The world of designer toys has captured the imagination of collectors across the globe, and among the most beloved figures is Labubu, the mischievous, pointy-eared creature created by the talented Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung. What started as a quirky character from Lung’s illustrations has evolved into one of the most sought-after vinyl toys in the art toy community. Produced by the renowned designer toy brand How2Work and distributed through Pop Mart, Labubu has become a cultural icon—playful, eerie, and irresistibly charming.
For both newcomers and seasoned collectors, understanding the history, rarity, and artistry behind Labubu is key to building a collection that truly shines. labubu This guide explores the evolution of Labubu, the rarest figures, and the hidden gems that make this toy line so special.
The Origins of Labubu
Labubu was first introduced through Kasing Lung’s whimsical illustrations, where he crafted an imaginative world called The Monsters, inhabited by quirky, dreamlike creatures. Labubu, with his signature wide grin, sharp teeth, and childlike proportions, quickly stood out as the central figure of this universe.
When Kasing Lung partnered with How2Work to bring his characters to life as collectible vinyl toys, Labubu transitioned from paper to plastic, enchanting fans who appreciated both art and storytelling. Each Labubu design reflects Lung’s surreal aesthetic, often blending innocence with darkness—a combination that resonates deeply with collectors who appreciate art toys as more than just figures but as miniature works of art.
The Rise of the Labubu Phenomenon
Labubu’s popularity skyrocketed when Pop Mart began producing blind box series featuring the character in a variety of costumes and themes. These mystery boxes made collecting both thrilling and addictive, as each series contained a mix of common figures, secret editions, and ultra-rare chases.
Collectors loved the excitement of the unknown—opening a box to find not only a favorite character but possibly a secret variant worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. The charm of Labubu lies in its versatility. From pirate and astronaut themes to seasonal designs like Halloween and Christmas editions, Labubu’s world is constantly expanding, ensuring that each release brings new excitement to fans.
Popular Labubu Series
Over the years, several Labubu series have become staples of designer toy collections. One of the most popular is the Labubu Forest Series, where each figure represents a magical creature from an enchanted woodland. Another fan favorite is the Labubu Circus Series, showcasing the character in colorful, theatrical outfits that reflect Kasing Lung’s playful imagination.
The Labubu Fairy Tale Series pays tribute to classic stories, reimagining Labubu as characters like the Big Bad Wolf or Little Red Riding Hood, each with an eerie, dreamlike twist. The Labubu Halloween Series also draws special attention every year, with spooky designs and limited seasonal releases that disappear from shelves almost instantly.
Each new collection adds layers to Labubu’s story, giving fans new ways to interpret the character’s mischievous charm.
The Rarest Labubu Figures
Rarity plays a huge role in the Labubu collecting world. Some figures are produced in extremely limited quantities, often as event exclusives or artist editions. One of the most coveted examples is the Labubu Gold Edition, which features a metallic gold finish and was released in limited numbers at select art fairs.
Another rare gem is the Labubu x How2Work Original Handmade Edition, a handcrafted version personally overseen by Kasing Lung. These pieces often sell out immediately and can fetch premium prices on the resale market.
The Labubu Hong Kong Toy Soul Exclusive editions are also legendary among collectors, featuring unique designs that are only available to attendees of the event. These figures represent the ultimate treasures for fans who appreciate the blend of artistry and exclusivity.
Sometimes, the rarest Labubus aren’t even publicly announced. Pop Mart occasionally releases secret figures within blind box series—ultra-rare variants with different colors or accessories that can only be discovered through luck. Finding one of these hidden gems is like striking gold in the world of designer toys.
Hidden Gems and Artist Collaborations
Beyond the major releases, some of the most interesting Labubu figures come from special collaborations and small-scale artist editions. Kasing Lung has collaborated with numerous designers and brands, producing Labubus that merge his art with other creative styles.
One standout example is the Labubu x The Monsters collaboration set, where Labubu appears alongside other characters from Lung’s universe, such as Spooky and Bebebi. These sets often include exclusive packaging and limited prints, making them especially desirable for collectors who value complete thematic collections.
Another hidden gem is the Monsters x Labubu Dreamwalker Edition, which captures a softer, dreamlike quality compared to the usual mischievous grin. Collectors cherish these subtle variations because they highlight Kasing Lung’s versatility as an artist, showing that Labubu can express a range of emotions beyond his trademark smirk.
The Art of Collecting Labubu
Collecting Labubu figures is about more than just amassing toys—it’s about participating in an evolving art form. Each figure reflects Kasing Lung’s creativity, LABUBU Box and many collectors treat their Labubus as part of a larger art collection. Proper display, preservation, and authentication are essential for maintaining value and aesthetic appeal.
Collectors often store figures in glass cabinets or display boxes to protect them from dust and sunlight, which can damage paint or vinyl over time. Keeping the original packaging intact also adds to the value, especially for limited editions.
Another key part of collecting Labubu is community. Online groups, forums, and social media pages are full of passionate fans who share photos, trade figures, and discuss upcoming releases. This global network of collectors keeps the excitement alive, turning each release into a shared event.
The Market Value of Labubu
The secondary market for Labubu figures can be unpredictable but often lucrative. Rare editions frequently sell for several times their retail price, especially if they’re in mint condition. The value of certain figures, such as the early How2Work releases or exclusive event editions, has steadily increased as more collectors enter the scene.
However, while monetary value is one aspect, many collectors emphasize emotional and artistic value. Each Labubu tells a story—one that connects its owner to the whimsical world of Kasing Lung. This storytelling aspect is what transforms Labubu from a mere collectible into a meaningful art piece.
The Future of Labubu Collecting
As the designer toy movement continues to expand globally, Labubu’s popularity shows no signs of slowing down. Kasing Lung and Pop Mart have hinted at more ambitious collaborations, new character spin-offs, and even larger-scale figures that blur the line between sculpture and toy.
With Labubu’s growing influence, it’s likely we’ll see more crossover projects with fashion brands, galleries, and pop culture icons. For collectors, this means endless opportunities to discover new designs and stories that capture the heart of what makes Labubu so beloved—its playful balance between light and dark, innocence and mischief.
Final Thoughts
Labubu is more than just a vinyl figure—it’s a symbol of creativity, nostalgia, and artistic expression. Whether you’re drawn to its eerie grin, its handcrafted artistry, or the thrill of the hunt, Labubu represents the best of what designer toys can offer. Each release carries a piece of Kasing Lung’s imaginative world, inviting collectors to be part of a story that continues to evolve with every new edition.
For anyone beginning their journey into Labubu collecting, the most important rule is simple: collect what you love. In the end, the rarest treasure of all is the joy that comes from holding a piece of art that sparks your imagination and connects you to a global community of dreamers.
