Introduction to Hope Labubu
Hope Labubu is a whimsical and mischievous character designed by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, part of the popular The Monsters series under Pop Mart. Inspired by Nordic folklore, Labubu stands out with its fuzzy body, pointy ears, wide eyes, and a signature grin featuring nine sharp teeth. Since its debut in 2015, Labubu has gained a massive following, especially among young collectors and pop culture enthusiasts.
In my experience, what makes Labubu so appealing is its unique blend of cuteness and edginess. Unlike traditional cute figures, Labubu has a slightly “naughty” charm that resonates with collectors who appreciate unconventional designs. The collaboration with Pop Mart in 2019 further skyrocketed its popularity, leading to various themed series like Sweet Macaron, Sitting Party, and High Alert.
If you’re new to collecting Labubu, understanding its background and design philosophy will help you appreciate its value. Whether you’re buying for fun or investment, knowing the different series and their rarity is crucial.
Design and Series Breakdown
Labubu’s design is instantly recognizable—fluffy, round, and full of personality. Each series introduces unique color schemes, poses, and accessories, making some editions highly sought-after.
One of my personal favorites is the Sweet Macaron series, featuring pastel-colored Labubu figures with a dreamy aesthetic. Another standout is the Sitting Party series, where Labubu is posed in playful sitting positions, perfect for display. Limited editions, like the Mint Green Labubu from an art auction, have sold for astonishing prices (reportedly up to ¥1.08 million), proving their investment potential.
When I visited a Pop Mart store in Shanghai, I noticed how certain Labubu figures were displayed as “hidden” blind-box pulls, adding an element of surprise to collecting. Some rare variants, like the Zombie Labubu or Glow-in-the-Dark editions, are especially prized.
Key takeaway: If you’re serious about collecting, research each series to identify which ones align with your taste and budget.
Collecting Value and Investment Potential
Labubu figures aren’t just toys—they’re collectibles with real market value. Their worth depends on factors like rarity, condition, and demand.
For example, limited-edition releases or convention exclusives (like those from DesignerCon or Toy Soul) tend to appreciate over time. In my experience, figures from early series (pre-2020) are harder to find and often sell at higher prices in secondary markets like eBay or StockX.
A useful tip: Follow Pop Mart’s official announcements for new drops. Some figures sell out within minutes, and resale prices can double or triple shortly after. I once missed a limited Rainbow Labubu release and had to pay nearly 3x the retail price later—lesson learned!
If you’re collecting for profit, focus on:
- Limited editions (numbered releases, event exclusives)
- Mint-condition figures (unopened boxes fetch higher prices)
- Trending series (social media buzz often drives demand)
Where to Buy Hope Labubu Figures
Purchasing Labubu figures requires strategy. Here are the best places to buy:
- Official Pop Mart Stores/Website – The safest option, with new releases and restocks.
- Authorized Retailers – Stores like Toy Tokyo or Mighty Jaxx sometimes carry exclusive editions.
- Secondary Markets – eBay, Mercari, and StockX are great for rare finds, but prices can be inflated.
I personally recommend joining Facebook groups or Discord communities for Labubu collectors. Members often trade or sell figures at fair prices, and you might even snag a rare piece before it hits mainstream resale sites.
Pro tip: If buying secondhand, always check seller reviews and request authenticity proof (original packaging, receipts).
Care and Maintenance Tips
Labubu figures are durable but require proper care to retain value. Here’s how I maintain mine:
- Dust Regularly – Use a soft brush or microfiber cloth to prevent buildup.
- Avoid Sunlight – Prolonged exposure can fade colors. Display in a shaded area or glass cabinet.
- Handle with Clean Hands – Oils and dirt can stain the fabric over time.
For deep cleaning, I’ve successfully used a mild detergent and damp cloth (spot-test first!). Never submerge the figure in water—it can damage the stuffing and paint.
If you’re storing Labubu long-term, keep it in its original box with silica gel packets to prevent moisture damage.
Final Thoughts: Is Labubu Worth Collecting?
Absolutely! Whether you love its quirky design or see it as an investment, Labubu offers both fun and financial potential. From my journey as a collector, the key is to:
- Stay updated on releases (follow Pop Mart’s social media).
- Prioritize rare editions if resale value matters.
- Connect with other collectors for trades and insights.
Labubu’s charm lies in its uniqueness—no two collections are the same. Happy hunting!
Would you like recommendations on specific series? Let me know in the comments! 🚀
