The excitement has transcended age groups and genders.

There are few things more difficult to resist than a small child desperate for a toy that is the latest craze among his or her peers.  It becomes especially difficult when adults increase the frenzy by also collecting the same item.  This is the case with Labubus.

 

David Beckham’s bag with the Labubu his daughter gave him.

Labubus are the cute, small, fuzzy elf-like dolls with no tail, high pointy ears and 9 teeth.  They are based on a Nordic-inspired picture book by Kasing Lung, and created by the toy company Pop Mart.  Labubus officially are part of the Monster Series. So far, Labubus have been released in over 300 colors, shapes, and sizes. The craze officially began in 2019 when author Kasing Lung signed an exclusive license agreement with Pop Mart, and the first products appeared in 2023.

They usually measure 6” x 3.15” x 2.76”. A Labubu can easily hang from a backpack, purse, or belt because they come with a gold-tone ring clasp.  They officially retail for $22.00 but are difficult to find and I’m seeing prices starting at $25.00 – $100.00. If you can find one for resale on Ebay or elsewhere, they can run into the hundreds of dollars.  There can be lines around the block when a store has them in stock.  Some toy stores will take orders for them.

Simone Biles’ Labubus in their Gucci outfits.

Part of the hysteria was created by celebrities like Lizzo, Simone Biles, Rihanna, Dua Lipa and Emma Roberts who have posted their adoration of these critters on their social media.   The doll can be a fashion accessory or simply a companion. They are sold in ‘blind boxes’ meaning that you don’t know which Labubu is inside until you have purchased and opened the box.  Spin-off companies are making clothing and accessories to go with your Labubu.

They are the current craze for kids and adults alike and originated in Hong Kong.

If you must have one, the best place to find one is on the Pop Mart site or store because they release them first online every Thursday evening at 9 p.m. and in stores on Friday mornings at 10 a.m.  They now come in two versions – version one, the first ones launched in 2023, are in a standing position with adjustable heads, arms, and feet. Version 2 was launched in July, 2024 and come in a seated position.  They have a softer fur and come in one of three expressions – eyes open, blinking, or eyes closed.

Other shops have those claw machines that are fully stocked with Labubus.   If you get lucky the claw will catch you a Labubu, but some people spend hours and too much money trying to ‘win’ one.

Beware of fakes, referred to as ‘Lafufus’.  To spot a counterfeit one, check the packaging and the QR code.  Authentic Labubu packaging has a matte finish, and the fakes often have a glossy uneven surface. Genuine QR codes are printed clearly and sharply.  Fakes are often blurry or poorly printed. In authentic Labubu packaging, the arrow in the trash can symbol has rounded corners, while fakes often have square corners. Finally, count the teeth. Authentic Labubus have 9 teeth.

Good luck!

This new Labubu craze reminds me of some of the hot toys from the past which sparked buying frenzies.  Ready for some nostalgia?

Rubik’s Cube (1980s) – The colorful 3×3 puzzle became a worldwide phenomenon, inspiring competitions and a surge in brainteaser toys.

Tamagotchi (1990s) – These digital “pet” toys introduced the virtual pet craze, captivating kids and even adults.

Pokémon Cards (late 1990s – present) – Trading card games and related merchandise, sparked by the Pokémon anime and video games, created massive hype.

Furby (1998) – These electronic, interactive plush toys became must-have items, often selling out quickly.

Beanie Babies (1990s) – Collectible plush toys that became a huge fad, driven by scarcity and investment speculation.

Hatchimals (2016) – Interactive toys that “hatch” real eggs, creating immense excitement among children.

 

 

 

 

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