In 2025, the world was gripped by a real fever for cute toothy monsters called Labubus. These collectible toys became the main trend of spring and summer, conquering social networks and the hearts of millions of people around the world. Let's figure out what these unusual creatures are and why they became so popular.
What is Labubu and what does the toy look like
Labubu are collectible soft toys in the form of elf monsters, created by Hong Kong designer Kasing Lung and produced by the Chinese company Pop Mart. Characteristic features of these creatures are pointy ears, a wide toothy grin and a cute expression on the face. The toys are about the size of a kitten, which makes them ideal for collecting and using as keychains or decorative elements.
According to the official story, all Labubus are girls who live in a mysterious forest and eat berries and fruits. The characters were first introduced in 2015 as part of the «Monsters» series, inspired by Scandinavian mythology and folklore, which the designer loved as a child.
Collection and Varieties
Designers have created many variations of Labubu, among which the six main characters stand out: Sisi, Hehe, Baba, Zizi, Kuku and Dada. The monsters vary in color, facial expression and accessories. Some have open eyes, others have closed eyes, which gives each character a unique character.
In addition to the basic models, Pop Mart regularly releases limited editions and secret figures, which makes collecting especially exciting. The most affordable for purchase are Labubu pendants and keychains, which can be worn on a bag, keys or used as a decorative element.
Packaging and secret figures
One of the features of Labubu sales is the «blind box» system. Buyers do not know in advance which figure they will receive, which adds an element of excitement and surprise to the buying process. Each series includes regular figures and rare «secret» copies, which are much less common and highly valued by collectors.
The packaging of the toys is made in the characteristic Pop Mart style — bright boxes with images of characters and information about the series. High-quality packaging is also one of the signs of original products.
Why Labubu became popular
Labubu's popularity is due to several factors. Firstly, their unusual design — a combination of cuteness and a little «scary» creates a unique image that stands out among other toys. The toothy smiles of the monsters evoke contradictory but bright emotions.
Secondly, the collecting effect plays an important role. The «blind box» system and rare figures create the excitement of the hunt for the right one. Many buyers are carried away by the process of collecting a complete collection.
Thirdly, social networks played a huge role in the popularization of toys. Celebrities, including Lisa from Blackpink and Rihanna, were spotted with Labubu keychains, which instantly attracted the attention of millions of fans. TikTok and Instagram were filled with videos of these toys, creating a viral effect. How much does an original toy cost
The price of original Labubu toys varies depending on the collection and rarity of the item. Basic models in official Pop Mart stores cost around £17 (approximately 1,800 rubles). Regular toys can be found in the price range of 10 to 30 dollars (800-2,500 rubles).
However, the cost can increase significantly for rare and limited edition items. Secret figures and special editions can easily cost 5,000-10,000 rubles, and collectors on the secondary market are willing to pay more than 50,000 rubles for especially rare items.
On Russian marketplaces, prices for original toys start at 3,500 rubles, and resellers offer delivery from abroad at a price of 5,000 rubles.
How to distinguish an original from a fake
With the growing popularity of Labubu, the market has been flooded with fakes. You can tell the original toy by several signs:
Quality of materials: original Labubus are made of high-quality plush with a pleasant texture. Fakes often have rougher fabric and uneven seams.
Packaging: original toys come in high-quality boxes with clear printing and correct Pop Mart logos. Fakes may have poor-quality packaging, with blurry images or errors in the text.
Proportions and details: original Labubus have clearly defined details, correct proportions and a characteristic facial expression. Fakes often look sloppy, with distorted features.
Official markings: original toys must have the appropriate Pop Mart tags and markings.
Where to buy an original toy
Original Labubus toys can be purchased in official Pop Mart stores, which operate in various countries. In Russia, original toys are available through official dealers and specialized stores of collectibles.
You can also find original copies on international marketplaces, but when buying, you should be especially attentive to the reputation of the seller and signs of authenticity of the goods. Many collectors prefer to buy toys through specialized groups on social networks, where new products are actively discussed and the authenticity of goods is checked. The growing popularity of Labubu shows how Modern collectible toys can become cultural phenomena, uniting people of different ages in a common passion for cute toothy monsters.