labubu Craze 2025: Why Everyone Is Obsessed with This Toy

Meet Labubu, the mischievous, pointy-toothed doll that’s become the world’s most wanted collectible toy. Once a character in a 2015 picture book by artist Kasing Lung, Labubu’s rise to fame exploded after a partnership with Chinese toy giant Pop Mart.

In 2019, Pop Mart launched Labubu blind boxes, where buyers don’t know which figurine they’ll get. The mystery, combined with ultra-rare variants, fueled a frenzy. Now, over 300 Labubu styles exist, including limited editions tied to brands like Uniqlo, Sacai, and Coca-Cola.

What makes Labubu so valuable?

• A human-sized Labubu recently sold for over $200,000 CAD at a Beijing auction.

• A special edition by Pharrell Williams x Seventeen x Sacai sold for $31,250.

• Celebrities like Rihanna, Lisa from BlackPink, David Beckham, and Cher have all been seen with one.

Labubu isn't just a toy, it's a fashion statement, a luxury flex, and a collector’s dream.

The Hype and the Hunt

Each Thursday, Pop Mart drops new Labubus online and in stores. They sell out within seconds, with prices starting at around $35 and reselling for hundreds or thousands. In Canada and other countries without official Pop Mart stores, the demand is even more intense.

Knockoffs and Lafufu

Can’t get your hands on a real Labubu? You’re not alone.

The craze has spawned a wave of knockoffs known as “Lafufu.” These cheaper versions are often misshapen or misprinted, but some fans say that’s part of the fun. The “ugly-cute” Lafufu trend now has its own niche online following.

From children's book character to $38 billion toy empire, Labubu is more than just a plush toy, it's a cultural phenomenon blending art, fashion, mystery, and hype.

FAQS

Q1: What is Labubu?

A: Labubu is a collectible character originally created by artist Kasing Lung in 2015. It became globally popular after Pop Mart launched a line of surprise "blind box" Labubu toys.

Q2: Why is Labubu so popular?

A: Labubu’s quirky design, limited editions, surprise packaging, and celebrity endorsements from stars like Rihanna, Cher, and BlackPink's Lisa have made it a viral and highly sought-after collectible.

Q3: How much does a Labubu cost?

A: Retail prices for Labubu blind boxes range from $35 to $130, but rare editions can sell for thousands on resale markets. One giant Labubu recently sold for over $200,000 CAD at auction.