Introduction: The Rise of Designer Toys Labubu

Introduction: The Rise of Designer Toys Labubu

In the last twenty years, designer toys have really taken off. 
What started as a niche interest is now a mainstream hit, loved by collectors and casual fans alike.
One character at the forefront of this trend is Labubu, a playful figure that has captured hearts around the globe.

So, What's Labubu all about? And why is it so popular?

 Let’s take a closer look at Labubu's journey—from where it started to the buzz around its limited editions.

What Is Labubu?

Labubu is a distinctive character created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung under the brand The Monsters, produced by Pop Mart, a well-known art toy company in China. With sharp teeth, big eyes, and a cheeky grin, Labubu stands out in the designer toy world. 

Instead of being a traditional cute mascot, Labubu has an edgy charm that appeals to those who appreciate quirky art.

Labubu is part of a universe created by Kasing Lung, a former comic book artist turned toy designer.

This universe, known as “The Monsters,” features characters like Zimomo along with Labubu. Labubu quickly became the standout character.

Thanks to Kasing Lung’s background in illustration, Labubu figures often come with their own mini-stories, making them much more than just collectibles.

Labubu gained popularity for a few key reasons: - 

Unique Look

 It combines childlike charm with a bit of an edge.

Limited Editions

Most figures are made in small numbers.

Blind Box Surprise

You never know which version of Labubu you'll get.

Relatable Personality

Fans connect with its flawed, rebellious vibe. Online communities often give Labubu a personality, featuring it in memes, comics, and all sorts of creative expressions.

Pop Mart: The Company Behind the Craze

Pop Mart plays a crucial role in Labubu’s worldwide popularity. Their blind box format builds anticipation and exclusivity around each release. 

Whether you find them in vending machines or flagship stores, the buying experience is just as important as the toy itself.

By working with artists like Kasing Lung, Pop Mart has helped elevate designer toys to mainstream relevance. 

Labubu comes in many versions: - 

Classic Labubu: Basic brown fur and expressions - 

Fairy Tale Labubu: Inspired by classic tales - 

Forest Labubu: Dressed in animal costumes - 

Circus Labubu: Bright colors and wild patterns - 

Pirate Labubu: A one-eyed trickster

 

Each variation sparks excitement among collectors, with rare figures often selling for much higher prices.

Many Labubu series include rare “secret” figures, hidden in random boxes.

These are the treasures for collectors, with odds sometimes as low as 1 in 144.

Finding a secret Labubu can turn a 1000 Rs toy into a 30000 Rs  collectible almost instantly. 

Labubu has one of the most active fan bases in the designer toy scene. 

Hashtags like #labubu and #kasinglung are filled with fans sharing their collections and custom creations.

Fans can also connect through: -

Reddit forums and Discord for trades
YouTube unboxings and reviews
Fan art and stories For many,

 

 Labubu is more than just a figure—it's a whole community.

Labubu has made its mark in fashion and lifestyle too:

Streetwear brands are launching collaborations.
Limited clothing items like hoodies and hats often sell out fast. 
Some pop-up cafes feature Labubu themes.

 

This crossover appeal makes Labubu not just a collectible, but a part of everyday style.

 Want to grab your own Labubu? Here’s how:

 Visit Pop Mart stores and vending machines worldwide.
Shop online at Pop Mart’s official site.
Check out sites like eBay, StockX, or Taobao. 
Explore toy expos and conventions.

Just watch out for fakes—make sure to verify sellers and packaging.
Real Labubu figures have Pop Mart authentication marks. 

Rare Labubu figures are always in demand in the resale market, and some values have tripled in just a year.

It’s more than a hobby—it can be a sound investment if you know what to look for: 

First editions - Signed versions
Event-exclusive releases
Mint condition with original packaging.
Similar to sneakers or art prints, rarity and popularity can drive prices up.

As Labubu keeps gaining traction, fans are excited for what’s next:

Animated shorts or web series
Bigger toys or plushies
Collaborations with top brands
Augmented reality features

 

 

Indian Social Media & Marketplaces for Labubu

1. Instagram (India Collectors' Niche)

• Hashtags to Explore:
  #labubuindia, #popmartindia, #designercollectibles, #toystagramindia

• Top Pages & Communities:

  • @popmart_india (official/distributor-related pages)

  • @toyverseindia – Covers blind boxes and Pop Mart items

  • @blindbox.in – Offers toys and posts regular drops

💡 Tip: Use the “Close Friends” feature or reply to stories to score

2. Facebook Groups

Look for Indian collector groups where Pop Mart and Labubu fans actively trade, sell, and show off hauls.

• Popular Groups:

  • Designer Toys India (private group)

  • Pop Mart India Community

  • Blind Box Collectors India

3. YouTube (Unboxings + Indian Sellers)

• Indian collectors often share Pop Mart unboxings. Some also list where they bought them.

• Popular Channels:

  • Toyverse India

  • Mystery Box India

  • Unbox It All India

 

Events to Watch Out For in India

• Comic Con India (Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore): Pop Mart and designer toy booths often appear.

• Japan Foundation Events: Sometimes feature vinyl toys and collabs.

• Pop-Up Toy Shops in premium malls—especially during festivals.

 

 

The future looks bright for Labubu, and it’s sure to get even more interesting.

 

 

🔐 Tips to Avoid Fakes in India

1. Check the Box: Genuine Pop Mart boxes include serial codes and branded holograms.

2. Avoid Lazada/Taobao resellers unless verified.

3. Join Community Feedback Loops: Ask in Indian FB/WhatsApp groups if a seller is legit.

4. Price Too Low? Probably fake or used.

 

Conclusion: Mischief with Meaning

Labubu may seem like a troublemaker, but it represents creativity, expression, and modern storytelling.
It’s a unique toy that brings together childhood fun and adult themes.
Whether you're a long-time collector or just curious, Labubu opens a door to a vibrant world where art and play come together.

So go ahead, crack open that blind box. You might just find your new favorite companion.