Labubu Dolls: How a Creepy Cute Toy Became a Global Collectible Sensation

A strange yet adorable doll named Labubu is making waves across social media, becoming a global sensation for its odd features and quirky charm. With big teeth, crooked eyes, and a devilish grin, the Labubu doll is equal parts creepy and cute—earning the title of “ugly cute” from fans online.

What began as a niche toy has now transformed into a worldwide collectible brand, appealing to both young audiences and serious collectors.

The Labubu doll was created by renowned artist Kasing Lung, and launched by Pop Mart, one of China’s leading toy manufacturers. Thanks to its unusual design and creative marketing, the doll has quickly become a global favorite.

Despite its bizarre appearance, Labubu has captured hearts for being strangely endearing. Its uniqueness sets it apart from conventional toys, and its photos are constantly going viral on platforms like Instagram and TikTok.

A key reason for Labubu’s success lies in Pop Mart’s “blind box” sales strategy. Buyers purchase a sealed box without knowing which version of the doll they’re getting, adding suspense and excitement to each purchase. This mystery factor has turned toy buying into an addictive experience for many fans—some even buy multiple boxes until they find their favorite variant.

In a shocking turn, a large-sized Labubu doll was auctioned in Beijing for ₹1.2 crore (approximately $144,000). Even the smaller versions are fetching prices in the lakhs of rupees, as collectors around the world snap them up—not just as toys, but as investments.

The Labubu craze has translated into massive profits for Pop Mart. The company’s CEO, Wang Ning, is now counted among China’s richest individuals. Riding on Labubu’s success, Pop Mart has expanded into digital collectibles and NFTs, tapping into the next generation of toy culture.

More than just a doll, Labubu has become a part of its fans’ identity and lifestyle. With its emotional and aesthetic appeal, the doll has sparked a global movement, symbolizing individuality, nostalgia, and creativity.