Labubul

If you are looking to buy a Labubu toy today, whether a plastic figure or a plush, you may be surprised by the prices online. Some models sell for hundreds of dollars, and some even reach thousands. This makes many people wonder: Why are Labubu so expensive? Let’s delve deeper into the reality behind these prices.

1.A Collection Based on Rarity

One of the biggest reasons why Labubu is expensive is its rarity. Pop Mart, the company that manufactures Labubu, does not release large quantities of each model. Each “series” only has a few models, and they often have one or two “hidden editions” that are harder to find. This makes them collectibles that every fan wants to have in their display case. The harder something is to find, the higher its price. The collectible market always works on this principle.

The “Blind Box” Strategy

Pop Mart uses a strategy called the blind box: you buy a box without knowing which model is inside. You can find a common model, but you can also find a “rare edition” that many people are looking for. This method makes the game like a game of chance.

    People who want the entire collection have to buy multiple boxes to get all the models, which increases demand, and the prices on the second-hand market rise.

    bubul 1

    Celebrity and Social Media Effect

    Another important factor is the celebrity endorsement effect. When Lisa from BLACKPINK, Rihanna, or David Beckham posts a photo with a Labubu, it immediately becomes a “status symbol”. People not only buy it because it is beautiful, but also because it represents a “cool” image on social media.

      On TikTok and Instagram, Labubu unboxing videos can get millions of views in a few days. This brings new fans into the market, increases demand, and automatically increases prices.

      The Resale Market
      The official price of a Labubu at a Pop Mart store can be affordable — often between $10 and $20 for a figure, or $30 to $60 for a plush. But on the resale market, that can skyrocket very quickly.

      A model rarely sells for 5 to 10 times its original price, and some “limited editions” exceed $500. In 2025, a 4-foot Labubu even sold for more than $170,000 at an auction. This makes the collection look like an investment rather than just a toy.

      Limited Production and Quality

        Pop Mart does not produce Labubu in uncontrolled large quantities. Each series is made with great care, with precise details in color, shape, and packaging. Among collectors, this quality is very valuable, especially when combined with limited editions. Limited production + high quality = skyrocketing prices.

          The Psychological Effect of “FOMO”

          Another reason why Labubu prices rise is the Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) effect. When people see a popular model disappearing from stores or on official websites, they rush to buy it, even if it means paying more. Collectors are afraid of missing out on a model that could become very expensive in the future, so they put more pressure on the market.

          Cultural Impact and Sentimental Value
          Labubu is not just a toy — it is a part of modern pop culture. It carries artistic, emotional, and even nostalgic value for its fans. For many, it reminds them of their childhood or serves as a cutout of their personal identity online. When something has such sentimental value, its value often exceeds its material value.

          Counterfeiting and Demand for Authenticity
          As Labubu prices rise, so does the market for counterfeit products. There are many copies that sell for much less, but collectors are still looking for the original, which drives up the prices for verified models even further.

          nbubul

          Some people even use certification cards or official receipts to prove the authenticity of their models.
          The Labubu is so expensive not because it is made of special materials or advanced technology, but because it represents a combination of rarity, marketing strategy, social media influence, and collector passion. A small figure that may have started as a simple child’s toy has now become a status symbol, an investment, and even a part of global culture.

          If you are thinking about buying a Labubu, the best time is before it becomes a “rare edition” on the market – because once it does, the price can rise faster than you think.

          By .Wilgerns Sirise