Labubu: The Viral ‘Monster Elf’ Toy– Origins, Craze & Why It Is So Expensive

In the rapidly evolving world of collectible toys, one quirky creature has emerged as a global sensation: Labubu, the “monster elf” with a mischievous grin, spiky ears, and wide-eyed charm. What started as an illustrated character has evolved into a billion-dollar cultural phenomenon, sparking frenzy among collectors and drawing attention from fashionistas, celebrities, and investors alike.

But what exactly is Labubu? Where did it come from? And why are some of these dolls selling for thousands of dollars?

Let’s unpack the origin, rise to fame, and the premium price tag of this unusual yet beloved character.

The Origin of Labubu

Labubu was created by Kasing Lung, a Hong Kong–born, Belgian-based illustrator and artist. The character first appeared in his children’s picture books, part of a series called “The Monsters”, which featured odd yet lovable creatures exploring themes of loneliness, friendship, and adventure.

Labubu was one of the standout characters—mysterious yet oddly comforting. With his pointy ears, exaggerated smile, and expressive eyes, he quickly became a fan favorite in the indie art community.

In 2019, Labubu’s fate changed dramatically when Lung partnered with Chinese toy giant Pop Mart, a company known for transforming designer art into mass collectible vinyl figures using blind-box marketing.

Pop Mart’s blind box model turned Labubu into a must-have collectible. Here’s how it works:

Customers buy sealed boxes without knowing which figure is inside.
Each series includes “regular,” “rare,” and “super rare” figures.
The thrill of chance has driven fans to buy dozens of boxes to complete their collections.

This lottery-style system created a demand loop, rare editions of Labubu became prized treasures, sparking resale markets and long queues at Pop Mart stores globally.

The Rise of Labubu’s Global Fame

Labubu’s popularity exploded after celebrities began flaunting the doll on social media:

BLACKPINK’s Lisa shared photos with her Labubu keychain.
TikTok influencers posted unboxing videos that went viral.
The dolls have been spotted in the arms of trendsetters across Asia, Europe, and even North America.

In China, where kawaii culture and collectible toys are booming, Labubu isn’t just a toy—it’s a lifestyle item and a status symbol.

How much is labubu? Why Is Labubu So Expensive?

The doll which is sold at about ₦100,000 to ₦150,000 (at about $50) sounds so expensive compared to the materials it’s made of and the uses; a Facebook user has asked if it is made of diamonds.

Several factors contribute to Labubu’s high price on both primary and secondary markets:

1. Scarcity and Limited Editions

Pop Mart releases each Labubu series in limited quantities, often including “hidden” or “chase” figures with very low production numbers. These rare pieces can fetch thousands of dollars online. In one instance, a giant Labubu plush reportedly sold for over $150,000 at auction in Beijing.

Because buyers don’t know which toy they’re getting, it drives multiple purchases. Completing a set can cost hundreds of dollars. When specific figures become difficult to find, collectors turn to resale platforms, bidding prices up.

3. Pop Culture Appeal

Labubu’s mix of cuteness and creepiness appeals to Gen Z and millennial aesthetics. It’s often showcased on Instagram shelves, keychains, or fashion accessories. It’s more than a toy.

4. Branding and Community

Pop Mart has built a passionate collector community around Labubu. Launch events draw massive crowds, and online communities share photos, swap figures, and hype new releases. Owning Labubu is about being part of an exclusive global fandom.