For collectors and toy enthusiasts, the name Labubu has become synonymous with charm, uniqueness, and artistic creativity. Over the last few years, this captivating character, created by artist Kasing Lung and produced by Pop Mart, has captured the hearts of fans across the globe. While many Labubu designs are available in retail, the rare editions tend to disappear quickly—sometimes within hours of release. This is why finding them before they sell out is both a challenge and an exciting journey.
In this guide, we will explore what makes Labubu dolls so special, where to find them, strategies to secure rare editions, and how to build a valuable collection.
The Story Behind Labubu
Labubu is a quirky, whimsical creature from the fantasy world of "The Monsters," an imaginative universe filled with vibrant personalities. Labubu stands out with its mischievous smile, playful eyes, and unpredictable costumes. The artist behind this creation, Kasing Lung, has infused the character with an emotional personality that resonates with both casual buyers and serious collectors.
Produced by Pop Mart, a company known for high-quality designer toys, Labubu has grown into a cultural phenomenon. Pop Mart's blind box format—where buyers don't know exactly which figure they are getting—adds to the thrill of collecting.
Why Rare Labubu Dolls Are So Valuable
Rare editions of Labubu hold significant value for several reasons:
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Limited Production Runs – Special editions may only have a few hundred or thousand units produced worldwide.
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Seasonal & Event Exclusives – Some Labubu dolls are only available at Pop Mart conventions or during seasonal drops.
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Collaborations with Designers – When Labubu is reimagined through collaborations with other artists, demand skyrockets.
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Resale Market Demand – Because rare Labubu figures sell out quickly, collectors often turn to secondary markets where prices can double or triple.
The scarcity combined with high demand creates a strong resale value for rare Labubu dolls, making them not only adorable collectibles but also potential investment pieces.
Types of Rare Labubu Dolls
1. Blind Box Chases
Within a typical Pop Mart blind box series, there is usually one “chase” figure—the rarest design in the set. These are highly sought after.
2. Limited Event Releases
Certain Labubu editions are only available at Pop Mart stores during special anniversaries or events.
3. Crossover Collaborations
Occasionally, Labubu is reimagined with influences from pop culture, fashion brands, or other artist collaborations.
4. Holiday Editions
Labubu often appears in seasonal themes like Christmas, Halloween, or Lunar New Year. These are usually one-time releases.
Where to Find Rare Labubu Dolls
Pop Mart Official Stores
The best place to find genuine Labubu dolls is directly from Pop Mart stores or their online shop. The key is to be ready as soon as a new drop is announced.
Pop Mart App & Online Drops
Pop Mart’s official app often releases figures earlier than in-store. Downloading the app and enabling notifications is essential.
Collector Conventions
Events like the Beijing Toy Show or Pop Mart Robo Shop openings often feature exclusive Labubu designs.
Specialty Toy Stores
Select independent toy stores partner with Pop Mart to sell Labubu figures.
Secondary Marketplaces
Websites like eBay, StockX, and dedicated collector forums are go-to options for hard-to-find designs. Always check seller ratings and authenticity before buying.
Tips to Secure Rare Labubu Before They Sell Out
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Follow Pop Mart Announcements – Sign up for newsletters and follow official social media accounts.
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Set Release Day Alarms – Rare drops often sell out within minutes, so being online early is crucial.
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Join Collector Communities – Facebook groups, Discord servers, and Reddit threads often share insider tips.
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Consider Pre-Orders – Some stores allow pre-orders for upcoming releases.
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Attend Launch Events – Pop Mart stores sometimes offer exclusive figures during grand openings.
Building a Valuable Labubu Collection
1. Define Your Focus
Some collectors choose to focus on holiday editions, others on collaborations, while some aim for complete sets.
2. Track Your Collection
Use apps or spreadsheets to keep a record of purchase dates, prices, and edition details.
3. Keep Figures in Mint Condition
For long-term value, avoid opening blind boxes unless necessary. Store them in a cool, dry place.
4. Learn Market Trends
Study past sales to predict which upcoming editions might increase in value.
5. Network with Other Collectors
Trading is a popular way to acquire rare Labubu figures without paying inflated resale prices.
The Future of Labubu Collecting
Labubu’s popularity shows no sign of slowing down. As Pop Mart expands globally, more collectors are entering the scene, which could drive up demand even further. New series, collaborations, and international events will continue to fuel the hunt for rare editions. For serious collectors, getting in early on new releases will be more important than ever.
FAQs About Labubu Collecting
Q1: What is the rarest Labubu doll ever released?
The rarest Labubu editions are typically chase figures from blind box sets and limited event exclusives, such as the Pop Mart Anniversary Labubu.
Q2: How can I tell if a Labubu doll is authentic?
Authentic Labubu figures come with Pop Mart’s official logo, high-quality printing, and unique packaging. Counterfeits often have lower build quality.
Q3: Are Labubu dolls a good investment?
While collectible markets can be unpredictable, rare Labubu editions have shown steady resale value growth in recent years.
Q4: How do blind boxes work for Labubu?
When purchasing a Labubu blind box, you won’t know which design you’re getting until you open it. Each series has common figures and one rare chase figure.
Q5: Where can I trade Labubu dolls?
Online communities, toy fairs, and collector meet-ups are great places for trading. Popular platforms include Facebook groups and Discord servers.
Final Thoughts
Hunting for rare Labubu dolls is an adventure that blends creativity, community, and the thrill of the chase. Whether you are just starting your collection or already own several rare editions, the key to success lies in staying informed, acting fast, and building relationships within the collector community. With each new release, the Labubu world grows richer, offering endless possibilities for those who know where—and how—to look.