Labubu is the latest character taking over the collectible world. If you have spent any time on TikTok, Instagram, or in a POP MART store, you have probably seen this small, wide-eyed creature with tall ears and a mischievous smile. What started as a character sketch by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung has turned into one of the most recognizable blind box collectibles in the world.
Labubu’s rise has been fast and global. The character sits at the center of today’s designer toy movement, where art, lifestyle, and collecting all meet. Labubu has become a staple for unboxing creators, a favorite among POP MART fans, and a growing presence in the resale market.
For new collectors, the appeal is obvious. Labubu has a distinct look, an expanding list of themed series, and a blind box format that makes every pull a surprise. For experienced collectors and StockX regulars, Labubu offers rarity, chase figures, and a secondary market that has evolved over the past year, especially as prices have come down and more figures can now be found below retail.
Whether you are here to understand why Labubu is suddenly everywhere, how blind box collecting works, or how to buy Labubu safely without worrying about counterfeits, this guide breaks everything down in a clear and accessible way. And if you want to start collecting with confidence, StockX offers verified Labubu figures and real time market pricing so you always know exactly what you are getting.
What Is Labubu and Where Did It Come From
Labubu is a character created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, who is known for blending cute and eerie elements into a distinct illustration style. Labubu first appeared in Lung’s world called The Monsters, where it quickly became one of the most recognizable characters thanks to its tall ears, round eyes, and signature nine sharp teeth. Before becoming a global collectible, early Labubu figures were produced in small batches with boutique art toy makers. These limited releases were difficult to get, often hand finished, and highly sought after by dedicated collectors. The scarcity and unique design helped build early hype around the character. Labubu reached a wider audience when POP MART partnered with Kasing Lung and turned the character into a full blind box series. The collaboration preserved the artistic style while scaling production, adding themed sets, and introducing secret rare figures. This combination of art, storytelling, and blind box excitement helped Labubu grow from a niche favorite into an international collectible.
Why Labubu Became So Popular
There are several reasons Labubu gained so much attention and search interest around the world.
- The design is unique. Collectors love the wide eyes, big ears, and signature nine teeth.
- Blind boxes keep people engaged because every pull is a surprise.
- POP MART releases many limited editions and secret figures that are extremely hard to find.
- Labubu became a social media trend. Influencers display the toys in setups with streetwear, accessories, and lifestyle content.
- The resale market grew fast which increased demand even more.
All of this helped Labubu grow from a niche art toy into a global collectible.
Why Labubu Can Be Expensive
A common search question is why Labubu figures cost so much. Retail prices for blind boxes are usually affordable, but the resale market is different. So why do Labubus cost so much? Here are the main reasons:
- Rare or secret editions are very limited and often sell for much more than retail.
- Many releases are region specific or sell out instantly, which increases scarcity.
- Collectors who want to complete a full set may pay more for individual pieces.
- Some buyers purchase blind boxes in bulk to chase rare pulls which drives demand.
It is important to note that many Labubu figures on StockX currently sell for below retail. This makes StockX a smart option for new collectors who want to start their collection without overspending.
The Labubu Controversy
The rise of Labubu has also led to a few controversies that collectors should be aware of.
- Counterfeit Labubu figures have become common in some markets.
- Some stores outside of official POP MART channels have accidentally sold fake versions.
- High demand has led to long lines and chaotic releases in certain regions.
- Some people criticize blind boxes for encouraging shoppers to overspend while chasing rare figures.
Because of these issues, buying from a platform with verification has become a priority for many collectors.
How To Tell if Your Labubu Is Real
Counterfeits are a real problem, but there are reliable ways to identify authentic Labubu figures.
- Authentic Labubu figures have exactly nine sharp teeth.
- The packaging should include clear POP MART branding and correct printing.
- Newer boxes include verification stickers, QR codes, or holograms.
- Real figures have clean paint, high-quality molding, and accurate color details.
- The safest way to avoid fakes is to shop on platforms that verify, such as StockX.
At StockX, every Labubu figure is verified. Our team checks packaging, printing, materials, paint quality, and edition details. Only items that pass these checks are shipped to buyers.
Where To Buy Labubu in the USA
Labubu can be purchased in several ways, although availability varies.
- POP MART has official stores in the United States.
- The POP MART USA website offers select drops and restocks.
- Some specialty stores carry limited quantities.
- Many collectors buy and sell on resale platforms.
If you want to avoid counterfeits and overspending, buying on StockX is one of the best options. StockX offers verified products, transparent pricing based on real market data, and listings that include items priced below retail. This removes the risk and uncertainty that often comes with secondhand marketplaces.
What Makes Labubu Special
Labubu stands out by bringing together art, character design, and the excitement of blind-box collecting in a way that feels fresh and personal. Each series tells its own small story, from fantasy themes to seasonal releases, and every figure shows off the expressive style that made Kasing Lung’s work so popular in the first place. The result is a collectible that feels both artistic and playful, appealing equally to casual fans and longtime collectors.
At StockX, we see this appeal firsthand through the buying and selling trends on our platform. Labubu consistently ranks among the most-traded collectibles, with popular series such as Big Into Energy, Pin for Love, and the 1:00 A.M. series moving quickly through the marketplace. Many of these releases are also trending below retail, providing new collectors with an affordable entry point while still offering rare editions for more dedicated fans.
We love Labubu because it represents what makes the collectible world exciting. There is creativity, surprise, and community all built into one character. Whether someone is chasing a secret pull or simply looking for a figure that makes them smile, Labubu delivers a sense of discovery that keeps collectors coming back. It is this combination of art, personality, and accessibility that continues to drive Labubu’s growth on StockX and worldwide.
