Labubu Central

What is Labubu?

Labubu is a mischievous monster with a heart of gold. Created by Hong Kong–Dutch artist Kasing Lung, Labubu debuted as a character in Lung’s illustrated stories and was later transformed into a collectible toy by Pop Mart. With her pointed ears, wide eyes and signature row of nine sharp teeth, she’s instantly recognisable—part cute, part creepy. Fans describe Labubu as a viral movement wrapped in fuzzy fur and a devilish grin, and her popularity has only grown since her introduction in 2015.

Unlike many mass‑market toys, Labubu figures are released in small batches and sold blind box style: each sealed box contains one randomly assorted figure. Some boxes hide secret editions that are rarer than the standard lineup. This element of surprise, combined with limited runs and inventive themes, fuels the hunt among collectors.

Who is Kasing Lung?

Kasing Lung is a Hong Kong–born, Dutch‑raised illustrator and artist. Before working with Pop Mart, he self‑published picture books featuring whimsical creatures in enchanted forests. Labubu was one of those characters. Pop Mart discovered Lung’s work at an art fair and invited him to develop a toy line. The rest is history. Lung continues to oversee the designs, ensuring each series reflects his storytelling style and quirky humour.

In interviews and convention panels, Lung often describes Labubu as an “elf‑like creature from the fairy forest” rather than a bunny or a demon. He has stated that all Labubu characters are female and that their names carry playful meanings in Cantonese. Understanding the creator’s intent helps collectors appreciate the artistry beyond the toy itself.

Popular Series and Variants

Pop Mart has released dozens of Labubu series since 2015. Each series presents the character in a different setting, costume or role. Here are some of the most notable categories:

• The Monsters – The flagship line where Labubu first gained fame. These figures dress Labubu in monster skins and spooky outfits. Editions like “Exciting Macaron” and “Have a Seat” play with bright colours and props.
• Fairy Forest – A whimsical collection featuring forest animals and pastel hues. The Fairy Forest series is especially popular among collectors for its gentle aesthetic.
• Time Adventures – Labubu travels through history, donning costumes from different eras and cultures.
• Limited & Secret Editions – Some figures are released only in specific regions or as event exclusives. Secret editions are hidden in blind boxes and often command high resale prices.
• Collaborations – Labubu occasionally crosses over with other brands or artists, resulting in unique mash‑ups. Examples include fashion capsules and designer collaborations that blend the Labubu style with new themes.

When deciding which series to collect, think about what resonates with you: Is it the pastel whimsy of Fairy Forest or the spooky charm of The Monsters? Many collectors focus on a single line to build cohesive displays, while others hunt for secret editions across all releases.

Buying Tips & Avoiding Fakes

Because Labubu has become a global sensation, counterfeits abound. Here’s how to protect yourself:

• Buy from authorised retailers. Pop Mart operates official stores and an online shop. Trusted resellers like Blippo and reputable eBay sellers can also be safe sources. Always check seller feedback and ratings.
• Inspect the packaging. Genuine blind boxes have crisp printing, proper logos and holographic seals. Fakes often use blurry art or incorrect fonts.
• Examine the figure. Authentic Labubus have smooth paint lines, uniform colours and sturdy materials. Counterfeits might feel lighter, with sloppy paint or uneven seams.
• Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true. Rare editions seldom sell far below market price. Use price guides (see our Resources page) to gauge fair value.
• Join the community. Fellow collectors often share warnings about scam listings and tips for spotting fakes. Our Community section will host discussions and safe trading advice.

Collecting & Displaying

Building a Labubu collection is a personal journey. Some people open every box and display their figures on shelves; others keep them sealed for investment value. There’s no right way, but here are a few guidelines:

• Keep boxes if possible. Original packaging can enhance value, especially for rare editions.
• Document your collection. Track which figures you own, their edition numbers and any accessories. A simple spreadsheet or collecting app can help.
• Store figures away from direct sunlight. UV light can fade colours over time. Use display cases with UV protection if you have a sunny room.
• Share and trade wisely. Trading with other collectors is part of the fun. Always use secure payment methods and verify authenticity before trading high‑value items.

Above all, collect what makes you happy. Labubu may be a trendy toy, but the joy of the hobby comes from connecting with the story and the community.

Cultural Impact & Purpose

Labubu is more than a toy—it’s a cultural icon. In China, Kasing Lung is celebrated as one of the country’s richest artists thanks to Labubu’s success. The character’s mix of cuteness and mischief resonates with collectors around the globe. Labubu also introduced many people to designer toys and blind box culture, inspiring countless new collectors.

Pop Mart has capitalised on this cultural wave by opening flagship stores, hosting events and collaborating with fashion brands. At conventions, fans queue for hours to meet Lung or buy exclusive Labubu merch. Our goal at Labubu Central is to honour that energy and provide a trusted hub where fans can learn, connect and celebrate this adorable mischief‑maker.