Labubu Dolls Are Globally Taking Over Social Media — But Why Are They So Pricey?

Labubu dolls are highly stylised designer figures known for their exaggerated features, mischievous expressions, and a peculiar charm that straddles the line between creepy and cute. Once popular only in East Asia, they have recently become global sensations — especially among collectors, influencers, and youth audiences.

The dolls are released in sealed mystery boxes, which means buyers don't know which character they’re purchasing. This element of surprise has turned them into collectibles that fuel both anticipation and demand.

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The Global Journey Of Labubu

Labubu dolls first emerged from the underground art scene in Hong Kong. They were created by Kasing Lung, a renowned illustrator who infused them with eerie charm and mischievous expressions. Initially popular among designer toy collectors in Hong Kong and mainland China, these dolls quickly gained cult status due to limited releases, blind-box packaging, and social media buzz.

The real explosion began in South Korea, where K-pop idols and influencers casually showcased Labubu figures in livestreams, selfies, and home decor clips. From there, the trend leapt into Japan, Thailand, and eventually Southeast Asia. The dolls rode the wave of cute-meets-creepy collectibles that appeal strongly to Gen Z sensibilities.

With the rising influence of K-culture, anime aesthetics, and curated lifestyle content, Labubu dolls made a seamless entry into India’s digital pop culture. Indian content creators, fashion influencers, and even Bollywood celebrities have embraced the trend, featuring the dolls in Reels, vlogs, and Instagram aesthetics.

What began as an indie collectible in East Asia has now become a global visual icon, capturing the imagination of a hyper-online generation from Seoul to Mumbai and beyond.

Global Icons Fueling Labubu’s Fame

Labubu dolls have gone global, thanks to celebrity fans who’ve turned them into must-have collectibles. BLACKPINK’s Lisa and Rosé were among the first to showcase them on social media, sparking massive interest. Dua Lipa, Rihanna, Kim Kardashian, and David Beckham have also been seen with the quirky dolls, blending luxury style with playful charm. Even Savannah James, wife of LeBron James, kept one in her home setup.

With every celebrity sighting, Labubu’s status as a cultural icon keeps rising, from fashion streets to fan feeds worldwide.

Labubu In India: The New Aesthetic Statement

In India, Labubu dolls have evolved from quirky collectibles into lifestyle elements. A growing number of young Indians are now incorporating them into their home decor, Instagram aesthetics, and daily social media content.

Several Bollywood celebrities and star kids have helped accelerate the trend. Sharvari, Twinkle Khanna, and Ananya Panday have been seen with these dolls, adding aspirational appeal to the already-hyped collectible.

Their presence on fashion-forward social feeds has contributed to a growing demand, especially among Gen Z audiences looking for visually expressive, conversation-starting elements in their setups.

Why Labubu Dolls Are So Expensive

Labubu dolls are not mass-produced toys. They are limited in quantity, released in batches, and often come in seasonal or themed editions. Because each box is a mystery until opened, collectors frequently buy multiples to complete a set, increasing overall demand.

Several factors have contributed to their rising costs:

• Limited production and unique designs.
• Seasonal releases, making older versions hard to find.
• Increased global demand, especially from collectors in Asia and Europe.
• Resale value, with certain rare variants being auctioned or sold at several times their original price.

In India, prices can range from ₹2,000 to ₹10,000 or more per figure, especially for rare designs or international editions.

What makes Labubu unique is how it fits into a broader generational shift. Today’s youth are increasingly drawn to collectibles that reflect individual identity, emotional depth, and visual storytelling. Labubu dolls, with their expressive faces, unpredictable moods, and artistic design, tick all the right boxes.