Created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung and brought to worldwide attention by Chinese toymaker Pop Mart, these collectible figures have transformed from simple illustrations into a cultural phenomenon.
Labubus are primarily sold in blind boxes, meaning buyers never know which version they will get. This element of surprise has turned collecting into a thrilling hobby, where scarcity and rare editions drive demand. Beyond their collectible value, Labubus have also become fashion accessories, appearing as keychains and bag charms, and even as status symbols among young collectors.
Ms. Molloy, Biology and Anatomy Physiology Honors teacher, is a Labubu lover. According to her, “I have two. I have one in my bag and one in class. They’re so ugly they’re cute.”
Several factors explain the meteoric rise of Labubus. The original design’s charm, combined with Pop Mart’s strategic blind-box marketing, created instant appeal. Social media played a major role: unboxing videos on TikTok and celebrity sightings with Labubus, including stars like Lisa from Blackpink, fueled global interest. Scarcity and exclusivity make each figure highly coveted, turning casual fans into dedicated collectors.
According to the Pop Mart official website, Labubus can reach $300.00, that explains the emersion of Lafufus, a cheaper imitation of the little monsters, that can cost $30.00 according to Amazon website. While official Labubus are sold at standard market prices through Pop Mart or authorized stores, Lafufu dolls often appear at lower prices online or from street vendors.
Kekoa Papo, Junior, what she most like about Labubus is the variety of them and how you can dress them up in different outfits.
“I have two Labubus that I got during the summer. I like Labubus because they are a surprise and I can dress them up in cute outfits,” says Papo.
Beyond cost, and the difference between the “F” and “B” spelling, authentic Labubus feature precise details, high-quality materials, and official verification tags, while Lafufu may have rougher plush or misaligned paint. For collectors, owning a genuine Labubu represents status, community recognition, and investment value, while Lafufu dolls, despite sometimes looking convincing, lack the authenticity that makes the originals so desirable.
Labubus are more than toys, they reflect contemporary culture, where collectibles, fashion, and social status intersect. From their playful origins to their place in global pop culture, Labubus demonstrates how a small, quirky figure can become a symbol of creativity, identity, and connection in the digital age.