Labubu is not just a little figure—it has grown into a worldwide collectible with an almost cult-like following. From TikTok trends to limited edition drops: the rise of Labubu is unprecedented. In this blog, you will discover where the hype comes from, why the figures are so popular, and what sets them apart from other collectibles.
The origin of Labubu: from art to mainstream
Labubu was designed by the artist Kasing Lung, known for his mysterious, fairy-tale style. Originally, Labubu was part of an alternative fantasy world, but through collaboration with Pop Mart, the figure gained worldwide distribution. Since then, the monsters have become an inseparable part of street culture and the art toy community.
Why Labubu is such a hype on social media
The aesthetic of Labubu—cute, grim, and unique—fits perfectly with the visual preferences of Gen Z. On platforms like TikTok and Instagram, unboxing videos of limited editions go viral, and hashtags like #LabubuUnboxing or #PopMartLabubu attract hundreds of thousands of views. The combination of mystery, scarcity, and recognizability makes Labubu perfectly shareable. Many fans even show their entire collection in videos, which leads to FOMO among viewers.
Exclusivity: the engine behind the hype
A large part of the appeal lies in scarcity. Some editions, such as the collab with Pronounce or the Tasty Macarons series, are extremely limited and sold only through blind boxes. This ‘lottery system’ intensifies the collecting urge because you never know which figure you will get. This leads to trading behavior, marketplace activity, and even resale at high prices.
Collaborations with fashion and streetwear brands
What makes Labubu even more interesting is its connection to the fashion world. Think of collaborations with streetwear brands, high-end collections, and even clothing lines based on Labubu's character design. This allows Labubu to reach an audience that normally collects sneakers, art, and clothing. It is no longer a children's toy—it has become a lifestyle object.
Collectible value and investment
Besides the creative and visual aspect, there is also a financial side to the hype. Some Labubu figures are resold for hundreds of euros, especially if they are still sealed. On auction sites, you can see certain releases doubling in price within a few months. This makes Labubu attractive for collectors and investors alike.
Want to know which Labubu is the rarest? We also wrote an extensive blog about that.
Labubu vs. other Pop Mart figures
What makes Labubu unique compared to other Pop Mart releases like Molly or Dimoo is its raw, innocent, and rebellious look all at once. While other figures remain cute, Labubu balances between playful and dark, appealing to a broader audience, from young to adult.
The future of Labubu: hype or lasting?
The big question: is Labubu a temporary trend, or is the brand building something lasting? Given the artistic value, worldwide fanbase, and commercial collaborations, the latter seems more likely. Labubu is firmly establishing itself in the world of design toys, comparable to brands like Bearbrick or KAWS.
Where to buy original Labubus?
Due to the popularity, there is also a rise in counterfeit figures. Therefore, it is crucial to buy from a reliable shop. At Snrkickz, all Labubus are checked for authenticity and origin. This way, you can be sure you are not buying a fake and your collection retains its value.