Why Labubu Plush Toys Are Taking Over the World: What Makes Them So Addictive and Where to Buy Them in the US

If you’ve been scrolling through TikTok or Instagram lately, chances are you’ve come across a strange-yet-cute creature with big round eyes, mischievous bunny ears, and a grin full of sharp teeth. Meet Labubu, the newest collectible sensation from Asia that’s got adults and kids alike obsessing.

These adorable monster toys come from Pop Mart, a Chinese company known for creating blind box collectibles. And believe it or not, these spooky little cuties are now trending everywhere—from the streets of Hong Kong to the shelves of collectors in Los Angeles. But what is Labubu, why is it so popular, and how can you get your hands on one in the US? Let’s break it down.

What is Labubu?

Labubu isn’t your average plush toy. Designed by Kasing Lung, a Hong Kong-born illustrator who grew up in the Netherlands, Labubu was inspired by European fairy tales and the mystical vibe of Scandinavian forests.

With its bunny-like ears, sharp but friendly smile, and slightly creepy charm, Labubu quickly stood out in the toy world. The character is a part of Pop Mart’s “The Monsters” series, which has been around since 2015 but only recently exploded in popularity thanks to social media—and, let’s be real, its adorable weirdness.

According to Pop Mart, Labubu is a kind-hearted creature that always tries to help others, but usually ends up making a mess instead. Sounds relatable, right?

Why Are People Obsessed With Labubu?

Let’s be honest: the hype is real. Labubu isn’t just popular—it’s become a full-blown global trend. Here are a few reasons why:

1. Celebrity Endorsements

Labubu got a major popularity boost when celebrities like Lalisa Manobal (Lisa) from BLACKPINK publicly showed love for it. Even Dua Lipa and Rihanna have been spotted with these quirky toys.

So, it’s not just an “Asian thing” anymore. It’s part of the global pop culture wave, and fans are catching on fast.

2. Blind Box Craze

One of the biggest reasons behind Labubu’s viral status is Pop Mart’s “blind box” strategy. When you buy one, you don’t know which version you’re getting—kind of like a toy lottery.

This concept, often referred to as gacha, turns every purchase into a mini gamble. And yes, it’s seriously addicting. Some rare editions have odds of 1 in 72, which makes them even more desirable to collectors.

Opening blind boxes has become a form of entertainment itself. Just check out TikTok or YouTube, and you’ll find thousands of Labubu unboxing videos with millions of views.

“It’s fun and exciting. Finding a rare one gives you a dopamine rush,” says Lawrence Yu, a 27-year-old collector from Melbourne who’s already spent over $1,200 on more than 20 Labubu figures.

The Rise of Adult Toy Collectors (a.k.a. Kidults)

Another reason Labubu has gained traction is thanks to the rise of “kidults”—adults who collect toys, comics, and memorabilia from their childhood or just love cute pop culture collectibles.

Labubu hits all the right notes: nostalgic, a little creepy, super cute, and totally Instagrammable. Whether displayed on shelves or hung on bags as keychains, they bring joy and a dash of childhood whimsy into everyday life.

Pop Mart’s Big Business Boom

All this Labubu love has been very good for Pop Mart’s bottom line. The company’s net profit jumped a whopping 186% last year, hitting around $200 million.

Standard Labubu toys retail for around $10 to $30, but limited editions or rare designs can go for $200–$300 or more on resale sites.

Want something more affordable? There are also Labubu keychains and bag charms, perfect for accessorizing your purse, backpack, or keys without breaking the bank.

Where to Buy Labubu in the US

Okay, now for the big question: Where can you actually buy Labubu in the United States?

1. Official Pop Mart Stores and Website

Pop Mart has expanded globally, and their official website sometimes ships to the US. They also have some physical stores in major cities like Los Angeles and New York.

2. Retail Partners

You can often find Labubu blind boxes at specialty stores like Hot Topic, BoxLunch, or online at Amazon and AliExpress. But beware of counterfeits—more on that in a second.

3. Collector Marketplaces

Sites like eBay, Mercari, or Whatnot are filled with listings for rare Labubu figures. If you’re hunting for a specific version, this might be your best bet—but prices can get steep depending on rarity.

How to Avoid Fake Labubu Toys

With popularity comes imitation. The toy market is full of fake or unofficial Labubu toys, especially from shady online sellers. Here are a few tips to make sure you’re getting the real deal:

Check the packaging – Authentic Pop Mart toys usually come with official branding and holographic stickers.

Buy from verified sellers – Use trusted platforms or directly from Pop Mart’s official stores.

Ask questions – If buying from an individual, ask for close-up photos and proof of authenticity.

Compare prices – If a toy is being sold for much less than market value, it might be too good to be true.

 Should You Jump on the Labubu Bandwagon?

If you love cute collectibles with a twist, enjoy the thrill of mystery toys, or just want to stay on top of global pop trends—Labubu is definitely worth checking out.

It’s more than just a toy. It’s a mix of nostalgia, art, mystery, and pop culture wrapped into one little monster. Plus, it sparks joy (and maybe a little obsession) in a world where we could all use something fun to look forward to.