Kim Kardashian’s Lovebour doll collection. Credit: Instagram @kimkardashian
They have pointy teeth, wide eyes, and are probably cute and very greedy. That’s what Labubu dolls are Anywhere. Created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, Labubus exploded into the global designer toy trend.
After being pushed into the “blindbox” for just 6 euros, they are now sold out all over the world, with one life-size Lovebu winning over 140,000 euros at auction.
What is Labubu Dolls? Why are people so obsessed with them?
Lovebu is a part of it Monstera 2015 illustrated book series by Kasing Lung, inspired by Scandinavian folklore. In 2019, the mischievous elf-like character came to life through a contract with the Chinese toy giant Pop Mart, known for his collectible blindbox figurines that buyers don’t know which version they’ll get.
Prices start at 50 yen (6 euros), but rarer models can now command hundreds or thousands of euros thanks to their rarity and fan demand.
One Reddit user cited tab“Someone smashed a car window and stole a Lovebu. Nothing else, it’s Lovebu.”
Labubu Dolls: Celebrity Hype
Labubu’s viral fame was supercharged after BlackPink’s K-Pop Superstar Lisa was discovered in one hanging from her gorgeous handbag. Rihanna, Dua Lipa, Kim Kardashian and David Beckham are also fans of Lovebu.
appeal? For some, it’s pure nostalgia. One collector said tab: “They are cute and make me feel happy. Being an adult is boring.” Others love surprises. “The Blind Box gets me. It’s like opening a packet of Kinder Joy in anticipation of a surprise gift.”
There is also a cultural element. In China, attaching stuffed animals to bags and clothing is a general fashion statement.
The life-size Lovebu was sold at auction for 140,000 euros
In June 2025, the 131cm Lovebu was sold at Yongle International Ouction in Beijing for 108 million yuan (140,000 euros). It was the only thing of its kind. In total, 48 Love-themed pieces brought 3.73 million yen (475,000 euros) at the event. Reuters.
Lovebu’s repulsion
Lovebu’s success sparked a backlash. Chinese regulators recently banned banks from using dolls as promotional gifts after the bank provided the bank to customers depositing 50,000 yen (6,400 euros). Guardian.
Authorities warned that the gimmick could promote unsustainable spending habits and damage bank profits. Critics also accused Pop Mart of encouraging gambling addiction, as buyers often buy a large number of blind boxes to complete the set.
The hype has led to black market resale and doll smuggling. ara.cat Chinese customs now limit the number of dolls that travelers can leave the country.
Pop Mart is currently listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, with overseas sales increasing by 375%, accounting for 40% of its revenue of 1.6 billion euros. Physical stores and vending machines appeared in Tokyo, Dubai, London and Paris. Fans should queue for hours.
Do you or someone you know enjoy collecting Labubu dolls? Please let us know in the comments below.
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