Charles Esther
Labubu toys have become one of the hottest collectibles in the US, creating a frenzy among adults searching for the perfect plush monster.
What began as an underground craze in Asia has now exploded into a global phenomenon.
Labubu toys are no longer easy to find online or in stores, and fans are getting creative just to snag one.
What Are Labubu Toys and Why Are They So Popular?
Labubu toys are small plush monsters created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung.
They belong to “The Monsters” line by Pop Mart, a Chinese toy company that has seen its revenue double in 2024.
Unlike traditional plush toys, Labubus are specifically marketed toward adults, blending nostalgia with luxury appeal.
Their strange toothy smiles, unique textures, and mysterious vibe have made them both collectibles and accessories.
Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram have only fueled their popularity across the US, UK, and Asia.
The Struggle to Buy a Labubu in the United States
Buying a Labubu in the US is far from simple.
Shoppers can’t just walk into a store or browse a website to find one in stock.
Instead, Pop Mart releases Labubus during limited “drops” through their official site and TikTok livestreams.
Fans must wait, watch, and act within seconds to secure one.
The smaller keychain-size Labubus start around $22, while larger plush figures can cost up to $180.
But availability is the real challenge—not price.
Live Shopping Streams and the Rise of Pop Mart on TikTok
Pop Mart has turned TikTok into a shopping battleground.
Their live shopping streams showcase Labubus in real time, though there’s no guarantee when or if one will appear.
Fans must stay glued to the livestream for hours and be ready to tap fast when a toy is shown.
It’s a mix of patience, speed, and luck.
Many users compare the experience to QVC, but with a Gen Z twist.
In-Store Shopping and Limited Inventory
Pop Mart has a few physical locations in major cities like New York.
However, fans report that in-store visits rarely guarantee success.
In the UK, Pop Mart paused in-store sales entirely due to overwhelming demand and long lines.
This has only intensified the desire to own a Labubu, making them feel even more exclusive.
The Psychology Behind the Labubu Obsession
The harder it became to get a Labubu, the more people wanted one.
Psychologists call this the scarcity effect—when something is hard to obtain, it instantly feels more valuable.
The toys’ soft textures and strange appearances appeal to both collectors and casual buyers.
They’re comforting, weird, and shareable on social media—perfect for today’s online culture.
Labubu Knockoffs Are Popping Up Everywhere
As demand for Labubus surges, knockoffs are appearing in street stalls and gift shops.
One popular imitation is called “Lafufu,” a cheaper, less polished version of the original.
Some buyers settle for these alternatives out of frustration, while others embrace them as part of the culture.
Despite their differences, Lafufus still provide a similar thrill for fans who just want to join the trend.
Pop Now—A New Way to Win a Labubu
Pop Mart introduced a new game called Pop Now, adding another layer to the chase.
Each night, fans can log in and click through numbered virtual boxes to find hidden Labubus.
If they’re fast enough, they can “shake” a box and buy the toy inside.
However, with so many players trying at once, success is rare.
This leads many users to explore hacks and tricks just to improve their chances.
Reddit and Online Communities Share Buying Secrets
The Labubu subreddit has become a treasure trove of advice and support.
Fans swap strategies, including one that involves modifying the product page URL to view hidden lots early.
This trick helped one determined fan finally order a pink Labubu—officially named “Lychee Berry”—directly from China.
Online communities have become vital for navigating the unpredictable world of Labubu drops.
Labubu Fever Reflects a Larger Trend in American Spending
Labubu’s popularity reveals what Americans are willing to spend on, even amid economic uncertainty.
Like Beanie Babies or Tamagotchis before them, Labubus tap into nostalgia and collector psychology.
They’re cute, quirky, exclusive—and most importantly, they feel personal.
In a world full of mass production, Labubu offers buyers a sense of uniqueness and connection.
Final Thoughts—Why We Keep Chasing Weird Little Toys
Labubu isn’t just a plush toy.
It’s a symbol of modern consumer behavior, driven by emotion, community, and the joy of the hunt.
You probably don’t need one.
But if you see one dangling from someone’s bag, you might feel a strange envy—and understand why people go to such lengths.
Whether you’re a Labubu lover or still wondering what the fuss is about, one thing is clear.
These little monsters are taking over the world, one toothy grin at a time.
