The Labubu phenomenon has swept across social media, toy stores, and even high-fashion circles, with these quirky, toothy creatures popping up everywhere from keychains to million-dollar auctions. If you’re wondering what a Labubu is, why it’s so popular, or how to get your hands on one—especially the coveted “Have a Seat” series—this article has you covered. Let’s break it down with fresh insights, practical tips, and everything you need to know to join the Labubu craze without falling for fakes or overpaying.
What Is a Labubu? Unpacking the Mischievous Monster
Labubu is a collectible plush toy created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, inspired by Nordic folklore. Part of “The Monsters” series, Labubu is a small, elf-like creature with pointy ears, nine sharp teeth, and a mischievous grin that’s equal parts cute and quirky. First introduced in 2015 as a storybook character, Labubu became a global sensation after partnering with Chinese toymaker Pop Mart in 2019. The toys are sold in “blind boxes,” meaning you don’t know which design you’ll get until you open it, adding a thrill-of-the-chase element that collectors love.
What makes Labubu stand out? It’s the mix of playful design and scarcity. Each figure comes in unique outfits, colors, and expressions, with rare “secret” editions that drive fans wild. For example, a mint-green Labubu sold for $170,000 at a Beijing auction in June 2025, showing just how intense the demand can be. The toys blur the line between kid’s plaything and fashion statement, often spotted dangling from designer bags or styled with tiny custom outfits.
Why the Hype?
- Celebrity Boost: K-pop star Lisa from Blackpink sparked a frenzy in 2024 by flaunting a Labubu keychain, with stars like Rihanna and Emma Roberts jumping on board.
- Collectible Appeal: With over 300 variants since 2019, the hunt for rare designs fuels obsession.
- Social Media Buzz: TikTok’s #Labubu hashtag has millions of views, with unboxing videos racking up thousands of likes.
The “Have a Seat” Labubu Series: A Collector’s Dream
The “Have a Seat” series, launched in July 2024, is one of Labubu’s most popular collections. These vinyl plush dolls feature softer, furrier material and come in seated poses with tonal ring clasps for attaching to bags or keys. Each figure has one of three expressions—eyes open, blinking, or closed—making them extra expressive. The series includes six regular designs and a rare “secret” edition, which collectors chase for its unique black fur and rainbow teeth.
Here’s the thing: these dolls sell out fast. Fans line up for hours at Pop Mart stores, and online drops vanish in minutes. The “Have a Seat” blind box retails for about $27.99, but resale prices on platforms like StockX can hit $150 or more for rare figures. The table below breaks down the key details of this series.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Date | July 2024 |
| Price (Retail) | $27.99 per blind box; $167.94 for a set of six |
| Designs | Six regular figures + one secret (black fur, rainbow teeth) |
| Material | Soft, furry vinyl with movable head, arms, and feet |
| Expressions | Eyes open, blinking, or closed |
| Availability | Pop Mart stores, website, Amazon, TikTok Live drops, resale platforms |
Pros and Cons of Collecting “Have a Seat” Labubu
- Pros:
- Adorable, versatile designs perfect for display or as bag charms.
- High resale value for rare editions.
- Soft, durable material ideal for everyday use.
- Cons:
- Blind box format means you might not get your preferred design.
- Limited stock leads to quick sellouts.
- Risk of counterfeits (aka “Lafufu”) on unofficial platforms.
The “Have a Seat” series is a great entry point for new collectors, but the blind box gamble and fast sellouts can be frustrating. If you’re after a specific design, you might need patience or a bigger budget for resale markets.
Where to Buy Labubu: Trusted Sources for Authentic Dolls
Finding a genuine Labubu can feel like a treasure hunt, especially with counterfeits flooding the market. Pop Mart is the exclusive retailer, and their official channels are your safest bet. Here’s where to look and how to avoid fakes.
Official Pop Mart Channels
- Pop Mart Website and App: The best place for new releases, but stock disappears fast. Sign up for restock notifications or follow their social media (@popmart_us, @popmartglobal) for drop alerts. A single “Have a Seat” blind box costs $27.99, while a set of six is $167.94.
- Pop Mart Stores and RoboShops: Physical stores restock weekly, often on Fridays at 10 a.m. local time. RoboShops are vending machines stocked with blind boxes, found in malls or Pop Mart locations. Check Pop Mart’s “Find a Store” page for locations near you.
- TikTok Live Drops: Pop Mart’s TikTok channels (@popmart.usshop, @popmartunboxing.us) host live sales every Thursday. Pro tip: add items to your cart and refresh often, as restocks can happen randomly during streams.
Online Retailers
- Amazon’s Pop Mart Storefront: Offers reliable shipping and returns, with blind boxes starting at $27.99. Always verify the seller is Pop Mart to avoid fakes.
- AliExpress: A riskier option with lower prices, but counterfeits are common. Stick to sellers with high ratings and “authentic” labels. Check reviews and product photos carefully.
Resale Platforms
- StockX and Kicks Crew: Great for rare or sold-out designs, but prices are higher ($62–$700). StockX verifies authenticity, making it a safer choice. For example, a “Have a Seat” secret edition recently sold for $310.
- eBay: Offers a mix of new and used Labubus, but beware of “Lafufu” fakes. Check seller feedback and look for official packaging with Pop Mart’s logo and QR code.
How to Spot a Fake Labubu
Counterfeits, often called “Lafufu,” are a big issue. Here’s how to ensure you’re getting the real deal:
- Packaging: Authentic Labubus come in sealed boxes with Pop Mart’s logo, a QR code, and a holographic sticker.
- Quality: Real Labubus have crisp paint, even stitching, and a soft, furry texture. Fakes often have sloppy details or strange proportions.
- Verification Apps: Use apps like LEGIT APP to scan the QR code and confirm authenticity.
| Platform | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Pop Mart Website | Guaranteed authentic, latest releases | Sells out quickly, limited stock |
| Amazon (Pop Mart) | Fast shipping, easy returns | Fewer rare designs |
| StockX | Verified authenticity, rare finds | Higher prices, resale market |
| AliExpress | Lower prices, wide selection | Risk of counterfeits, slower shipping |
How Much Is a Labubu? Breaking Down the Costs
Labubu prices vary widely based on size, series, and rarity. Here’s a clear breakdown to help you budget.
- Standard Blind Box: $27.99 for a single box (e.g., “Have a Seat” or “Exciting Macaron”). A set of six costs $167.94.
- Larger Figures: Mega-sized Labubus (31 inches) retail for $960, but rare editions can fetch $10,000–$170,000 at auctions.
- Resale Market: Common designs sell for $50–$150 on StockX or eBay. Secret editions or collabs (like Vans or One Piece) can hit $700–$31,250.
- Custom Accessories: Tiny outfits or cases for Labubus cost $5–$30 on Etsy or AliExpress.
For collectors, the cost can add up. To get all regular figures in a series, you might spend $510 on about 30 blind boxes. A secret figure could require 221 boxes, costing around $3,755, according to collector estimates. Always check recent sales on Labubu Price Check (labubupricecheck.com) for real-time resale values.
Why Labubu Matters: More Than Just a Toy
Labubu isn’t just a plush doll—it’s a cultural phenomenon. Its blend of quirky design, celebrity endorsements, and blind-box excitement has made it a status symbol for Gen Z and millennials. In Thailand, Labubu’s popularity exploded in 2024 after a royal endorsement and a Bangkok airport event, driving sales up 478% in Southeast Asia. Pop Mart’s revenue from plush toys jumped 1,200% in 2024, with Labubu leading the charge.
What this really means is Labubu taps into our love for surprise, scarcity, and self-expression. Fans don’t just collect them; they style them, share them on TikTok, and build communities around them. A recent X post from @LaliceUpdates (July 28, 2025) noted, “K-pop star #LISA’s fondness for the plush doll Labubu sparked a surge in demand,” highlighting how one celebrity can ignite a global trend.
Final Thoughts: Should You Join the Labubu Craze?
Labubu is more than a toy—it’s a collectible, a fashion statement, and a cultural moment. Whether you’re drawn to the “Have a Seat” series for its soft, furry charm or the thrill of unboxing a rare secret edition, the key is to shop smart. Stick to trusted sources like Pop Mart or StockX, watch out for fakes, and set a budget to avoid overspending on resale markets. With a little patience and strategy, you can snag a Labubu that’s uniquely yours.
Want to dive deeper into spotting authentic Labubus? Check out WikiHow’s guide on real vs. fake Labubus for practical tips. For the latest drops and collector news, follow Pop Mart’s official TikTok or visit Labubu World for updates. Happy hunting!
