You’ve felt it. That electric mix of hope and anxiety as you tear open a blind box, knowing that somewhere out there—maybe in this very package—is the one. The figure you’ve seen in grainy photos on forums, the one that sells for ten times its original price, the one that makes fellow collectors gasp when you post a picture. You’re hunting for a hard to find Labubu.
Welcome to the ultimate challenge of this hobby. As a long-time collector, I’ve felt the thrill of the chase and the sting of defeat more times than I can count. In this guide, we’ll explore the rarest of the rare, understand what makes them so elusive, and share some hard-won tips on how to increase your chances of bringing one home.
Why Are Labubus So Hard to Get?
Before we dive into specific figures, let’s address the fundamental question every new collector asks: why are labubus so hard to get? The answer lies in Pop Mart's brilliant, and sometimes frustrating, business model.
The Blind Box Mechanism
Labubus are primarily sold as "blind boxes." You pay for a sealed box, but you don’t know which figure from the series is inside until you open it. This element of surprise is a huge part of the fun, but it also means you can’t simply buy the specific doll you want.
The Secret Rarity
Within each series, hidden among the regular figures, are one or two "Secret" editions. These figures are not pictured on the outer packaging. They feature unique designs—often dramatically different colorways or special details—and are inserted into the production run at extremely low rates. We’re talking about drop rates of 1 in 72 boxes, 1 in 144, or even rarer. This is the primary reason some Labubus are virtually impossible to find through regular purchase.
Scarcity and Hype
The combination of blind boxes, ultra-rare secrets, and massive global demand creates a perfect storm of scarcity. Figures sell out in minutes online, and shelves are empty in stores. This drives collectors to the secondary market, where prices for these hard to find Labubu can skyrocket.
The Holy Grails: Most Wanted Secret Labubu
Over the years, certain secret figures have achieved legendary status. They are the ones every collector dreams of. Based on community consensus and market data, here are some of the most sought-after.
1. Labubu Have A Seat Secret: DuoDuo
Series: The Monsters – Have A Seat (V2)
Rarity: Extremely rare (estimated 1 in 72 or 1 in 144 boxes)
What Makes It Special: This is the secret of the wildly popular "Have A Seat" series. Unlike the regular figures with their pastel colors, DuoDuo is a stunning, deep dark brown. She features the signature secret red nose and, upon close inspection, has an extra twinkle in her eye that adds to her charm. Her rich, sophisticated color and the difficulty of pulling her from a box make her one of the ultimate prizes.
2. Labubu Big Into Energy Secret: The Grey Rainbow
Series: The Monsters – Big Into Energy
Rarity: Ultra-rare (estimated 1 in 144 boxes)
What Makes It Special: Often called the "grey rainbow labubu" or "grey Labubu with rainbow teeth," this figure is a visual powerhouse. It features a soft, dark grey furry suit, creating a striking contrast with its most defining feature: iridescent, rainbow-colored eyes and teeth that seem to shimmer and catch the light. It's a completely unique and mesmerizing design that stands out from any other Labubu. The extremely low drop rate and its stunning aesthetics make it one of the most valuable and coveted secrets on the market.
3. Labubu Secret Coca-Cola
Series: The Monsters x Coca-Cola Collaboration
Rarity: Ultra-rare (collaboration series secret)
What Makes It Special: This figure benefits from being part of a limited collaboration series, which is already harder to find than mainline releases. The secret is presented in a special metallic red Coca-Cola can. Inside, you discover a Labubu plush nestled inside, with its large ears poking out of the top, as if it's chilling in an ice-cold drink. The combination of a beloved global brand, the unique "stuck in a can" presentation, and its secret rarity makes this a cult favorite and a true collector's item.
Honorable Mentions: Other Hard-to-Find Gems
Labubu Tasty Macaron Secret: Chestnut Cocoa: The dark brown secret from the V1 series that started the plush pendant craze. Its rich color and red nose set it apart from the pastel regulars.
Early and Retired Series: Figures from the very first Labubu vinyl face doll series, released before the current explosion in popularity, are increasingly hard to find and valuable, especially if kept in mint condition.
Tips for New Collectors: How to Hunt for Rares
So, how do you even begin to look for these elusive treasures? Here’s advice from the trenches.
Where to Buy and How to Search
Official Pop Mart Channels: Your primary source should always be the official Pop Mart website, app, or physical stores. This guarantees authenticity and gives you a shot at the official drop rates.
Reputable Resale Platforms: If you want to bypass the luck factor and go straight for a specific secret, platforms like PopNya (which authenticates items) or eBay (with careful seller vetting) are your best bets. Be prepared to pay the market price.
Join Collector Communities: Reddit (r/labubu, r/PopMartCollectors), Facebook groups, and Discord servers are invaluable. Collectors often share "restock alerts," tips on where to find boxes, and even "weight lists" that might help identify heavier secret boxes (though this is not a foolproof science). You can also find reputable sellers within these communities.
The Importance of Patience and Authenticity
Patience is a Virtue: The hunt for a hard to find Labubu is a marathon, not a sprint. You might go through dozens of boxes without a secret. That's normal. The joy comes from the eventual, unexpected discovery.
Authenticity is Everything: When a figure is this valuable, fakes (Lafufus) abound. If buying on the secondary market, absolutely insist on proof of purchase and examine photos for authenticity markers—especially the nine teeth rule and quality of details. A "deal" on a rare secret is almost always a trap.
Collect What You Love: While chasing secrets is exciting, remember to enjoy the entire series. The regular figures have their own unique charm, and a complete set is a beautiful thing.
Conclusion: The Thrill of the Chase
The world of hard to find Labubu figures is what elevates this hobby from simple collecting to a passionate pursuit. It’s about the stories—the friend who pulled a DuoDuo on their first try, the collector who traded their way to a Grey Rainbow, the hours spent watching unboxing videos and learning the weights.
These rare monsters are more than just plastic and plush. They are symbols of luck, dedication, and a shared community obsession. So, keep hunting, keep hoping, and keep that spirit of excitement alive. Your holy grail might be just one blind box away.
