Queue chaos: Labubu toy craze sparks hours‑long lines worldwide

Since debuting in 2015, Kasing Lung created the mischievously charming plush elf Labubu, inspired by Nordic folklore in his picture‑book series The Monsters. The character gained international recognition in 2019 when Chinese toy giant Pop Mart adopted Labubu into its blind‑box collectible lineup. Part toy, part fashion accessory, Labubu’s adorable yet slightly eerie grin, complete with nine pointy teeth, and its handy key‑ring clip earned viral status once Lisa of Blackpink carried one on her bag in 2024.

The demand exploded—Pop Mart’s market value soared to around $40  billion, fueled by endless queues and sold‑out drops in China and abroad. Limited edition figures now include rare “secret” versions with only a 1‑in‑72 chance, and oversized collector editions have fetched six‑figure sums — like a 4‑ft mint‑green Labubu that sold for over $170,000.

But with fame comes fallout. Copycats known as “Lafufus” flooded the market, often using real packaging to deceive buyers, and posing safety risks from cheap materials and poor craftsmanship. Official resources advise checking texture, QR codes on authentic packaging, UV‑sensitive foot stamps, and consistent facial features to distinguish genuine from fake. 

This craze now spans continents—from blind‑box frenzies in Austin and Beijing to fashion influencers dressing their dolls in custom outfits and sharing viral unboxing clips online. Collectors of all ages—parents scrambling for toys for their kids, grandmas queuing at dawn, fund managers investing in Pop Mart’s stock—are swept up in Labubu mania.

Experts caution about addictive consumer behavior tied to scarcity and blind‑box design, urging careful spending and vigilance against fakes. Yet for many, Labubu remains a whimsical collector’s item and cheeky accessory—a toy that’s equal parts cute, creepy and culturally iconic.

Sources: 

• thescottishsun.co.uk
• statesman.com
• indiatimes.com
• businessinsider.com
• ft.com
• nymag.com