What is LABUBU? The Complete Guide to POP MART’s Hottest Art Toy

Right now, a mischievous little monster is taking the world by storm. Its name is LABUBU, and it’s the art toy sensation everyone is talking about. With its unforgettable, expressive face and its backstory as a playful elf, LABUBU has captured the hearts of a massive global fanbase.

So, what exactly is LABUBU, and why is it so captivating? This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the character, its creator, and most importantly, how you can get your hands on one.

Meet LABUBU and The Monsters

Note: The products featured here may be from the secondary resale market.

LABUBU is the star character in “THE MONSTERS” series, a whimsical world of playful, goblin-like elves. Its most defining features are a wide mouth full of crooked teeth and a highly expressive face that can convey a wide range of emotions.

The mastermind behind this surreal yet adorable universe is Kasing Lung, a Hong Kong-based artist. His unique, charmingly quirky monster designs are the foundation of LABUBU’s irresistible appeal.

Meet the main crew:

• LABUBU: The mischievous protagonist who appears in countless creative forms.
• TYCOCO: LABUBU’s best friend, known for a cool, sometimes melancholic vibe.
• ZIMOMO: A character shrouded in mystery.
• SPOOKY: A ghost-like figure with a surprisingly friendly face.

These characters are brought to life by POP MART, the global art toy brand headquartered in China, primarily through a “blind box” format. A huge part of the fun is the thrill of not knowing which character you’ll get, making collecting a truly exciting experience.

Why Is LABUBU a Global Phenomenon? The Secrets to Its Popularity

LABUBU’s rise to fame isn’t just a coincidence. Here’s why people can’t get enough:

The Thrill of the Blind Box: The suspense of opening a blind box is an addictive experience, much like opening a pack of trading cards. The joy of pulling the character you were hoping for is unmatched.

An Addictively Unique Design: The “mischievous elf” concept, blending cuteness with a touch of the bizarre, creates a one-of-a-kind charm. Its expressive face and detailed design are simply captivating.

High-Quality Craftsmanship: These aren’t just toys; they’re high-quality collector’s items. The detailed sculpting and premium paintwork satisfy the collector’s desire for a premium product.

The Hype of Limited Editions & Collabs: POP MART frequently drops limited-edition series and collaborations with popular brands and artists. These exclusive items are often hard to find, fueling the collector’s chase.

Social Media Buzz & Fan Community: LABUBU’s popularity exploded after members of a world-famous girl group declared themselves fans and posted their collections on social media. This sparked a massive, active fan community online.

Where Can You Buy LABUBU?

There are several ways to get your hands on LABUBU. Understanding your options is key to making a safe and successful purchase.

1. In-Person: See Them Before You Buy

For those who want the tangible experience of shopping, physical stores are your best bet.

• POP MART Official Stores & Authorized Retailers

Benefits: This is the best way to find the latest series, store exclusives, and a wide selection of products. You can also immerse yourself in the world of LABUBU through in-store events.

Key Locations: In Japan, POP MART’s key Tokyo locations include its flagship store in Harajuku and the store at Shibuya PARCO. Beyond the capital, you can also find official stores and authorized retailers in other major cities like Osaka and Nagoya, with locations across the country.

Other Retailers: You might also find them at popular Japanese variety stores like Loft or Village Vanguard. Stock varies by store, so it’s always a good idea to check beforehand.

・POP MART ROBOSHOP (Vending Machines): Located in places like Haneda Airport and Tokyo Solamachi, as well as other shopping centers and train stations, these vending machines offer a quick and easy way to buy. The selection is limited, but you can find their locations on the official POP MART website or app.

2. Online: Convenience at Your Fingertips

If you prefer shopping from home, online is the way to go.

・POP MART Official Online Shop: This is the most reliable way to ensure you’re buying authentic products. You’ll get access to pre-orders for new releases, online exclusives, and loyalty rewards. The checkout process is also straightforward, with a seamless experience from signing up to payment and delivery. However, be aware that popular items sell out extremely fast.

・Major E-commerce Sites & Resale Markets: You can find LABUBU on major marketplaces like Amazon or eBay, as well as their Japanese equivalents like Rakuten Ichiba and Yahoo! Shopping. While you might find rare gems or sold-out items, there is a significant risk of encountering counterfeit products. Be prepared for premium resale prices, especially for popular and limited series, where items can sell for much more than their original JPY price. Be cautious of listings that are priced exceptionally high or suspiciously low. When using these sites, pay close attention to the following points:

• Tips for Safe Shopping:

• Check Seller Reliability: Always buy from official sellers or those with a long history of positive reviews.
• Examine Product Details: Scrutinize photos and descriptions for any inconsistencies.
• Know the Market Price: Research the going rate for an item to avoid overpaying or falling for a fake.

For a worry-free experience on the resale market, consider a platform like SNKRDUNK. Originally known for sneakers and trading cards, SNKRDUNK has expanded its professional authentication service to include art toys. Their team of expert authenticators verifies every item, ensuring that only genuine products reach the buyer and eliminating the risk of counterfeits.

How to Score Rare and Exclusive LABUBU Items

Looking for something extra special?

• Events & Pop-Up Shops: Keep an eye out for special events hosted by POP MART or pop-up shops in department stores. They often feature event-exclusives and may hold lotteries for the chance to purchase highly sought-after items. Follow POP MART’s official social media for announcements.
• Collaboration Pieces: Collabs with famous brands and artists offer unique designs not found in the regular lineup. These are typically announced on the respective brands’ websites and social media.

You can also hunt for these rare and exclusive items on SNKRDUNK. Items that were once only available at specific events or through collaborations can often be found there, all verified for authenticity.

How to Buy with Confidence

The safest way to start your collection is through POP MART’s official stores and website. However, when hunting for that sold-out series or a rare exclusive, the secondary market is unavoidable.

This is where SNKRDUNK’s authentication service becomes invaluable. Their team of experts rigorously inspects each art toy, providing a crucial layer of security and peace of mind. With SNKRDUNK, you can be confident that the LABUBU you’ve been searching for is 100% authentic.

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