In the fast-paced world of collectibles, one quirky, toothy creature has captured the hearts of fans, celebrities, and fashionistas alike: the Smiling Labubu Doll. With its mischievous grin, oversized ears, and fuzzy exterior, this plush monster has become a global sensation, sparking frenzied hunts in stores and online. But can you find a Smiling Labubu Doll in just five seconds? In this article, we’ll dive into the origins, appeal, and cultural impact of the Labubu Doll, explore why it’s so hard to snag one, and offer tips on spotting this coveted collectible in a flash.
The Origins of the Labubu Doll
The Labubu Doll, created by Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung, first appeared in 2015 as part of his imaginative children’s book series, The Monsters. Inspired by Nordic folklore, Lung crafted a whimsical world filled with playful, elf-like creatures, with Labubu as the star. Unlike traditional “cute” toys like Hello Kitty, Labubu is a unique blend of adorable and slightly creepy, sporting a snaggle-toothed smile, wide eyes, and pointed ears. This “ugly-cute” aesthetic, often described as a cross between a gremlin and a gothic Furby, gives Labubu its distinctive charm.
In 2019, Lung partnered with Pop Mart, a Chinese retailer known for its blind box collectibles, to transform Labubu into a physical toy. The first figurines were released that year, but it was the introduction of the Labubu keychain line, starting with the “Exciting Macaron” series in October 2023, that propelled the doll to viral fame. Pop Mart’s blind box model, where buyers don’t know which design they’ll get until they open the package, added an element of surprise and exclusivity that fueled the craze.
Why the Smiling Labubu Doll Is So Popular
The Smiling Labubu Doll’s meteoric rise can be attributed to several factors, blending nostalgia, scarcity, and celebrity endorsements. Here’s why it’s become the must-have accessory of 2025:
1. The Blind Box Appeal
Pop Mart’s blind box strategy taps into the thrill of the unknown. Each box contains a random Labubu variant, with some designs—known as “secret rares”—produced in extremely limited quantities. This lottery-like system drives collectors to buy multiple boxes in hopes of scoring a rare figure, such as a Pirate Labubu or a Fairy Labubu. The excitement of unboxing, often shared in viral TikTok and Instagram videos, has turned the hunt for Labubu into a cultural phenomenon.
2. Celebrity Endorsements
The Labubu Doll’s popularity skyrocketed in April 2024 when K-pop star Lisa from Blackpink was spotted with a Labubu keychain dangling from her Louis Vuitton bag. Her endorsement, coupled with sightings of stars like Rihanna, Dua Lipa, and Kim Kardashian sporting Labubus, transformed the doll into a fashion statement. From Paris Fashion Week to Coachella, Labubu has become the ultimate “It” accessory, often paired with luxury handbags to create a playful yet edgy aesthetic.
3. Collectible Culture and Nostalgia
Labubu taps into the nostalgia of past collectible crazes like Beanie Babies and Pokémon cards. Its quirky design and endless variations—over 300 since its debut—appeal to collectors who enjoy the hunt for rare editions. Fans like Thania Gonzalez, a Los Angeles-based fashion creator, describe dressing their Labubus in custom outfits, treating them like miniature avatars. The doll’s ability to evoke childhood simplicity while resonating with adult collectors has made it a bridge between generations.
4. Social Media Hype
Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram have amplified Labubu’s appeal. Unboxing videos, where collectors reveal their blind box finds, rack up millions of views, while fan communities on Reddit and X share tips on spotting restocks and avoiding counterfeits (dubbed “Lafufus”). The doll’s viral moment was cemented when a human-sized Labubu statue sold for over $150,000 at a Beijing auction in June 2025, making headlines worldwide.
The Smiling Labubu Doll: A Closer Look
Labubu is the star of The Monsters tribe, which includes characters like Zimomo, Tycoco, and Mokoko. Described as a female elf with a mischievous yet kindhearted personality, Labubu stands out with her nine sharp teeth, furry body, and impish grin. Each collection, such as “Fall in Wild” or “Big into Energy,” features Labubu in unique outfits, from corduroy overalls to strawberry-themed beanies. The keychain versions, small enough to hang from bags or belts, are the most sought-after, retailing for around $30 but often reselling for hundreds on platforms like eBay and StockX.
The “smiling” aspect of the Labubu Doll refers to its signature snaggle-toothed grin, which collectors find both endearing and slightly unsettling. This duality—cute yet fierce—has made Labubu a standout in the crowded world of collectibles. As Kasing Lung told Hypbeast, the design draws from European elf legends, blending whimsy with a touch of mischief.
The Challenge: Spotting a Labubu in 5 Seconds
With Labubu Dolls selling out in seconds online and long queues forming outside Pop Mart stores, spotting one in the wild is no easy feat. The challenge of finding a Smiling Labubu Doll in five seconds might seem daunting, but here are some tips to sharpen your skills:
1. Know the Look
Familiarize yourself with Labubu’s distinctive features: a round, furry body, large eyes, pointed ears, and a grin showing nine sharp teeth. The doll often comes in pastel colors like mint green or pink, and keychain versions are typically 3–5 inches tall. Look for the iconic snaggle-toothed smile to differentiate Labubu from other plush toys.
2. Check High-Traffic Spots
Labubus are often spotted as bag charms, especially on designer handbags at fashion events, malls, or trendy cafes. Scan the accessories of fashion-forward individuals in urban areas or check social media posts from Pop Mart stores for clues on new releases.
3. Watch for Blind Boxes
Pop Mart’s blind boxes are sold in select stores and online, often in limited drops. Keep an eye on Pop Mart’s website or follow their social media for restock announcements. Speed is key—new releases sell out in minutes, so set alerts to act fast.
4. Avoid Fakes
Counterfeit Labubus, or “Lafufus,” are common due to the doll’s popularity. Authentic Labubus have matte packaging, a QR code for verification, a UV mark on the foot, and a soft peachy skin tone, as noted in a post by @TheDailyJagran on X. Familiarizing yourself with these markers can help you spot a real Labubu instantly.
5. Practice Quick Scanning
To spot a Labubu in five seconds, train your eyes to focus on small, dangling objects. Practice by browsing images on Etsy or eBay, where Labubus are often listed. The more you see, the faster you’ll recognize the doll’s unique silhouette.
The Cultural Impact of Labubu
The Labubu Doll’s rise reflects broader trends in consumer culture. As The Guardian noted, Labubu’s appeal lies in its ability to serve as a “comfort object” in a complex world, offering a retreat into childhood simplicity. Its limited availability and blind box format create a sense of exclusivity, mirroring the hype around limited-edition sneakers or trading cards. Pop Mart’s revenue, which reached $1.8 billion in 2024 with Labubu contributing $400 million, underscores the doll’s economic impact.
The craze has also sparked controversy. In the UK, Pop Mart temporarily pulled Labubus from stores after reports of customers fighting over them. Online, collectors warn of car break-ins targeting Labubus left in plain sight. Despite these challenges, the doll’s fanbase continues to grow, with communities on Reddit and Etsy creating custom outfits and crochet patterns to personalize their Labubus.
Where to Find a Smiling Labubu Doll
If you’re ready to join the hunt, here are the best places to look:
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Pop Mart Stores and Website: The official retailer for Labubu Dolls, though stock sells out quickly. Check for restocks in stores in the US, UK, or Asia, or monitor popmart.com.
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Resale Platforms: eBay, StockX, and Etsy offer Labubus, but prices can exceed $100 for rare variants. Verify authenticity before buying.
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Etsy for Custom Labubus: Sellers like ThePerfectTrinketsCo and CraftsHandsStudio offer handmade or customized Labubus, ideal for unique finds.
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Social Media Marketplaces: Follow Labubu fan groups on Instagram or Reddit for trading tips and restock alerts.
The Future of Labubu
As Labubu’s popularity shows no signs of slowing, Pop Mart is expanding globally, with new stores planned in Italy and Spain. Collaborations like the Coca-Cola-themed blind box series and a One Piece-inspired collection keep the brand fresh. However, some early adopters, like fashion designer Alice Brightmore, have moved on, citing the doll’s oversaturation. Will Labubu remain a cultural icon, or will it be dethroned by the next collectible craze? Only time will tell.
Looking Ahead
The Smiling Labubu Doll is more than a toy—it’s a cultural phenomenon that blends nostalgia, fashion, and the thrill of the chase. Whether you’re scanning a crowd for its toothy grin or braving online restocks, spotting a Labubu in five seconds requires sharp eyes and quick thinking. By understanding its origins, mastering its look, and staying vigilant for fakes, you can join the global hunt for this mischievous elf. So, can you find the Smiling Labubu Doll in five seconds? With practice, you just might.