You know the feeling. It’s not just about owning a cute doll. It’s the thrill of the unboxing, the hope of finding a secret, the pride of displaying a complete set, and the joy of connecting with someone across the world who shares your passion. If this sounds familiar, congratulations—you are a Labubu collector.
But what does it truly mean to be part of this global community? It’s more than just accumulating toys. It’s about understanding the art, navigating the market, and sharing the journey. As a seasoned collector, I’m here to be your guide through this wonderful, mischievous world.
Understanding Labubu Collectors
What Defines a Labubu Collector?
A Labubu collector is anyone who actively seeks to acquire these figures, but the best among us share a few key traits:
Passion: We don’t just buy; we care. We know the names of the characters, the stories behind the series, and the artist who created them, Kasing Lung.
Knowledge: We learn to distinguish an authentic Labubu from a fake ("Lafufu"). We understand the difference in rarity between a regular figure and a secret.
Community: We connect with other collectors online, share our finds, console each other over misses, and trade tips and tricks.
The History and Evolution of Labubu Collecting
The journey of a Labubu collector today is very different from what it was just a few years ago.
The Early Days (circa 2015-2019): Collecting was a niche pursuit. Fans of Kasing Lung's art sought out his "The Monsters" figures through specialty art toy stores. The community was small, tight-knit, and focused on the artistry.
The Pop Mart Era (2019-2023): The partnership with Pop Mart and the introduction of blind boxes changed everything. Collecting became more accessible and more addictive. The thrill of the hunt for specific series began.
The Global Explosion (2024-Present): With the endorsement by BLACKPINK's Lisa, Labubu became a global phenomenon. The collector base exploded overnight. Suddenly, it wasn't just art toy fans; it was fashionistas, K-pop stans, and a whole new generation of "Kidult" collectors. This era brought massive demand, instant sell-outs, and a booming secondary market. It also, unfortunately, brought a wave of counterfeits.
Today's Labubu collector navigates a world of online drops, resale platforms, authentication checks, and a vibrant, global community.
Labubu Merchandise and Where to Find It
Knowing where to look is half the battle.
Official Labubu Merchandise Sources
Your safest bet for authentic products and fair prices is always the official channels:
Pop Mart Official Website/App: The primary source for all new releases, restocks, and exclusive items.
Pop Mart Physical Stores: If you're lucky enough to live near one, the in-store experience is unbeatable. You can see the figures in person and sometimes even feel the boxes for clues.
Official Pop Mart Flagship Stores on E-commerce Platforms: They have official stores on platforms like Amazon and Tmall. Always check that you are in the official store.
Navigating the Secondary Market
When official channels are sold out (which is often), the secondary market is your next stop. But tread carefully.
Reputable Platforms: StockX authenticates items before shipping, making it a safe (though often pricier) option. eBay can be good, but you must be vigilant.
Authenticity is Key: Always examine photos closely. Look for the telltale signs of a real Labubu: the nine teeth, clean stitching, high-quality fur, and crisp packaging.
Check Seller Reputation: On eBay, only buy from sellers with a long history of positive feedback. On platforms like Mercari or Poshmark, check their ratings and reviews.
Limited Edition Collectibles: What You Need to Know
The crown jewels of any collection are the limited edition collectibles.
The Allure of Limited Edition Labubu Products
What makes these so special?
Secrets: As explained in our previous guide, "Secret" figures are ultra-rare variants hidden within standard blind box series. They have unique designs and incredibly low drop rates (like 1 in 72 or even 1 in 144 boxes). Figures like the "Grey Rainbow" from the Big Into Energy series or the dark brown DuoDuo from Have A Seat are legendary.
Collaborations: Special series created with other brands, like the Labubu x Coca-Cola collection, are produced in limited quantities and become instant collector's items.
Regional Exclusives: Sometimes, special editions are only released in specific countries (like the Thai dress Labubu), making them highly sought after by international collectors.
Strategies for Securing Limited Edition Releases
Getting your hands on these is tough, but not impossible.
Stay Informed: Follow Pop Mart on social media and sign up for their newsletters. Join collector communities where members share "restock alerts" and drop information instantly.
Be Ready: Drops happen at specific times and sell out in minutes. Have your account logged in, payment info saved, and be refreshing the page right at the drop time.
Consider the Resale Market: If you miss the drop, be prepared to pay a premium on the secondary market. Set a budget for yourself before you start hunting.
The Importance of Community
Collecting Labubu alone is fun. Collecting Labubu with friends is a whole new level of joy.
Joining the Labubu Newsletter for Updates
While Pop Mart's official communications are essential, don't overlook fan-run resources. Some collectors create their own labubu newsletters or blogs where they aggregate news, share tips, and highlight upcoming releases. A quick Google search can uncover some gems.
Engaging with Fellow Collectors Online
This is where the real magic happens.
Reddit: Subreddits like r/labubu and r/PopMartCollectors are invaluable. You'll find everything from "Is this real?" authentication posts to stunning collection photos, trading threads, and detailed guides created by fellow collectors.
Facebook Groups: There are numerous large, active Labubu collector groups on Facebook. They are great for seeing what others are finding and connecting with sellers.
Instagram and TikTok: Follow hashtags like #labubucollector, #labubucollection, and #labubuhunt to see unboxings, collection tours, and customization ideas. You can also connect with individual collectors whose taste you admire.
Tips and Tricks for New Collectors
Starting out can be overwhelming. Here’s my advice.
Essential Tips for Starting Your Collection
Start with a Series You Love: Don't just buy any Labubu. Look at the different series—"Tasty Macaron," "Have A Seat," "The Monsters" classic figures—and choose one whose aesthetic speaks to you.
Learn the Authentication Basics: Before you spend any real money, memorize the "nine-tooth rule." It will save you from buying a Lafufu.
Set a Budget: It's easy to get carried away. Decide how much you're comfortable spending per month and try to stick to it. The thrill of the hunt shouldn't lead to financial stress.
Buy What You Love: Don't get obsessed with "value" or rarity. Collect the figures that make you happy. A complete set of regulars you adore is better than one secret you're not that keen on.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Impulse Buying Fakes: If a deal on a rare Labubu looks too good to be true, it absolutely is.
Ignoring the Community: The knowledge shared in collector forums is your best resource. Don't be shy; ask questions!
Getting Discouraged by Misses: You will buy blind boxes and get duplicates. You will miss out on drops. It happens to everyone. The key is to enjoy the process and celebrate the wins when they come.
Conclusion: The Heart of the Hobby
Ultimately, being a Labubu collector is about more than just the objects. It's about the excitement of the unknown, the satisfaction of completing a set, the creativity of displaying your collection, and the friendships you forge along the way. We are a diverse group brought together by a shared love for a mischievous, nine-toothed elf.
So, welcome to the club. May your unboxings be lucky, your collection grow, and your connections with fellow collectors be many. Happy hunting!
