Labubu Dolls Craze: Do You Need One Now?

You’ve probably seen a tiny toothy elf poking out from a cute keychain or viral reel—yes, that’s the famous Labubu doll. 

In this article, you’ll go through the heartfelt Labubu doll story, the Labubu dolls history, and why it’s earning headlines—from its Labubu doll price to its rise as a global collectible.

Here we go!

What are Labubu Dolls?

Picture a mischievous little monster with big ears, a crooked grin, and a fuzzy body—the perfect combo of adorable and unsettling. That’s Labubu dolls, originally dreamt up by Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung around 2015, inspired by Nordic legends. These characters debuted in The Monsters picture book series and were later produced as plush toys.

In 2019, Chinese collectible superstar Pop Mart snapped up the rights, and suddenly Labubu became more than art—it became an experience.

Labubu Doll History & Story

From Sketch to Pop Sensation

• 2015: Kasing Lung’s Labubu pops up in The Monsters picture series, melding fairy tales with creature vibes.
  
• 2019: Pop Mart launches “The Monsters” blind-box toy line, introducing Labubu to the collectible world.

Character DNA: The Story

Why It Blew Up?

• Blind-box thrill: You never know if you’ll get a common or a mega-rare Labubu. It’s addictive—like a tiny treasure hunt. Plus, with over 300 variations, each unboxing feels luxurious.
  
• Celebrity support: When BLACKPINK’s Lisa, Rihanna, Dua Lipa, Kim Kardashian, and even David Beckham were spotted with one, the internet exploded.
  
• Social media storm: TikTok is full of unboxing videos and #Labubu posts. The viral energy is electric.
  

Pop Mart & Labubu Doll Owner

Who Makes These Dolls?

The company behind it all is Pop Mart, a Beijing-based collectible toy brand founded in 2010 by Wang Ning.

Wang Ning’s Rise

Wang went from selling comic-phone-cover combos to building a blind-box empire. When Pop Mart IPO’ed in Hong Kong in 2020, shares skyrocketed. A big part of the company’s recent success? You guessed it—Labubu dolls.

Today, Wang Ning is one of China’s richest people. As of June 2025, his net worth is around $22.7 billion, thanks to Pop Mart’s raging popularity.

Labubu Doll Price & Price in India

Let’s talk numbers—you probably want to know the Labubu doll price, especially in India.

In India 

You’ll find small Labubu key-chain versions around ₹2,000–₹5,000. Special editions go up to ₹12,000. Retail outlets like Hype Fly India and Luxe by Kan list them for ₹4,499–₹6,950.

What Makes Labubu Dolls “Original”?

An original Labubu doll means it’s made or licensed by Pop Mart and designed by Kasing Lung—so look for the official “The Monsters” label. With counterfeit toys flooding markets, buyers should confirm authenticity. Buying through Pop Mart’s official channels, or reputable stockists in India and globally, ensures you get genuine merchandise.

The Labubu Doll Mania Worldwide

• Secondary market philosophy: Rare Labubus can re-sell at 3× or more of their retail price—some limited figures grow in value rapidly.
  
• Human-sized auctions: A mint-green, 131 cm Labubu sold for 1.08 million yuan (~$150k) at a Beijing auction—most expensive to date.
  
• Global reach: Stores in the U.S., Europe, Asia; Pop Mart has 130+ outlets and 200 vending machines outside China.
  
• Fad or forever? While some worry trends fade fast, Pop Mart reported nearly $1.8 billion in revenue in 2024, showing strong momentum.
  

Pop Mart, China, and the Bank Controversy

Even Chinese banks tried using Labubu dolls as freebies to get more deposits. Ping An Bank offered them as gifts to customers with big deposits. But regulators quickly banned this, warning that it pushes unsustainable marketing costs.

Why You Might Fall for Labubu Dolls?

1. Unbox joy: That little surprise when you crack open the blind box is dopamine central.
   
2. Cute vs ugly magic: Labubu is adorable in a quirky, imperfect way—makes you feel seen if you’re messy or awkward.
   
3. Connect and collect: Unique characters, rare editions, secondary trades—it’s social and fun.
   
4. Story-driven: Each Labubu has a backstory from the Monsters’ lore. They feel like tiny companions.
   
5. Pop-culture vibe: You’re part of a higher-brand world—celeb sightings, auctions, museum exhibits. It’s fashionable and playful.
   

Labubu Doll Pop Mart: The Business Link

The phrase Labubu doll Pop Mart means more than a product—it symbolizes a brand+story combo. Pop Mart’s team suggests toy-buying is “trendy connoisseurship”—like grabbing a limited sneaker drop. By collaborating with artists (Kasing Lung, Disney, One Piece), Pop Mart creates collectible narratives that fans connect with deeply.

Labubu’s Future: What’s Next?

• New characters & collabs: Expect more pop-culture tie-ins—One Piece, Coca-Cola, art museum editions.
  
• Labs meet tech: Pop Mart has “roboshops” vending machines and global e-commerce.
  
• Caution ahead: Regulators, trend fatigue, and imitators mean Pop Mart must innovate—or lose the buzz.
  

FAQs

Q: What is the original story of Labubu Doll?

Ans: Born in 2015, Kasing Lung’s mischievous elf-like monster came to life through picture books. Pop Mart made it global via blind-box collectibles.

Q: How much are Labubu dolls in India?

Ans: Common key-chains cost ₹2,000–₹5,000; special editions up to ₹12,000. Retail outlets list them at ₹4,499–₹6,950.

Q: Who owns Labubu dolls?

Ans: Concept by Kasing Lung, mass-marketed by Pop Mart. Founder Wang Ning reaped global success and big fame from the phenomenon.

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Final Thoughts: Is Labubu Worth It?

If toy collecting, quirky art, or being part of a global pop-culture current gives you joy, Labubu dolls are worth the thrill. From sweet surprises to fandom, they’re more than plush—they’re tiny, toothy stories you carry with you.

So, are you ready to join the Labubu fandom? Comment down your thoughts below!