With their wild hair, toothy grins, and somewhat menacing appeal, Labubus have emerged as stars in the world of collectible figures. Created by Hong Kong illustrator Kasing Lung and produced by the renowned Chinese designer toy company Pop Mart, these quirky characters are not your average collectibles; they embody a unique charm that has captivated collectors worldwide.
The phenomenon surrounding Labubu has exploded, driven by blind box unboxings, social media hype, and a swiftly expanding community of collectors. Although Labubu initially found its niche in the art toy market, it has now become a mainstream obsession.
Celebrities such as Lisa from Blackpink, Rihanna, and Dua Lipa have embraced these whimsical dolls, further fueling their popularity. With dedicated pop-up shops and specialty retailers often selling out within hours, collectors are turning to online groups filled with trading posts, unboxing videos, and tips for identifying the rarest variants.
Trevor White, the manager at Luxury Box ATL, noted, “We’ve had a lot of repeat customers. I’ve seen some people buy 12 Labubus at a time. They want one of each color.”
The excitement surrounding the Labubu craze has fostered a robust community, with some collectors willing to camp out overnight for the chance to snag the dolls at the grand openings of stores.
“It’s amazing to see the lengths people go to for these dolls,” White observed.
Holly Eubanks, a tattoo artist from Cloak and Draugr in Roswell, has tattooed more than 90 Labubu designs at her clients’ requests, demonstrating the toy’s influence beyond just collecting.
“There’s a unique energy around these figures,” Eubanks explained. “People appreciate their art style and often want to commemorate that connection in a new way.”
The allure of Labubus extends to various fan-engaged activities, including exchanges and collaboration projects among collectors. One notable aspect is the rarity of specific Labubu variants, which can significantly heighten their desirability and, consequently, their market value.
According to experts, an authentic Labubu will present nine distinct teeth, a hallmark that collectors are keen to identify when hunting rare versions.
As the market grows, so too do the challenges of authenticity, with some consumers navigating a landscape littered with faux versions and counterfeit products. As such, savvy collectors have developed a keen eye for spotting the genuine articles.
Pop Mart’s new store locations have become hotspots, drawing avid collectors eager to add authentic Labubus to their collections. A recent opening in Las Vegas attracted hundreds of fans, some of whom waited overnight in anticipation of purchasing these trending collectibles, which often sell out quickly online.
An avid collector named Yasmine, who waited hours to get inside, declared, “It’s worth every minute! I love how expressive each Labubu figure is. They all have their unique personalities.”
The popularity of Labubu has outstripped many traditional collectibles, marking a shift in how art toys are perceived in popular culture. While once considered niche items, the dolls are now highly sought after by both casual fans and serious collectors alike.
For those eager to dive into collecting Labubus, social media platforms have become essential resources. Groups dedicated to trading and sharing information about the dolls have sprung up, allowing enthusiasts to discuss tips on identifying rare pieces, share unboxing adventures, and even facilitate trades.
Moreover, the rise in Labubu’s popularity also reflects a broader trend within the art toy scene, where crossover with mainstream celebrity culture has become increasingly prevalent.
One interesting aspect of the Labubu phenomenon is the artistic style employed by Kasing Lung. His work often fuses playful designs with a hint of the grotesque, embodying a modern sensibility that resonates with a diverse audience.
Eubanks suggested that this unique artistic approach is what draws so many fans to Labubus, saying, “The mix of cute and creepy really speaks to a lot of people. It can be a conversation starter.”
With thousands of fans actively sharing their collections online, the Labubu community thrives on interaction and engagement. New Art Toy exhibitions have started showcasing these figures, elevating their status even further within contemporary art circles.
As the collecting culture surrounding Labubus continues to evolve, so does the market, with initial offerings often skyrocketing in resale value when they feature rare or exclusive variants. It has become common for devoted collectors to pay significantly more for the limited-edition pieces that Pop Mart releases.
The rapid rise in popularity has also prompted concerns about the environmental impact of producing such toys. Many companies are beginning to explore eco-friendly production methods as the backlash of consumer awareness grows regarding sustainability in the collectibles market.
Luxury Box ATL and similar retailers are responding to the demand by ensuring that they have a steady supply of authentic Labubus available to meet eager collectors’ needs. However, as White notes, “The demand is so high that even when we restock, our shelves are empty almost immediately.”
The Labubu craze shows no signs of abating, with collectors not only expanding their collections but also embracing the community around these dolls. Whether through social media engagement, artistic expressions like tattoos, or simply as a way to connect with others who share their interests, Labubus have carved their niche in popular culture, leaving an indelible mark in the hearts of many.
As this trend continues, only time will tell how the market will adapt and how collectors navigate the evolving landscape of Labubu dolls.
image source from：ajc
