Labubu Bag Charms: The Cult Toy That Took Over Collectors’ Hearts

Labubu bag charms have quickly become a beloved accessory in the world of designer toys and luxury fashion. With their mischievous expressions and handcrafted details, these quirky figures are turning heads and adding personality to handbags across the globe. Originally part of the POP MART universe, Labubu charms blend art, collectability, and playful charm in a way that few accessories do.

Collectors and fashion lovers alike have embraced Labubu not just as a keychain, but as a statement piece. As demand grows and limited editions fly off shelves, Labubu proves it’s more than just a trend—it’s a cultural icon in the making.

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The Origins of Labubu and Its Rise to Cult Status

The story of Labubu begins with Kasing Lung, a Hong Kong-based illustrator and toy designer known for his darkly whimsical creatures. 

First conceptualized in 2015 as part of Lung’s “The Monsters” art series, Labubu emerged as a standout character—a mischievous, fanged imp with oversized eyes and a playful grin.

From Underground Art Toy to Global Phenomenon

Labubu’s journey to fame accelerated when POP MART, the Chinese collectible giant, acquired licensing rights and introduced the character in their blind box series in 2018. 

What started as a niche designer toy quickly exploded into a worldwide obsession, thanks to:

• The Blind Box Boo: POP MART’s mystery packaging model created instant collectibility;
• Social Media Virality: Instagram and TikTok turned Labubu into a #ItAccessory for luxury bags;
• Celebrity Endorsements: spotted on influencers like Bella Hadid and Blackpink’s Lisa.

And why does Labubu stand out in the designer toy world?

Distinctive “Ugly-Cute” Design

Labubu’s appeal lies in its subversive charm—a fusion of:

• Big, expressive eyes (reminiscent of anime);
• Sharp teeth and impish grin (edgy yet endearing);
• Asymmetrical, hand-sculpted details (each piece feels unique).

This “strangely adorable” aesthetic taps into the same trend that made Sanrio’s Kuromi and Squishmallows so popular.

Scarcity & Hype Culture

POP MART fuels demand through:

• Limited edition drops (e.g., Labubu x Disney Villains);
• Secret rare variants (1 in 144 chance in blind boxes);
• Collaborations with streetwear brands (e.g., Labubu x A Bathing Ape).

Some rare Labubu figures now resell for $1,000+ in secondary markets.

Cultural Crossover: From Streetwear to High Fashion

Labubu has transcended toy culture, appearing on:

• Luxury handbags (Gucci, Prada, Jacquemus);
• Streetwear collaborations (Uniqlo, BAPE);
• Art exhibitions (DesignerCon, ComplexCon).

As noted by Vogue Arabia, Labubu represents a shift in luxury—where playfulness and nostalgia now hold as much value as traditional status symbols.

What about its future?

With new collaborations, animated shorts in development, and a growing resale market, Labubu shows no signs of fading. For collectors, it’s more than a toy—it’s a wearable piece of art that bridges generations and styles.

Curious to start collecting? Check the latest drops at POP MART or hunt for rare finds on eBay and collector forums.

Inside the Fan Culture Behind POP MART Collectibles

POP MART, the Chinese toy giant behind Labubu, revolutionized collectibles with:

• Blind box mystery bags ($12-$25 each);
• Limited drops (selling out in minutes);
• Artist collaborations (e.g., Labubu x Disney, Labubu x Sanrio).

Why Collectors Are Obsessed

• Thrill of the hunt: rare variants can resell for 10x retail price;
• Customization culture: fans swap, trade, and display charms;
• Social media appeal: #Labubu has 500K+ posts on Instagram.

For more on 2000s-inspired trends, see our guide to Y2K nostalgia.

Where to Find and Collect Rare Labubu Bag Charms

The hunt for rare Labubu bag charms has evolved into a sophisticated collector’s pursuit, blending elements of treasure hunting, investment strategy, and community networking. 

If you’re seeking your first Labubu or hunting for ultra-rare variants, these are the most effective channels to build your collection.

Official Retailers (Best for New Releases)

POP MART US Online Store

• Vorteile:
  • Guaranteed authentic products;
  • First access to new collections;
  • Occasionally restocks sold-out items.
• Key Collections to Watch:
  • Labubu Fantasy Series;
  • Artist Collaboration Editions;
  • Seasonal Limited Releases.
• Shopping Tip:
  • Create an account for early access to drops;
  • Sign up for restock notifications on POP MART US.

POP MART Physical Stores

• Vorteile:
  • Ability to examine blind box weight/feel (for experienced collectors);
  • Store-exclusive promotions;
  • Immediate purchase without shipping wait.
• Location Strategy:
  • Flagship stores (NYC, LA) often get limited editions first;
  • Check the store locator for inventory updates.

Resale Markets (For Discontinued & Rare Pieces)

eBay

• Pricing Trends:
  • Common figures: $30-$50;
  • Rare variants: $150-$500;
  • Ultra-limited artist collabs: $1,000+.
• Smart Buying:
  • Filter for “New in Box” condition;
  • Verify seller reputation (look for toy specialists);
  • Search for “Labubu lot” for bundle deals.

Mercari & Depop

• Am besten geeignet für:
  • Gently used charms at 20-40% below retail;
  • Complete sets from collectors downsizing.
• Negotiation Tip:
  • Bundle multiple items for better pricing;
  • Check seller’s other listings for possible trades.

Trading Communities (For Networking & Rare Finds)

Facebook Collector Groups

• Top Groups:
  • “Labubu Collectors Worldwide” (25K+ members);
  • “POP MART Buy/Sell/Trade”.
• Community Benefits:
  • First dibs on private sales before public listing;
  • Trusted moderator-vetted transactions;
  • Regional meetups for in-person trades.

Reddit’s r/vinyltoys & Discord Servers

• Specialized Forums For:
  • Identifying counterfeit products;
  • Trading duplicate pulls;
  • Getting appraisals for rare finds.
• Profi-Tipp:
  • Join Discord servers linked from Reddit for real-time deal alerts.

Alternative Sources

Asian Marketplaces

• Taobao/Tmall (China)
  • Often gets releases months earlier;
  • Requires proxy shopping service.
• HobbyLink Japan
  • Good for Studio Ghibli collabs.

Convention Exclusives

• DesignerCon (Annual in Anaheim);
• Comic Conventions (Artist Alley sections).

Price Guide & Investment Potential

Authentication Tips:

• Genuine Labubu have crisp paint details;
• Official products include POP MART authentication cards;
• Packaging has specific holographic seals.

For serious collectors, combining official store vigilance with resale market savvy and community networking creates the best strategy for finding those elusive grail pieces.

Remember—the rarest Labubu often go to those who cultivate relationships within the collector community.

Why Adults Are Embracing the Designer Toy Trend

Labubu isn’t just for kids—luxury collectors and fashionistas are snapping them up because:

• They personalize high-end bags (seen on Gucci, Louis Vuitton);
• Nostalgia for toy culture meets modern art appreciation;
• Investment potential (some rare pieces appreciate like art).

As noted in Vogue Arabia, these charms have become status symbols for a new generation.

Join the Labubu Craze

Whether you’re a serious collector or just love quirky accessories, Labubu offers fun, art, and community.Start your collection: Browse the latest drops at POP MART heute.