In the dynamic world of collectibles, Labubu has emerged as a highly debated subject. These unique toys, with their distinct appearance and a growing presence in popular culture, have caught the attention of enthusiasts and casual observers alike. Whether Labubu is worth collecting depends on several factors, each contributing to its allure and potential value.
Labubu was created by Hong Kong - born artist Kasing Lung in 2015 as part of his “The Monsters” series. Inspired by Nordic fairy tales, Labubu has a design that sets it apart from traditional toys. Its large head, fuzzy body, pointy ears, and nine sharp teeth give it an “ugly - cute” or “mischievous - cute” aesthetic. This blend of the cute and the slightly menacing creates a sense of intrigue. Each Labubu figure is a work of art, with detailed painting and craftsmanship. For example, in the “Zimomo and Labubu Forest Stroll” series, the figures are designed with great care, with Labubu placed in a forest - themed setting. The attention to detail in the coloring of the forest elements and the expression on Labubu's face makes these figures highly appealing to art lovers. This artistic value is a strong argument in favor of Labubu's collectability, as it offers collectors a chance to own a piece of unique, hand - crafted art.
One of the major factors that drive the collectability of Labubu is its scarcity. Pop Mart, the company responsible for mass - producing and distributing Labubu toys, often uses a blind - box system. In a blind - box collection, there are multiple different Labubu designs, and collectors don't know which one they will get until they open the box. To make it more exciting, there are rare “secret” figures that have a very low probability of being included. For instance, in some series, the chance of getting a secret Labubu might be as low as 1 in 144 boxes. This rarity factor creates a sense of excitement and anticipation among collectors.
Moreover, Pop Mart also releases limited - edition Labubu figures. These can be exclusive to certain events, like a special toy fair, or they could be part of a limited - production run. For example, at international toy conventions, there are often Labubu figures available that are only sold at that specific event. These limited - edition items are highly sought after, and their scarcity significantly increases their value in the eyes of collectors.
Labubu has had a significant cultural and social impact, which also contributes to its collectability. The character has transcended borders and age groups. In Asia, it has long had a cult following, and with the power of social media, it has gained global fans. Celebrities such as K - pop star Lisa of Blackpink, Rihanna, and Dua Lipa have been seen with Labubu products. When these high - profile individuals are spotted with Labubu, it creates a huge buzz. Their fans, who number in the millions, then become interested in
Labubu, increasing its popularity exponentially.
On social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, the hashtag #Labubu has been used in over 1.4 million mentions. Collectors share their Labubu collections, unboxing experiences, and tips for finding rare figures. This creates a sense of community among Labubu enthusiasts. People bond over their shared love for these toys, trading figures, discussing their favorite designs, and even organizing meet - ups. This social aspect of collecting Labubu makes it more than just about owning a toy; it becomes a way to connect with like - minded people.
There is a growing trend of collectors viewing Labubu as an investment. In the secondary market, some Labubu figures have sold for astonishing prices. For example, a Vans - 联名款 Labubu doll that was originally priced at 599 yuan was being sold for around 30,000 yuan on the “得物” platform. In some cases, limited - edition and rare Labubu figures have even fetched thousands of dollars on international resale platforms like StockX and eBay.
However, like any investment, there are risks. The collectible toy market can be highly volatile. New trends and characters can emerge quickly, and consumer interests can shift. If Labubu fails to maintain its popularity or if Pop Mart over - saturates the market with new releases, the value of existing Labubu figures could decline. Additionally, the presence of counterfeit Labubu products, known as “La Fufu,” in the market can also affect the value of genuine items.
Labubu offers a unique blend of artistic charm, scarcity, cultural significance, and potential for investment. For those who are drawn to its design and enjoy the thrill of collecting rare items, as well as being part of a community, Labubu is definitely worth collecting. The emotional and aesthetic value it brings to collectors cannot be understated. However, if one is considering collecting Labubu purely as an investment, it is crucial to approach it with caution. Keep an eye on market trends, be aware of the risks, and only invest what one can afford to lose. Overall, for the right collector, Labubu can be a rewarding addition to a collection, both in terms of personal enjoyment and potential financial gain.
