You’re probably used to picking up a collectible toy for a few bucks—but not this time. One tiny Labubu figure just sold for a jaw-dropping $10,500 (Dh38,535) on eBay, more than 125 times its original $85 (Dh312) price tag. So, why is Labubu so expensive? The answer lies in its rarity, fan obsession, and skyrocketing demand in the collector world.
The record-breaking Pop Mart Labubu figure stands out with its rare gray-brown design and stylish Vans streetwear—sneakers, a sweatshirt, and a blue-and-orange hat labeled ‘The Monsters.’ Pop Mart released this limited-edition Labubu in 2023 as part of a blind box collaboration with Vans, instantly turning it into a highly sought-after collectible.
So why are collectors shelling out big money for these quirky, toothy figures? It comes down to scarcity. Pop Mart Labubu toys, created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung and inspired by Nordic mythology, have gained massive popularity over the past decade. Pop Mart fuels the hype with its limited-supply model, making each Labubu release even more desirable.
Typically, buyers purchase Pop Mart Labubu figures in blind boxes priced between $20 and $40 (Dh73 to Dh147), without knowing which character they’ll get. The real excitement centers around ultra-rare ‘secret’ editions, with odds as low as 1 in 72—or even 1 in 144. These rare finds are commanding huge prices on resale platforms. One pink ‘secret’ Labubu from the “Catch Me If You Like Me” series, for example, recently sold for $2,000 (Dh7,340) on eBay.
Experts are taking notice of the trend. According to collectible appraiser Lori Verderame, who has her own show on the History Channel, the unique look and general appeal of Labubu toys will make them a strong market collectible for years to come.
