Labubu Dolls: Unpacking the Hype, Collectibility, and Resale Market

Jul 18, 2025

The Labubu Doll Phenomenon: More Than Just a Toy

Labubu dolls have taken the collectible toy world by storm. Characterized by their mischievous grin, pointy ears, and distinctive features, these figures, created by Hong Kong-based artist Kasing Lung, have captivated collectors of all ages. This article delves into the Labubu craze, exploring its origins, design, collectibility factors, and the dynamic resale market that fuels its popularity.

A Brief History: From Monsters to Global Appeal

Kasing Lung's artistic journey began long before Labubu achieved mainstream recognition. Inspired by European folklore and fairy tales, Lung developed a world populated by endearing monsters and whimsical characters. Labubu, one of his early creations, evolved over time, eventually finding its form as the vinyl figure that collectors adore today. A pivotal partnership with toy company How2Work brought Labubu into the physical realm, paving the way for collaborations with Pop Mart, a key player in the blind box collectible market. This collaboration was instrumental in expanding Labubu's reach beyond Hong Kong and into international markets.

Understanding the Allure: Design and Character

What makes Labubu so appealing? Several factors contribute to its widespread popularity:

Unique Design: Labubu's distinctive features, including its playful expression, pointy elf-like ears, and slightly oversized head, make it instantly recognizable. The design strikes a balance between cute and mischievous, appealing to a broad audience.
Emotional Connection: Lung's characters often evoke feelings of nostalgia and innocence. Labubu's playful nature resonates with collectors who appreciate its lighthearted and whimsical personality.
Artistic Value: As a creation of a talented artist, Labubu is viewed as more than just a toy. Collectors appreciate the artistic skill and creativity that goes into each figure.
Blind Box Element: The blind box format, where the specific figure inside is unknown until opened, adds an element of surprise and excitement to the collecting experience. This fosters a sense of community as collectors trade and hunt for rare figures.

The Blind Box Experience: A Thrill of the Unknown

The success of Labubu is inextricably linked to the blind box format. This distribution method creates a unique and engaging collecting experience. Each box contains a randomly selected figure from a specific series. The rarity of each figure varies, with some being much harder to find than others. This rarity drives up the value of certain figures on the resale market.

Rarity Tiers and Secret Figures

Blind box series typically feature several rarity tiers. Common figures are readily available, while rare figures are much harder to obtain. The most sought-after figures are often the "secret" or "hidden" figures, which have a very low pull rate (sometimes as low as 1 in 144 boxes). The low probability of finding these figures significantly increases their desirability and resale value.

The Psychology of Blind Box Collecting

The blind box format taps into several psychological factors that drive collectibility. The element of surprise triggers a dopamine rush when opening each box. The potential to find a rare figure creates a sense of anticipation and excitement. The act of collecting and trading with other enthusiasts fosters a sense of community and belonging.

Collectibility Factors: What Drives Value?

Several factors influence the collectibility and value of Labubu dolls:

Rarity: As mentioned earlier, rarity is a major driver of value. Secret figures and limited-edition releases command the highest prices on the resale market.
Character Popularity: Certain Labubu designs and themes are more popular than others. Figures based on popular characters or collaborations tend to be more sought-after.
Condition: The condition of the figure and its original packaging significantly impacts its value. Figures in mint condition, with undamaged boxes, are worth more than those that are damaged or incomplete.
Series and Release Date: Older series and figures from limited-time collaborations often become more valuable over time as they become harder to find.
Artist Signature: Figures signed by Kasing Lung are highly prized by collectors and can fetch substantial premiums.

Navigating the Resale Market: Tips for Buying and Selling

The Labubu resale market is active and dynamic. Platforms like eBay, StockX, and specialized online forums are popular destinations for buying and selling Labubu dolls. However, navigating the resale market requires caution and research.

Tips for Buying:

Do Your Research: Before making a purchase, research the market value of the figure you are interested in. Compare prices from multiple sellers to get a sense of the average price.
Check Seller Reputation: Only buy from reputable sellers with positive feedback. Look for sellers who have a history of selling collectible toys and who are responsive to questions.
Examine Photos Carefully: Carefully examine the photos provided by the seller to assess the condition of the figure and its packaging. Look for any signs of damage or wear.
Ask Questions: Don't hesitate to ask the seller questions about the figure, its condition, and its authenticity.
Be Aware of Fakes: Counterfeit Labubu dolls are unfortunately prevalent. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true and carefully inspect the figure for any signs of being a fake.
Consider Grading: For high-value figures, consider purchasing graded items from reputable grading companies such as Beckett or PSA. Grading provides an objective assessment of the figure's condition and authenticity.

Tips for Selling:

Take High-Quality Photos: Take clear, well-lit photos of the figure from multiple angles. Show any imperfections or damage clearly.
Provide Accurate Descriptions: Provide a detailed and accurate description of the figure, including its series, condition, and any relevant information about its rarity.
Price Competitively: Research the market value of the figure and price it competitively. Be realistic about the potential selling price.
Offer Secure Shipping: Package the figure securely to prevent damage during shipping. Use tracking and insurance to protect yourself against loss or damage.
Be Responsive: Respond promptly to questions from potential buyers.
Use Reputable Platforms: Sell on reputable platforms that offer seller protection and dispute resolution services.

Spotting Fake Labubu Dolls: Red Flags to Watch Out For

The popularity of Labubu has unfortunately led to the rise of counterfeit figures. Spotting a fake can be tricky, but here are some red flags to watch out for:

Low Price: If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Fake Labubu dolls are often sold at significantly lower prices than authentic figures.
Poor Quality: Fake figures often have poor paint jobs, misaligned features, and inferior materials. The plastic may feel cheap or brittle.
Packaging Discrepancies: Examine the packaging carefully. Fake packaging may have misspellings, blurry images, or incorrect information.
Missing Details: Check for missing details, such as the Pop Mart logo, the Kasing Lung signature, or other identifying marks.
Incorrect Proportions: Compare the figure to photos of authentic Labubu dolls. Fake figures may have incorrect proportions or features.
Lack of Authenticity Certificate: Limited edition or special edition figures often come with an authenticity certificate. If a seller cannot provide this, it is a red flag.

Labubu and the Broader Art Toy Market

The Labubu craze is part of a larger trend in the art toy market. Art toys, also known as designer toys or urban vinyl, are collectible figures created by artists and designers. These toys are often produced in limited quantities and are highly sought-after by collectors. The art toy market has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by the increasing popularity of blind box collecting and the growing appreciation for art as a form of investment. Other popular art toy brands include Bearbrick, Sonny Angel, and POP MART's other popular figures.

The Future of Labubu: Trends and Predictions

What does the future hold for Labubu? Several trends and predictions can be made:

Continued Popularity: Labubu is likely to remain popular for the foreseeable future. The character's unique design, the engaging blind box format, and the strong community of collectors will continue to drive demand.
New Collaborations: Expect to see more collaborations between Kasing Lung and other artists and brands. These collaborations will introduce new Labubu designs and expand the character's reach to new audiences.
Expansion into New Product Categories: Labubu may expand into new product categories, such as apparel, accessories, and home goods. This would further solidify the character's brand and appeal to a wider audience.
Growth of the Resale Market: The Labubu resale market is likely to continue to grow as the character becomes more popular and as older figures become harder to find.
Increased Focus on Authenticity: As the resale market grows, there will be an increased focus on authenticity. Collectors will become more discerning and will demand greater assurance that they are buying genuine Labubu dolls.

Caring for Your Labubu Collection: Preservation Tips

Protecting your investment and ensuring your Labubu dolls remain in pristine condition requires proper care and storage:

Keep Them Away from Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause the colors to fade and the plastic to become brittle. Store your figures in a cool, dark place.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Avoid storing your figures in areas with extreme temperatures, such as attics or garages. Extreme temperatures can damage the plastic.
Dust Regularly: Dust your figures regularly with a soft cloth to prevent dust buildup.
Handle with Care: Handle your figures with care to avoid scratches or damage. Avoid dropping them or exposing them to rough surfaces.
Store in Protective Cases: Consider storing your figures in protective cases or display cabinets to protect them from dust, sunlight, and accidental damage.
Keep Original Packaging: If possible, keep the original packaging. The packaging can add value to the figure and provides additional protection.

Ethical Considerations: Responsible Collecting

As with any collectible item, it's important to approach Labubu collecting responsibly. Consider these ethical considerations:

Avoid Overspending: Set a budget for your collecting and stick to it. Avoid overspending or getting into debt.
Be Mindful of Resale Prices: While it's tempting to try to make a profit on the resale market, be mindful of the prices you charge. Avoid price gouging or exploiting other collectors.
Support Authentic Artists: Purchase your figures from reputable sources that support the artists and designers who create them.
Respect the Community: Treat other collectors with respect and avoid engaging in negative or harmful behavior.

Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of Labubu

The Labubu doll craze is more than just a fleeting trend. It's a testament to the power of art, design, and community. Labubu's unique charm, combined with the excitement of blind box collecting, has created a global phenomenon that is likely to endure. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out, the world of Labubu offers a delightful and engaging experience. By understanding the collectibility factors, navigating the resale market responsibly, and caring for your collection, you can fully appreciate the enduring appeal of these mischievous little figures.