Looking for the latest collectible craze? Meet Labubu. This quirky, elf-like figure blends art, mystery, and pop culture. Discover its irresistible charm, viral fame, and where to find authentic Labubu ones in Malaysia.
What is Labubu?
Labubu isn't just a toy. It's key to modern collectible culture. Hong Kong designer Kasing Lung created Labubu in 2015. It debuted as the main character in "The Monsters," an ongoing series about a misfit tribe. Lung has roots in both Hong Kong and the Netherlands. He drew from Nordic fairy tales. This gave Labubu a unique backstory and a distinctive look. Labubu sports a furry, round body with large, wide eyes and pointy ears. Its trademark grin shows exactly nine sharp teeth.
The Labubu character exudes mischievous energy, looking both innocent and devilish in equal measure. This personality, combined with its memorable appearance, set it apart from other designer toys. The original Labubu toys were produced in small runs by Hong Kong’s How2Work but remained relatively niche until a pivotal partnership with Pop Mart—a China-based toy company famous for its blind box model—opened Labubu to a global audience in 2019.
Labubu lives in a fantastical universe. It's part of "The Monsters" tribe. This tribe includes many other characters: Zimomo, the spooky leader; Mokoko; timid Pato; Spooky; and Tycoco, Labubu's "skeleton" companion. Every character has a unique personality, but Labubu always steals the spotlight.
Early Labubu releases were often limited to small art exhibitions and boutique toy stores, making Labubu a cult favorite among dedicated collectors. The Pop Mart partnership, however, turned Labubu into an international obsession. With a mix of mystery, art, and storytelling, Labubu captured the imaginations of both young fans and nostalgic adults looking for something fresh and captivating for their Labubu collection.
Why is Labubu Famous?
Labubu quickly became an icon thanks to a perfect storm of trends in art, fashion, and modern collecting.
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Distinctive
Ugly-Cute Design:
Labubu’s "ugly-cute" look—a mischievous but lovable expression, quirky proportions, and its iconic toothy grin—sets it apart from mainstream plush toys or collectibles. Fans are drawn to its charm, which blurs the line between playful and slightly devilish, making it a conversation starter for anyone who spots a Labubu toy. -
The
Blind Box Phenomenon:
A huge factor in Labubu’s stardom is Pop Mart’s adoption of the blind box format. Each box contains a random Labubu or Monster tribe figure. Customers don’t know which design they’ll get until they unwrap it, which adds the excitement of chance to every purchase. Some Labubu designs, known as "secret editions," are incredibly hard to find, with odds as tough as one in seventy boxes. This scarcity makes acquiring a full Labubu set or a rare Labubu a thrilling quest. -
Fashion
Accessory Crossover:
Labubu isn’t just a desk ornament. The plush versions, especially keychain pendants, have become bona fide accessories. With high-quality build and bold designs, they’re seen dangling from handbags, backpacks, and even belt loops. As a result, Labubu crosses over from a toy into the realm of daily style—an unusual but impactful shift that fuels its popularity. -
Celebrity
Endorsement and Viral Trends:
Nothing shakes up a trend like celebrity endorsement. Labubu’s popularity soared in April 2024 when Lisa from Blackpink flashed a Labubu keychain on her bag, instantly igniting demand across Asia and worldwide. Other megastars such as Rihanna and Dua Lipa have since been seen with Labubu charms, pushing them beyond niche communities into the mainstream. -
Exclusive,
Limited Edition Drops:
Pop Mart keeps Labubu fresh and in demand by producing limited runs, special collaborations, and event-only releases. Labubu drops frequently sell out within moments. The thrill of scarcity and exclusivity spurs fans to act quickly—or face sky-high prices in the resale market for a Labubu toy. -
Nostalgia
Meets Modern Collecting:
Labubu occupies a sweet spot between youthful fun and adult nostalgia. Its blend of classic folklore inspiration and inventive design draws collectors of all ages. The act of unwrapping a Labubu blind box appeals to kid-like curiosity, while older collectors appreciate the craftsmanship, backstory, and communal chase for ultra-rare Labubu figures. -
Widespread
Social Media Buzz:
From TikTok unboxings to Instagram outfit shots, Labubu floods social media feeds worldwide. Hashtags and fan groups keep the excitement alive, while new Labubu release teasers and cryptic hints from designers stoke anticipation. This digital word-of-mouth has broadened Labubu’s appeal far beyond Asia, reaching fans in Europe, the Americas, and beyond.
The Psychology Behind Labubu Fandom
Beyond the obvious, Labubu's appeal taps into a deeper psychological draw. The "blind box" format provides intermittent rewards, similar to slot machines, fostering an addictive collecting habit for Labubu figures. Each exclusive or collaborative Labubu release feels like a lottery or treasure hunt, making ownership about more than just a cute toy. It's about belonging to a global Labubu community, celebrating shared successes, and recapturing the magic of childhood in a mature way.
Where and How to Get Authentic Labubu Figures
Given the immense popularity of Labubu figures, it's no shock that demand significantly exceeds supply, particularly for the most coveted editions. If you've attempted to purchase one directly from Pop Mart's website, app, or flagship stores, you've likely encountered the immediate "sold out" message and witnessed how quickly stock disappears. Here’s an overview of what you need to understand about the current Labubu buying landscape:
The Official Route: Direct Purchases and Pre-Orders
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Pop
Mart Flagship and Online Drops:
Pop Mart frequently releases new Labubu and "The Monsters" series across their main shopping app, select retail shops in malls, and flagship stores in major Asian cities. However, high-profile drops—especially those linked to celebrity favorites or limited collaborations—tend to sell out within minutes, if not seconds. -
Pre-Orders:
Occasionally, Pop Mart and authorized partners offer pre-orders for upcoming Labubu sets. This can grant you a better chance of securing a specific series or character, but you’ll be buying sight unseen—and popular Labubu designs may still slip through your fingers due to overwhelming demand. -
Lottery
Releases:
For ultra-rare Labubu figures, lotteries are sometimes held, with collectors registering in advance and only a lucky few earning the right to purchase their Labubu toy.
The reality? Unless you’re incredibly lucky or lightning-fast, these official routes can be frustrating when trying to buy Labubu. They also require ongoing vigilance to stay ahead of restocks and announcements.
The Secondary Market: Resellers and Specialist Stores
Given official shortages, most collectors turn to the resale market for reliable access to their favorite Labubu figures.
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Verified
Collectible Shops: Shield Against Fakes:
In Malaysia, STEALPLUG KL and STEALPLUG Genting are standout destinations for authentic Labubu enthusiasts. These physical stores offer a comprehensive range of Labubu figures—all sourced directly from legitimate channels. Every piece sold is guaranteed real, giving you peace of mind and eliminating the risk of accidentally buying a counterfeit Labubu. -
Convenience
and Instant Gratification:
STEALPLUG operates with ready stock, so you don’t wait weeks for shipping or risk missing out on pre-order windows when you want to buy Labubu Malaysia. You can shop in person or online at stealplug.com.my and walk away with the Labubu you want, without the stress. -
Expert
Staff and Collector Support:
The team at STEALPLUG understands the nuances that set genuine Labubu apart from imitators. They’re well-versed in version histories, edition differentiators, and proper care tips—so you always have a guide as you build your Labubu collection.
The Counterfeit Crisis
Labubu's fame, unfortunately, has spawned a massive counterfeit market. A staggering 99% of Labubu figures found on e-marketplaces and vending machines across Southeast Asia are fake. These aren’t just amateur knock-offs—many are frighteningly convincing, from packaging to details. For beginner collectors, telling fake from real can be almost impossible.
Buying fakes undermines the value of real Labubu, and in some cases, supports questionable manufacturing practices. A genuine Labubu is not only a prized collectible, but a piece of art and licensed design. That’s why sticking to reputable shops like STEALPLUG is strongly advised when looking to buy Labubu.
Online Buying Tips for Labubu Collectors
If you’re searching online for a Labubu toy:
- Always Verify the Seller: Check their reputation, reviews, and whether they’re authorized resellers of Pop Mart or Kasing Lung’s designs.
- Examine the Packaging: Authentic Labubu comes with precise labeling, holograms, and art-quality packaging. Unprofessional spelling errors, low-res images, or odd fonts can be red flags.
- Pricing Paranoia: If a “rare” Labubu is deeply discounted, it’s likely too good to be true. Pop Mart prices are consistent, and true resale market rates for rarities will never be bargain-basement.
- Community Wisdom: Engage with local collector groups or online Labubu communities. Experienced members can help you spot fakes or warn of suspect sellers.
Building Your Own Labubu Collection
Whether you’re new to Labubu or already smitten, collecting this character can be a deeply rewarding journey. Here are some strategies for getting the most from your Labubu hunt:
- Start with a Theme: Some fans collect every version of classic Labubu, others aim for collaborations (for instance, seasonal Halloween or artist editions), while still more pursue the rare “secret” Labubu figures.
- Swap and Share: Community-driven swapping events, both online and in person at stores like STEALPLUG, let you trade duplicates and socialize with fellow Labubu fans.
- Display Ideas: Labubus are display-friendly due to their vibrant colors and whimsical designs. Mini shelves, shadow boxes, or custom cases highlight your favorites, and themed arrangements can tell your own “Monster tribe” story for your Labubu collection.
- Documentation: Keep boxes and packaging—limited edition details can vastly increase a figure’s long-term value. Maintaining an itemized list helps track wanted, owned, and rare Labubu pieces.
- Family Fun: With Labubu’s intergenerational appeal, collecting becomes a shared hobby. Parents and children alike enjoy the fun of a “blind box” reveal, while serious collectors appreciate the design sophistication of each Labubu toy.
Maintaining and Storing Collectibles
Labubu plush and vinyl figures are built for durability, but care extends their lifespan:
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Store in cool, shaded areas to prevent color fading of your Labubu figures.
- Clean Gently: Use a soft cloth or brush to remove dust. For Labubu plush, spot-clean by hand.
- Protection from Moisture: Keep Labubu figures dry—especially if storing in boxes long-term.
The Future of Labubu: Icon Status Awaits
Labubu has broken free from the confines of typical art toys. Its captivating smile, engaging origin story, and knack for blending youthful charm with contemporary style guarantee its lasting appeal. Look for Labubu to influence trends well beyond just toys as new partnerships, narratives, and artistic takes emerge.
For those on the hunt, Malaysia’s STEALPLUG locations and website remain the premier source for every iteration—offering assurance, expertise, and the full spectrum of this delightful monster’s universe. With the global appetite for unique, statement-making collectibles only growing, Labubu is set to become the defining mascot of a new collecting generation.
Conclusion
Labubu: More Than a Collectible. This iconic character effortlessly blends art, nostalgia, and contemporary culture. Start your Labubu collection with confidence at STEALPLUG KL, Genting, or shop authentic Labubu finds online at stealplug.com.my. For more information, WhatsApp us at +60 17-794 3449.