Labubu Doll: Why This Cute Monster Toy Is Taking Over the World

If you’ve been on TikTok, walked through a trendy mall, or scrolled resale sites recently, chances are you’ve seen a curious little monster with pointy ears and a mischievous grin. That is the Labubu Doll, a quirky blind-box collectible from Chinese toy company Pop Mart. At first glance, it may look strange—even a little creepy—but this tiny figure has become a global obsession.

What started as a $30 toy is now an international status symbol, featured on celebrity handbags and fetching thousands of dollars in resale markets. In 2024 alone, Labubu generated more than $423 million in revenue, proving it is more than just another passing trend. Let’s dive deep into how this monster doll captured the hearts of millions worldwide.

Quick Bio Information

• Name: Labubu Doll

• Creator: Artist Kasing Lung

• Company: Pop Mart, founded by Wang Ning

• First Release: 2019 under Pop Mart’s “The Monsters” series

• Retail Price: Around $30 per doll

• Revenue Impact: $423 million in 2024

• Unique Feature: Blind-box collectible with mystery unboxing

• Community: 145,000+ Reddit members and 1M+ TikTok videos

• Celebrity Endorsements: Lisa (Blackpink), Lizzo, Rihanna

• Market Status: Fashion accessory, collectible, and cultural symbol

What Is a Labubu Doll?

A Labubu Doll is not your typical plush or action figure. Created as part of a blind-box collectible series, it is designed with large pointed ears, serrated teeth, and a playful smile. Each doll comes in sealed packaging, so buyers do not know which version they will get until they open it. This mystery element has become a big part of the fun, making every purchase feel like a surprise.

Pop Mart has produced hundreds of Labubu variations. Some are simple in design, while others are rare editions with special colors, glitter, or costumes. Because of their limited nature, many Labubus sell out within minutes, creating a sense of urgency among fans and collectors alike.

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The Origins Of Labubu: From Picture Book To Global Icon

The story of the Labubu Doll begins with Kasing Lung, a Hong Kong–born artist who created a picture book series called The Monsters. One of his characters, Labubu, stood out with its unusual charm. Pop Mart saw potential and partnered with Lung in 2019 to transform the character into a collectible toy.

This move proved to be groundbreaking. The first Labubu series broke sales records for Pop Mart in the art toy category, turning the quirky character into a household name among collectors. What started as a children’s book figure soon became the foundation of one of the most successful toy lines in the world.

How Pop Mart Built A Billion-Dollar Brand

Pop Mart itself has a fascinating journey. Founded in 2010 by Wang Ning in Beijing, the company started as a small variety store selling accessories and novelty items. Wang had an eye for trends and quickly realized the potential of collectible toys. By 2016, Pop Mart had expanded into online retail, and in 2020, it went public in Hong Kong with a valuation of $6.9 billion.

Today, Pop Mart operates over 500 stores worldwide, including more than 90 in the United States. Its vending machines, often placed in shopping malls, are especially popular because they make buying blind-box toys quick and exciting. With a current market cap of more than $43 billion, Pop Mart has grown larger than traditional giants like Mattel and Hasbro.

Why Labubu Dolls Became A Status Symbol

At first, Labubu was just a collectible. But over time, it turned into something bigger—a fashion statement and cultural symbol. People began attaching the dolls to purses, backpacks, belt loops, and even dog harnesses. Fans often dressed them up with tiny hats, sunglasses, or miniature outfits.

Owning a rare Labubu soon became a marker of exclusivity. Just as luxury handbags or sneakers represent taste and status, Labubu Dolls started to signal fashion sense and individuality. This transformation was key to the toy’s rise as a worldwide craze.

Celebrity Endorsements That Changed Everything

One of the biggest boosts for Labubu came in April 2024 when Lalisa “Lisa” Manoban from the K-Pop group Blackpink was spotted with a Labubu hanging from her purse. Fans rushed to copy her style, and the doll suddenly became one of the hottest accessories of the year.

Other celebrities soon followed. Lizzo and Rihanna were both seen carrying Labubu Dolls, reinforcing their image as trendy and must-have items. With that kind of exposure, Labubu leapt from being a niche collectible to a fashion-forward phenomenon.

The Power Of Community: Fans, Collectors, And TikTok

The rise of Labubu is not only about celebrities—it’s also about the fans. On TikTok, more than a million videos feature the dolls in unboxing clips, styling tips, or collection showcases. On Reddit, the Labubu community has grown to more than 145,000 members who trade, share, and celebrate their collections.

In June 2025, a Labubu fashion show was even held in New York City’s Washington Square Park. Fans strutted down the sidewalks showing off their dolls attached to handbags and clothing. Events like this prove that Labubu is no longer just a toy but part of a lifestyle.

Inside The Numbers: Labubu’s $423 Million Success

Behind the cuteness is a serious business story. Pop Mart’s global revenue in 2024 was about $1.8 billion, with profits reaching $460 million. Of that, Labubu alone accounted for $423 million, marking a 729% increase from 2023.

Most of Pop Mart’s revenue still comes from Asia, particularly mainland China, which contributed $1.1 billion. However, international sales are growing rapidly as Labubu gains popularity in the United States and Europe. These numbers confirm that Labubu is not just a fad—it is one of the most profitable toy brands in the world.

The Resale Frenzy: Labubus Worth Hundreds Or Thousands

Part of Labubu’s appeal comes from the secondary market. While a doll might cost only $30 at retail, rare editions can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars online. Websites like StockX and eBay are filled with listings, and collectors are often willing to pay premium prices to complete their sets.

The craze has also led to a rise in counterfeits. Fake Labubus—sometimes called “Lafufus”—are appearing on sites like Amazon and AliExpress. While these knockoffs may look similar, true collectors value authenticity and are often quick to call out fakes.

Why People Love Labubu: More Than Just A Toy

What makes Labubu special is that it appeals to so many different groups. Parents buy them for children because they are playful and fun. Fashion lovers use them as quirky accessories to showcase their individuality. Collectors see them as investments, hoping to resell rare versions for profit.

But beyond these practical reasons, fans often talk about the emotional connection they feel. Labubu’s odd yet cute appearance is unlike other toys. The character’s unique personality and the excitement of unboxing a mystery box make owning a Labubu feel personal and memorable.

Challenges Ahead: Can The Craze Last?

Of course, no trend is guaranteed to last forever. The toy market has seen many crazes—from Beanie Babies to fidget spinners—that eventually lost their appeal. Some worry that Labubu could face the same fate if interest fades or if Pop Mart produces too many versions too quickly.

Counterfeits are another challenge, as they can hurt consumer trust. At the same time, rising resale prices sometimes frustrate new fans who cannot afford to buy rare editions. For Pop Mart, the challenge will be keeping the brand fresh without oversaturating the market.

Pop Mart’s Future Plans And Global Expansion

Despite these challenges, Pop Mart seems prepared. The company continues to open more international stores and vending machines, bringing Labubu to new audiences. It is also expanding partnerships with artists to create additional characters beyond Labubu.

Pop Mart executives say their mission is to build a brand for longevity. They want to create a universe of collectible characters that will keep fans engaged for years to come. If they succeed, Labubu may not be just a short-term craze but the beginning of a new era in collectible culture.

Conclusion: The Monster That Stole The World’s Heart

The story of the Labubu Doll is more than just about a toy—it is about how culture, fashion, and community collide to create a global movement. From its humble beginnings in a picture book to becoming a $423 million product, Labubu has proven that even the strangest little monsters can win people’s hearts.

Whether it will remain a long-lasting icon or fade like past toy crazes remains to be seen. But for now, the Labubu Doll is one of the most unique cultural symbols of our time, combining art, fashion, and fandom in a way few toys ever have.

FAQs About Labubu Doll

What is a Labubu Doll?
A Labubu Doll is a collectible toy designed by Pop Mart and artist Kasing Lung. It features a playful monster with pointy ears and a mischievous grin, sold in blind boxes so the exact design is a surprise.

How much does a Labubu Doll cost?
Most Labubu Dolls retail for about $30, though rare editions can cost hundreds or even thousands on resale markets like eBay or StockX.

Why are Labubu Dolls so popular?
They combine mystery unboxing, unique design, and celebrity endorsements. Fans also love styling and customizing them, which adds to their cultural appeal.

Who created the Labubu Doll?
Labubu was originally a character in artist Kasing Lung’s picture book The Monsters. Pop Mart partnered with him in 2019 to create the toy series.

Where can I buy a Labubu Doll?
They are sold in Pop Mart stores, online shops, and vending machines worldwide. However, due to high demand, they often sell out quickly.

Are there fake Labubu Dolls?
Yes. Counterfeit versions, sometimes called “Lafufus,” are sold on websites like Amazon and AliExpress. Collectors recommend buying only from official Pop Mart retailers.

Will Labubu Dolls stay popular?
Trends can fade, but Pop Mart is working to expand globally and create new characters. With strong fan support and cultural relevance, Labubu has the potential to last.