Instagram feed. Whether clipped to bags, featured in fashion shoots, or spotted at protests (!), this scruffy little creature with a toothy grin is showing up everywhere.
Originally created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, Labubu first came to life in his 2015 storybook series The Monsters. But what started as whimsical Nordic-inspired elf tales has now exploded into one of the hottest fashion-art crossover phenomena — all thanks to a collaboration with Chinese toy giant POP MART.
Blind Boxes, Big Hype — What You Get
Labubu is most commonly found in blind boxes — small sealed packages where the figure inside is a total mystery until you open it. Here’s what makes it fun:
- 🧸 Each box contains one random figure from the Big into Energy Series
- 🎉 Total of 6 designs + a rare “secret edition” (1 in 72 chance!)
- 🧍 About 6.7 inches tall — perfect as a keychain, shelf collectible, or gift
- 🧪 Made with high-quality PVC, ABS, and non-toxic paint
💡 Hot Tip: Buy the full set if you don’t want duplicates — but even then, there’s no guarantee of scoring the secret figure.
From Storybook Mischief to Street Style Statement
Labubu isn’t just another plush toy. It’s become a cultural icon.
Worn by celebrities like Dua Lipa and Lisa from BLACKPINK, Labubu has gone from underground art toy to mainstream fashion accessory. It’s been featured at Paris fashion weeks, Pride parades, and even anti-ICE protests in the U.S.
Last month? A life-size Labubu sold at auction in China for over $170,000.
Not bad for a fuzzy little troublemaker.
Why Adults Are Hooked
Remember digging through cereal boxes for secret toys? Or the thrill of Pokémon cards?
Labubu taps into the same nostalgia-meets-now energy.
According to toy historian Michelle Parnett-Dwyer, blind boxes offer “a simple joy rooted in mystery and chance” — something modern consumers crave more than ever. Especially in a world dominated by screens, physical play and collection are making a major comeback.
Labubu isn’t just cute — it’s emotional.
The Secret Power of Labubu
So, what’s the secret behind its rise?
🪄 It’s the surprise — and the story behind it.
🖤 It’s imperfect, playful, and real.
🎨 It’s art that you can hold, wear, and feel.
Where to Buy (and What to Watch Out For)
- Retail price: ~$27.99 per blind box
- Resale price: Up to $150+ for rare figures
- Warning: Counterfeits — aka “Lafufus” — are everywhere. Stick to official POP MART stores or licensed resellers.
Labubu is more than just a plush doll. It’s a symbol of how play, art, and emotion can collide in the most unexpected places.
So whether you’re looking to decorate your desk, surprise a friend, or just spark some childhood joy — maybe it’s time to open a blind box.
You never know what magic might be waiting inside.
BOTTALINK 