If you’re one of the lucky ones who have never heard of Labubu dolls, allow me to ruin your day for you.
Apparently, these strange, stuffed animal-like dolls and toys are some sort of mega-viral craze right now, with the official retailer, Popmart, selling out of the creatures almost instantly the moment they are in stock.
The toys are so popular, in fact, that they served as a trendy fashion accessory during Paris Week, adorning bags and purses like whimsical charms.
A writer for Today helpfully provided the origin story of Labubu dolls, because I was one of the clueless ones who had never heard of them until recently. Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung created the Labubu creatures in a picture book he illustrated.
Lung explained in his Instagram post that he believes in the Nordic myths and legends of elves and fairies, so he based his Chinese story on the mythical creatures.
The Artist
Based on Lung’s books with the creatures, toy company Pop Mart got involved and introduced a Labubu collectible collection in 2019. The rest, they say, is history, as the creatures have soared in popularity ever since.
Known as “The Monsters,” the Labubus are their own little tribe with names such as Zimomo, Mokoko, Tycoco, and others. Some of their signature characteristics include an impish grin evoking their mischievous and playful nature, and of course, long, rabbit-like ears.
The teeth are also a clue for “real” Labubus – real Labubus all have nine visible teeth. Anything less or more is an impostor.
It is important to know how to spot an impostor because the Labubu dolls have become so popular and difficult to find that counterfeit and copycat versions have been popping up all over. Unfortunately, the fake versions often pose significant safety risks, with the BBC reporting that imitation Labubu dolls have loose parts that can come loose and become a major choking hazard, as well as a risk of dangerous chemical exposure.
Because the dupes are made quickly with no overseeing safety regulatory agency, the toys can contain dangerous components.
“Counterfeit toys can potentially pose significant dangers to young children such as chemical exposure and choking hazards,” a trading safety official told the BBC.
The good news is, we know the only official place you can purchase Labubu dolls: Pop Mart.
But the bad news is, they’re out of stock and sell out almost instantly as soon as they go live on the site. Even themed accessories, such as headbands, backpacks, and bags, are fully out of stock right now.
The website does have waitlist options, so you can be notified when your favorite creature comes up for sale.
LABUBU Time to chill-Vinyl Plush Doll
$82.99
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It is worth noting that even on the official Labubu site through Popmart, most of the dolls and accessories specify that they should not be used by anyone under the age of 15, so keep that in mind as a safety concern.
POP BEAN THE MONSTERS Forest Fairy Tale Set-LABUBU Waiting For The Prologue
Price may vary
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We did find this little guy for sale online, although sales are open to members only through the website. The price is also not listed until you sign in as a member.
YOKI My Little Planets Series
Pop Mart also sells themed blind boxes, which make the hunt for Labubu dolls and accessories even more exciting because each box is a surprise.
Some people receive coveted special edition characters or colors, which can go for even more money in resale.
The Monsters Classic Series-Sparkly Blind Box
Amazon does have a PopMart store available, with some creatures and products, but reviews are mixed on the quality (some shoppers say the products are all returned or opened), so you might want to do some research before shopping.
We did find these super cute holiday-themed Pop Mart keychains, however, in stock and for only $17.99.
*Psst: if you choose to purchase an item from this post, CafeMom.com may receive a small cut. Each item and price is up to date at the time of publication; however, an item may be sold out or the price may be different at a later date.
