Labubu has become one of the most beloved characters in the world of designer toys, capturing the hearts of collectors across the globe. With its mischievous grin, playful personality, and mysterious backstory, labubu this creature by artist Kasing Lung has evolved from a niche art toy to a cultural icon. Produced mainly by the Hong Kong-based company POP MART and How2Work, Labubu’s journey through limited editions, special collaborations, and exclusive releases has made it a centerpiece of modern toy collecting. For those serious about building a rare Labubu collection, understanding the origins, variations, and significance of each release is essential.
The Origins of Labubu
Before diving into the rare figures, it’s important to understand where Labubu came from. The character was born from the imagination of Belgian artist Kasing Lung, who is known for his dreamlike, sometimes eerie illustrations. Labubu is part of his “The Monsters” universe—a world filled with whimsical yet unsettling creatures that explore the boundaries between innocence and darkness.
The very first Labubu figures appeared in limited art shows and small releases before being picked up by POP MART, which transformed the character into a global collectible phenomenon. Each release tells a different story, representing not just a toy but a piece of art history in miniature form.
What Makes a Labubu Figure Rare
Rarity in the Labubu world comes down to three main factors: edition size, distribution method, and collaboration. Many figures are released in blind boxes, meaning collectors must rely on luck to find the figure they want. Some are limited to special events like ToySoul or Taipei Toy Festival, while others are collaboration pieces that exist only in tiny quantities.
Additionally, the craftsmanship and detail of each figure often vary between series, making some versions more sought after due to superior paintwork, material, or conceptual depth. For a serious collector, these distinctions are what separate a common Labubu from a legendary one.
The Classic Labubu: A Collector’s Starting Point
Every collector begins somewhere, and for most, it starts with the classic Labubu design. The original version embodies the essence of the character—its wild hair, sharp teeth, and big eyes that strike a balance between cute and creepy. Released under “The Monsters” series, the first few runs of Labubu figures were small, and early pieces are now hard to find.
These early editions, particularly those signed by Kasing Lung, are often considered foundational items in any serious Labubu collection. They represent the birth of an era and capture the raw spirit of the artist before the figure became a mainstream sensation.
The Labubu x POP MART Collaborations
Once POP MART came into the picture, Labubu’s world expanded dramatically. The “Forest Series” and “Fairy Tale Series” introduced fans to imaginative variations inspired by nature and classic stories. However, within these lines, several figures stand out as exceptionally rare due to their limited production.
For example, the “Labubu Wizard” and “Labubu Pumpkin” figures from the early Forest Series are now prized collector’s pieces, often selling for several times their original retail price. Likewise, chase figures—secret variants hidden in blind boxes—add another layer of rarity. These hidden editions are randomly inserted, making them exciting to hunt and valuable on the resale market.
The Event-Exclusive Labubu Figures
One of the defining features of Labubu collecting is the thrill of exclusivity. Many of the rarest Labubus are event exclusives, released only at specific conventions or art fairs. For instance, the “Labubu Angel” and “Labubu Demon” versions were available in extremely limited numbers during Asian toy festivals, each symbolizing the duality of innocence and mischief that defines the character.
Collectors often travel across countries just to attend these events, hoping to secure a figure before it disappears into private collections. Some releases even require pre-registration, lotteries, or secret purchase codes, which only adds to the mystique surrounding these figures.
Artist Collaborations and Special Editions
Beyond POP MART’s commercial lines, Kasing Lung has collaborated with several brands and artists to produce Labubu figures that blend fine art with collectible culture. These collaborations often feature unique materials, hand-painted finishes, or custom packaging, making them stand out from the mass-produced versions.
The “Labubu x How2Work” editions, for instance, are known for their exquisite craftsmanship and artistic presentation. These pieces often come in wooden boxes or with certificates of authenticity, emphasizing their nature as art rather than toys. Some collaborations even extend into fashion or design, where Labubu appears on apparel or in lifestyle products, further expanding the character’s cultural footprint.
The Mythical Grails of Labubu Collecting
Among serious collectors, certain Labubu figures are spoken of with near-mythical reverence. The “Rainbow Labubu,” released in very small numbers, is one of these holy grails. Its dazzling gradient of colors and ethereal finish make it an unforgettable piece. Similarly, the “Labubu Glow-in-the-Dark” edition has become a symbol of the early collector community’s dedication.
Then there are the artist-exclusive versions, often released only at Kasing Lung’s personal exhibitions. These figures can feature hand-painted details, signed certificates, or special packaging that distinguish them from standard releases. Once sold out, they rarely reappear, cementing their status as treasures within the collector world.
The Rise of the Global Labubu Market
What began as a niche art toy has grown into a global collector market spanning Asia, Europe, and the Americas. With the rise of online marketplaces and social media, Labubu collectors now connect, trade, and showcase their collections across borders.
However, this growing popularity also brings challenges. Counterfeit figures and unofficial reproductions have become a concern, pushing collectors to rely on trusted sellers and official sources. Many collectors have turned to online communities, where experienced fans share authentication tips and release information to help each other avoid scams.
The Emotional Side of Collecting Labubu
Beyond rarity and value, Labubu collecting is deeply emotional. Each figure tells a story, not just of its creation but of the collector’s journey in finding it. The thrill of unboxing a rare chase, the satisfaction of completing a series, and the friendships built in the process give the hobby a personal dimension that transcends material ownership.
For many fans, Labubu represents nostalgia, imagination, and the childlike wonder that Kasing Lung weaves into his designs. Owning a rare Labubu isn’t just about having a valuable collectible—it’s about preserving a piece of contemporary art that reflects both innocence and mischief in perfect balance.
How to Begin Your Rare Labubu Journey
For newcomers hoping to enter this fascinating world, the best approach is patience and knowledge. Start with accessible series to understand the character’s evolution, then explore limited editions through reputable sources. LABUBU Box Engage with collector groups, attend exhibitions if possible, and learn to recognize genuine releases.
Over time, as you build your collection, you’ll develop an instinct for what makes a Labubu truly special. Whether it’s a chase variant, an event-exclusive, or a hand-painted masterpiece, each figure adds a new chapter to your collecting story.
The Enduring Legacy of Labubu
As the designer toy scene continues to grow, Labubu remains a symbol of how art and play can coexist beautifully. From its humble beginnings in Kasing Lung’s sketches to its global fame through POP MART, Labubu has proven that true creativity can capture hearts across generations and cultures.
For serious collectors, rare Labubu figures are more than mere objects—they are expressions of art, emotion, and dedication. In a world that often feels too fast and digital, these little monsters remind us of the joy of imagination, the beauty of craftsmanship, and the thrill of the hunt. And for those who understand the magic of Labubu, the adventure never truly ends.
