A Toy with Teeth: What Are Labubu Dolls?
Labubu Dolls are not your average plush toy. With elf-like ears, wide eyes, and a signature toothy grin featuring exactly nine sharp teeth, these quirky characters have become a global fashion statement, collector’s item, and social media sensation.
The toy was first introduced in 2015 by Hong Kong-Belgian artist Kasing Lung as part of his graphic novel series The Monsters.
Pop Mart and the Blind Box Frenzy
In 2019, Chinese collectibles giant Pop Mart began producing Labubu dolls in blind-box format, where buyers don’t know which design they’ll get until unboxing. The element of surprise, combined with rare “secret” editions, has fueled a collector frenzy.
Celebrity Power and Viral Fame
Labubu exploded in popularity in early 2024 when BLACKPINK’s Lisa was spotted with one attached to her handbag. Shortly after, stars like Rihanna, Madonna, and David Beckham followed suit, sparking long lines and even crowd control issues at global Pop Mart stores.
Chaos in Stores, Shift to Online Sales
From Bangkok to Austin, the demand has been so intense that Pop Mart has temporarily suspended in-store sales in some regions, including the UK, to avoid stampedes. Official sales continue through online platforms.
Collectors Go Wild: Dolls Fetch Six Figures
Labubu figures range in size from small keychain charms to giant 31-inch and even 4-foot figures. In one instance, a mint-green 4-foot Labubu sold for a jaw-dropping $170,000 in Beijing, cementing its place in high-end collectible culture.
Counterfeit Concerns: Beware the “Lafufu”
Soaring demand has led to a flood of counterfeits—dubbed Lafufu. To authenticate a real Labubu:
- Count nine teeth
- Look for matte packaging with a QR code
- Check for a UV stamp on the foot
Collectors are advised to buy only from verified sellers or platforms like StockX.
More Than a Toy: A Cultural Phenomenon
Labubu’s appeal now spans fashion, pop culture, and sports. Fans customize their dolls, swap versions in forums, and even use them as meaningful gifts, like the one tennis star Zheng Qinwen gave to Carlos Alcaraz at Wimbledon.
Final Thoughts: What Makes Labubu Dolls So Popular?
Labubu combines nostalgic design, celebrity clout, the thrill of blind-box surprises, and viral social media trends. Whether you’re a casual buyer or a hardcore collector, understanding the Labubu craze—and how to spot the real deal—has become essential in today’s toy culture.
