Why Are Labubus So Expensive? Unpacking the High Price of a Tiny Legend

In the world of designer toys and collectible art figures, one quirky character continues to stand out—and that’s Labubu. With its mischievous grin, oversized ears, and eccentric personality, Labubu has become a must-have for collectors worldwide. But for newcomers or casual fans, there’s one question that keeps popping up: Why are Labubus so expensive?

At first glance, Labubu may look like just another cute toy figure. But once you peek behind the price tag, you discover that Labubu is more than plastic and paint. The high cost is not just about what you hold in your hands—it’s about what the figure represents. Let’s dive into the many reasons why Labubus command such a premium.

1. Labubu is Not a Toy—It’s Art

One of the biggest reasons behind Labubu’s price is its artistic value. These figures are not mass-market toys churned out by big corporations. Labubu is part of the designer toy movement, which blends pop culture, fashion, illustration, and modern art into tangible collectibles.

Each Labubu figure is created with a vision, often featuring intricate designs, imaginative costumes, and storytelling themes. From pirate versions to space explorers and fairytale-inspired variants, Labubus are crafted with artistic intent.

Think of them like limited-edition prints or sculptures. When you buy a Labubu, you’re buying a mini art piece—one that sits on your shelf and reflects style, creativity, and identity.

2. Limited Production Increases Demand

Another major factor that drives the price up is the limited supply. Labubu figures are rarely mass-produced. Most releases are either part of small collections or sold as mystery boxes with only a few rare designs per batch.

This scarcity makes each figure more desirable. Many collectors chase specific versions, and when supply is short, the resale value climbs fast. Some rare Labubus can sell for several times their original retail price on the secondary market.

This type of limited release creates a natural sense of urgency and competition—collectors around the globe scramble to grab their desired designs before they’re gone for good.

3. High-Quality Craftsmanship

Labubu figures are built with exceptional attention to detail. From the sharp lines of their facial expressions to the textures on their tiny clothes and accessories, every Labubu tells a story through design.

The materials used are also of premium quality. Vinyl and resin used in these figures are carefully chosen for durability, color accuracy, and finish. The painting process—often involving hand-painted touches—adds to the labor and cost.

This level of craftsmanship isn’t cheap. The design and production process takes time, effort, and a team of skilled creators. So when you pay a higher price for Labubu, you’re supporting that artistic process.

4. Character Recognition and Emotional Value

Labubu is more than a cute character—it has become a symbol. For many collectors, the figure represents freedom of expression, imagination, and rebellion against conventional beauty.

There’s an emotional connection that fans build with Labubu. It’s not sleek or perfect—instead, it’s quirky, odd, and raw. That unique energy resonates with people who feel out of place or who value creative freedom.

And when an object carries emotional meaning, it becomes more than its physical form. It becomes part of your identity, a conversation starter, and a cherished possession. That emotional bond adds unseen value that goes beyond money.

5. The Thrill of the Hunt

Let’s talk about the collector experience. Part of what makes Labubu expensive is the culture around it. Many versions are released as blind boxes—meaning you don’t know which design you’ll get. Others are extremely limited and only available during specific drops or at art shows and toy conventions.

This scarcity creates a “hunt” mentality. People trade, resell, and even travel just to find the specific Labubu figure they want. The journey to acquire one makes each figure feel more valuable once it’s finally in your hands.

Collectors often say that half the joy is in the chase. And as any collector knows, when demand rises and stock is limited, the price naturally goes up.

6. A Niche Market with Passionate Fans

Labubu belongs to a niche but fiercely dedicated fan base. Unlike mass-market toys aimed at general consumers, Labubu targets art lovers, collectors, and fans of alternative design.

These buyers aren’t looking for a bargain—they’re looking for something meaningful and rare. They’re willing to pay more for authenticity, originality, and emotion. This level of passion inflates prices, especially for hard-to-find or discontinued models.

In niche markets, prices don’t always reflect materials—they reflect desire. And Labubu inspires a lot of desire.

7. The Story Behind Every Design

Each Labubu figure isn’t just a product—it has a backstory. Whether it’s a forest creature, a mystical adventurer, or a monster in disguise, every release is filled with narrative detail. Some figures come as part of themed series, like Halloween, fairytales, pirates, or space travelers.

This storytelling aspect turns each figure into a character rather than a decoration. Collectors don’t just buy Labubus—they build a whole universe around them. That depth gives the figures a life of their own and adds richness that people are willing to pay for.

8. Strong Second-Hand Market

Another driving force behind Labubu’s price is the resale market. Many collectors who missed an initial drop are willing to pay a premium to own a particular design. This keeps prices high, especially for rare variants or older editions that are no longer in production.

Some Labubu figures double or triple in value just weeks after release. Resellers, collectors, and fans drive up the cost due to high demand and limited supply. This economy feeds itself and keeps prices at a premium level.

9. Global Popularity, Local Scarcity

Labubu has developed an international fan base. From Asia to Europe and the U.S., fans line up for releases or set alarms for online drops. But many editions are region-specific or have limited distribution. This geographic imbalance means people from one part of the world may have difficulty accessing certain releases.

The result? Importing, trading, and paying extra shipping or customs fees—all of which contribute to the high overall cost. In some areas, Labubu is simply hard to find, and scarcity creates value.

10. Collector Culture Rewards Exclusivity

In the designer toy world, exclusivity matters. Collectors love knowing they own something few others do. Labubu taps into that desire perfectly with surprise drops, limited editions, and secret chase figures.

These elements make Labubu more than a product—they make it an experience. Collectors enjoy sharing photos of their rare finds, customizing display shelves, and celebrating their Labubu collection with others in the community. The figure becomes a badge of taste, effort, and style.

When something is tied to exclusivity and status, its perceived value climbs—and so does its price.

11. It’s Not Just a Trend—It’s a Lifestyle

Some products come and go with time. Labubu, however, has proven staying power. New releases continue to generate buzz, and the character’s story keeps evolving with fresh designs and collaborations.

For many fans, collecting Labubu becomes a lifestyle hobby. It’s not a one-time purchase—it’s a journey. That depth of engagement makes people willing to invest more money, more time, and more emotion into their collections.

This isn’t about hype. It’s about long-term connection, and that connection makes the figure more valuable with every release.

Final Thoughts: Is Labubu Worth the Price?

To someone outside the community, the price of a Labubu figure might seem high. But once you understand the creativity, scarcity, storytelling, and culture behind it, the price starts to make sense.

You’re not just buying a toy. You’re investing in art, emotion, community, and imagination. Labubu is special because it dares to be different, and that difference is what collectors fall in love with.

So why are Labubus so expensive?

Because they’re more than just collectibles. They’re companions, creative sparks, and portals into a whimsical world. And for many, that world is priceless.