Labubu is not a regular doll. It doesn’t have soft colors, a sweet smile, or the “cute and perfect” look you see in most toys. Instead, it has sharp teeth, big wide eyes, and a mischievous grin that feels both scary and adorable. But this odd little character has taken the world by storm. From international celebrities to toy collectors and social media influencers, everyone wants to own a Labubu.
So, how did a strange-looking doll become one of the most viral and expensive collectibles on the planet? Here’s the story behind the Labubu craze.
The Beginning of Labubu
Labubu was designed by artist Kasing Lung and became famous after the Chinese company Pop Mart started selling it in blind boxes. A blind box means you buy the toy without knowing which design is inside until you open it. This surprise element created excitement and curiosity among buyers.
Pop Mart made many versions of Labubu, but some were produced in very small numbers. This scarcity made rare Labubu designs highly valuable. People began buying multiple boxes to find rare editions and started trading them online for high prices.
What Makes Labubu Special?
Labubu’s charm is in its weirdness. Unlike regular dolls that are soft and cute, Labubu has an unusual and slightly creepy design. But this “ugly-cute” look is exactly what makes it stand out.
It’s also rare. Some versions of Labubu are made in very small numbers. These limited editions are now selling for lakhs of rupees in resale markets. Collectors see it as more than a toy – it’s an art piece and even an investment.
Celebrities Made It Popular
The craze exploded when big stars were seen with Labubu. Rihanna, BLACKPINK’s Lisa, and other global icons posted photos with their Labubu dolls. In India, young Bollywood celebrities and influencers also shared pictures with Labubu, making it trendy among Gen Z and millennials.
Suddenly, owning a Labubu was no longer just about collecting toys – it became a status symbol.
The Viral Factor
Labubu’s rise on social media has been unstoppable. Instagram and YouTube are flooded with unboxing videos, aesthetic photos, and even funny memes about Labubu’s odd charm. Some fans are spending hours making creative setups for their Labubu dolls.
But there’s a downside too. Fake Labubu toys have started appearing in markets, tricking buyers. Psychologists have also warned that the blind box buying system can make people spend more than they planned, as they keep chasing rare designs.
The Story Behind the Craze
Experts say Labubu’s success is not an accident. Pop Mart knew people enjoy surprises, so they made blind boxes to make buying more exciting. Plus, the strange design appeals to modern tastes where people like unique, different-looking items.
Real or Fake? Here’s How to Check
Labubu dolls have taken over social media, but with the craze comes a flood of fake copies. Spotting a genuine one isn’t hard if you know where to look. Original Labubu toys come in high-quality boxes with clear printing, a Pop Mart hologram sticker, and a QR code to verify authenticity. Fakes often have blurry prints, missing codes, or cheap packaging.
Look closely at the face details-a real Labubu has nine neat teeth, shiny eyes, and smooth paintwork. Knockoffs usually have uneven teeth and sloppy colors. Genuine dolls also use soft, high-quality vinyl while fake ones feel light and rough. Don’t forget to check for a Pop Mart logo stamped on the foot-if it’s missing, it’s fake.
Labubu Prices: India and Beyond
In India, official Labubu blind boxes cost around ₹1,000 – ₹1,500, but rare designs sell for ₹5,000 to ₹15,000. Internationally, common dolls sell for $10 – $30, but super rare editions have gone as high as ₹1.5 crore in auctions abroad!
Why Is India Going Crazy for Labubu?
Labubu’s “ugly but cute” look has become a style statement. Young people see it as quirky and unique, unlike regular soft toys. Pop-up stores in cities like Delhi and Mumbai saw crowds lining up for hours just to grab one.
Indian celebrities have fueled the craze too. Pictures of stars carrying Labubu keychains and dolls have made them even more desirable. Add to that the mystery of blind boxes-you never know which design you’ll get, making it addictive for collectors.
The Labubu Fever: Is It Worth It?
With so many fake copies around, buyers should stay alert. If the price feels too good to be true, it probably is. Look for official stores and always verify with QR codes.
The Labubu doll isn’t just a toy anymore. For some, it’s a fashion statement; for others, it’s a rare collectible. In India, the hype shows no signs of slowing down.
Is Labubu Here to Stay?
Nobody knows if Labubu’s fame will last for years or fade like other viral trends. But right now, Labubu is everywhere, and it’s more than just a toy. For many, it’s a piece of art, a fashion statement, and even an investment.
Labubu’s story proves one thing: in today’s world, being different is not a weakness – it’s the secret to going viral.
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