The Labubu Frenzy: How a Toy Became a Global Collectible Craze
The Labubu Frenzy: How a Toy Became a Global Collectible Craze
From its roots in Hong Kong art to a $170,000 auction star, Labubu is one of the hottest collectibles on the planet. Here’s the story behind it, why it’s trending, alternatives you can collect, the risks of replicas — and how you can even sell your own Labubu collection on FijiPlaza.
The Origin of Labubu
Labubu was created in 2015 by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, inspired by Nordic folklore. The quirky, toothy creature debuted in The Monsters series and quickly gained a cult following. In 2019, Pop Mart adopted Labubu into its blind-box line, turning it into a global collectible phenomenon.
Today, over 300 versions exist, from small vinyl toys to giant four-foot statues. The demand is so strong that one mint-green Labubu sold for $170,000 at auction in Beijing this year.
Why Labubu is Trending
The craze skyrocketed when BLACKPINK’s Lisa was spotted with a Labubu keychain, sparking a wave of celebrity fandom. Soon, Rihanna, Kim Kardashian, and Dua Lipa were seen with Labubu merch, turning the oddball toy into a fashion statement.
The Market Impact
- Pop Mart’s profits quadrupled thanks to Labubu’s popularity.
- International demand caused restock riots, long queues, and even thefts of entire Labubu shipments.
- Some stores had to suspend sales just to manage the frenzy.
Alternatives to Labubu
If Labubu is out of stock (or too expensive), fans also collect other characters from The Monsters universe:
- Zimomo — calm and mystical.
- Mokoko — pink, round, and playful.
- Seasonal Labubu collabs also offer unique, affordable variations.
Beware of Replicas
With popularity comes fakes. Knockoffs known as “Lafufu” have flooded the market, often unsafe for kids. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission even warned about counterfeit Labubus posing choking hazards.
