Labubu Dolls: Craze or Unhealthy Obsession?

Have you recently scrolled through Instagram and found people proudly showing off a creepy cute toy with big eyes, sharp teeth, and bunny ears? If you’ve seen a Labubu doll and thought, “What even is that?” — you’re not alone. From casual collectors to high-end fashionistas, Labubu dolls have become the latest collectible craze, and their popularity is skyrocketing.

But is this just innocent fun? Or are we looking at a growing obsession that's spiraling out of control?

Let’s explore what Labubu dolls are, why people are buying them, and whether this phenomenon is a harmless trend or a sign of something deeper.

What Even Is a Labubu?

Labubu is a whimsical, monster-inspired character brought to life by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung. It became globally popular through Pop Mart, a Chinese company that sells collectibles in “blind boxes” – meaning you don’t know which character you’re getting until you open it.

Labubu has a distinctive design:

• Oversized eyes
• Sharp little teeth
• Pointy bunny-like ears
• A weird yet endearing expression

Its aesthetic is best described as “ugly-cute” — a combination of creepy and adorable that makes it stand out in a sea of plush toys.

There are multiple versions of Labubu — pirate Labubu, dinosaur Labubu, wizard Labubu — and each series often includes rare, limited-edition figures that are much harder to find.

Why Are People Buying It?

Let’s be honest: we’ve all been drawn to something trendy just because everyone else is talking about it. Labubu is no different — except it comes with a psychological twist.

Here’s why people are hooked:

1. Blind Box Excitement

Buying a blind box taps into our dopamine system — the same reward loop that gambling or video games trigger. The mystery of “what will I get?” keeps people coming back again and again. Many buyers say opening a box gives them a rush, even if they don’t get the figure they want.

2. Social Media Influence

Seeing Labubu dolls on the feeds of celebrities like Rihanna, BLACKPINK’s Lisa, or influencers in Japan, Korea, and even India has created massive FOMO (Fear of Missing Out). When someone famous posts it, everyone wants to be part of the trend.

3. Emotional Comfort

In stressful times, people often turn to hobbies that provide comfort. Collecting Labubu gives a sense of joy, nostalgia, and childlike wonder. For many adults, it’s a form of escapism.

4. Sense of Community

There are entire online groups where people trade, customize, and share Labubu content. From Instagram reels to Reddit threads, the community adds to the experience — you don’t just buy a toy; you join a movement.

Also Read: How Fake Social Media Lives Can Leave You Feeling Inferior?

Labubu as a Status Symbol: Why It’s Not Just a Toy

Let's discuss the elephant in the room: status.

Some Labubu dolls are being resold for tens of thousands of rupees (and even lakhs). Limited-edition dolls from collaborations or special series become exclusive items, like luxury handbags or sneakers. Owning a rare Labubu is now a way to show:

• You’re trendy
• You have spending power
• You’re "in the know"

High-fashion brands have also jumped on board. Some versions of Labubu are now used as bag charms on designer handbags. Others are displayed like art pieces in people’s homes.

When the Craze Turns Concerning?

While collecting Labubu can be a fun and creative hobby, it’s not all sunshine and sparkles. The dark side of this trend is becoming harder to ignore:

1. Spending Beyond Means

Some people are spending thousands trying to collect the full set or get a rare figure. It starts with “just one box” and snowballs into a monthly expense. Several collectors online have confessed to skipping essentials just to buy the next release.

“I didn’t realize I spent ₹35,000 in two months — and I still didn’t get the rare one,” shared one user on Reddit.

2. Obsessive Behavior

Buying becomes compulsive. The thrill of “the next drop” can turn into stress or obsession. People stay up all night tracking releases, fighting bots online, or even lining up outside stores.

3. Emotional Attachment and Anxiety

The disappointment of not getting a specific version or losing in a trade can cause real emotional distress. What should be fun can become frustrating or even toxic when it’s tied too tightly to self-worth.

4. Counterfeits and Scams

With demand soaring, fake Labubu dolls (often called “Lafufu” online) are everywhere. New collectors usually get scammed — paying high prices for counterfeit items that look similar but lack the charm, quality, or resale value of the real ones.

Craze or Unhealthy Obsession?

So, is this just a playful trend or something more troubling?

If you find joy in collecting, customizing, or trading Labubu dolls within a budget, that’s great! It can be creative, therapeutic, and social. Although it started as just a toy, Labubu has rapidly evolved into a symbol of personal identity, refined taste, and high-end luxury.

Tips for Healthy Collecting

Here’s how you can enjoy Labubu dolls without letting them take over your life:

1. Set a Budget: Decide on the amount you're comfortable spending each month. Stick to it — even if a rare one drops.

2. Track Purchases: Keep a record so you’re aware of how much you’ve spent.

3. Join Ethical Communities: Be part of groups that focus on fun, not pressure. Avoid a resale culture that thrives on making people feel left out.

4. Don’t Chase Every Drop: You don’t need every version to be a “true” fan. Choose the ones you genuinely love.

5. Beware of Fakes: Only buy from trusted sources. Learn how to spot a real vs. fake Labubu by checking QR codes, packaging quality, and seller reviews.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth the Hype?

Labubu dolls are not just cute monsters. They’re a reflection of how modern consumer culture works — driven by emotion, exclusivity, and social media. For many, they offer a fun escape from reality. But like anything popular, they come with risks when the line between joy and obsession starts to blur.

So, the next time you feel yourself tempted to click "add to cart"—pause and ask:

“Am I buying this for joy? Or for approval, escape, or pressure?”

Your answer will tell you whether it’s a harmless craze… or something more.