Why Everyone Is Obsessed with Labubu Right Now

The labubu was originally just an ordinary vinyl plastic doll with a relatively low cost. However, at a recent auction, a giant labubu was sold for an astonishing 1.08 million RMB(about $150k). 

This made me wonder, how could it manage to contribute a significant portion to the market value of a company worth several billions, why are celebrities so obsessed with it? Why does it frequently pop up while scrolling TikTok? 

I didn’t expect to get hooked. I thought Labubu was just another odd little figure I saw online. Big eyes, tiny fangs. But when I saw people lining up overnight, paying hundreds (sometimes thousands!) for these creatures, I had to find out more. Then what I discovered blew my mind: Labubu isn’t just a viral toy. It’s a fashion statement, an emotional comfort, and for some — a smart investment.In this article, Let’s learn about why Labubu became such a sensation, how to buy one without getting scammed and even make money with it. 

From Designer Toy to Fashion Must-Have

Consumer Psychology Meets Toy Marketing: What Makes Labubu So Addictive?

To understand Labubu’s success, we first need to look at its roots. Created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, Labubu started as a character in storybooks, then became a collectible doll through Pop Mart in 2019.

Pop Mart has launched blind-box drops, secret editions, and randomized packaging, the thrill of unboxing plays right into behavioral marketing and consumer gamification all these factors contributed to Labubu's success.

Celebrity Influence & Viral Growth: Entertainment Marketing Power

But it didn’t explode until much later. After BLACKPINK’s Lisa was spotted with one, things snowballed. Before long, celebrities like Rihanna were flaunting Labubu on bags and jackets. Social media followed fast — with millions of unboxing videos and fan edits now flooding TikTok and Instagram.

Why People Really Love Labubu

If you are someone who has absolutely no interest in dolls, you might just consider the popularity of labubu as a mere spectacle. But why has labubu gained such wide popularity among so many people? Let's analyze the reasons.

Labubu fits right into the trend of ''ugly-cute" design — weird enough to stand out, but cute enough to love. Beyond the appearance, why are people so hooked?

A curator at the Strong Museum of Play in Rochester, New YorkMichelle Parnett-Dwyer said :" I think there's a lot of things where the popularity among adults or young adults stems from childhood nostalgia," ," I think play is crucial for everybody at all ages. It helps us to engage with each other. It helps us in a way — it's a cliché — but it helps us to stay young," she said.

It’s more than a toy. It’s an emotional comfort, a fashion piece, a gamified purchase, and a conversation starter — all wrapped up in one pocket-sized monster.

In a fast, stressful world, Labubu offers a bit of playful chaos. And maybe, that’s exactly what people are looking for. 

The Surprising Investment Side of Labubu.

Now let’s talk money. Although it's just a doll, Labubu is so popular. Can we afford it?

Labubu may sell for just $25 at retail, but on the resale market, prices can skyrocket. 

 In June 2025, a giant Labubu sold at auction in Beijing for ¥1.08 million (US $150K).

This has turned Labubu from a cute collectible into a hot alternative investment. Some collectors treat it like others treat rare sneakers or art.

What makes them valuable? Rarity, limited runs, hidden "secret" editions, and strong fan demand.

When Popularity Becomes Chaos

Of course, with popularity comes problems. 

As Labubu mania spread across the UK, Australia, and parts of Asia, fans lined up in droves at Pop Mart stores. Some releases led to stampedes, crowd control issues, and even safety shutdowns. In fact, Pop Mart paused in-store sales in the UK and South Korea after overwhelming demand and safety risk.

Hype fuels demand, but it can also push prices and frustration through the roof.

So… Want to Buy One?

If all this makes you curious, here’s how to join the club — smartly.

1. Official drops: Use the Pop Mart app or visit stores. Just be quick — they sell out fast. 

2. Resale markets: Try StockX, eBay, or Mercari. Just beware of fakes (called "Lafufus"). 

3. Overseas trick: Use proxy buying services (e.g.,japan rabbit, ZenMarket). 

Search for "Labubu モンスターズ" or "ラブブ" on Japanese sites.

Pro Tip: Add "sealed" or "未開封" (unopened) to your search to avoid used items. Stick to verified sellers. Look for ones with original barcodes.

Or maybe you can earn money with Labubu

Customization Services – Repaint/Modify Figures:

Fee varies between $30–220+ per figure.

Content Creation:

Offers live unboxing videos with "luck tactics" to engage viewers.

Final Thoughts: Is Labubu a Fad or the Future? 

Labubu is no longer just a cute toy on a shelf. It’s a symbol of youth culture, a viral product, and a successful business move. The heat may subside, but Labubu will not disappear, instead, it is likely to persist for a long time.