The Labubu craze hitting Australia: what it is, why it’s everywhere, and how to buy safely

If you have spotted little fluff-eared creatures swinging from handbags on the tram or noticed queues outside neon-bright toy stores, you have met Labubu. The mischievous character from Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung’s world has exploded across Australia, with new drops selling out and collectors lining up before stores open.

First things first: what is Labubu?

Labubu began as a character in Kasing Lung’s story universe The Monsters, then grew into a runaway hit through Pop Mart’s collectible ranges. The figures come in many styles, from tiny blind-box charms to bigger plushes, all built around Labubu’s signature grin and tall ears. For a quick primer, an explainer titled “What on Earth are Labubu Dolls?” helps demystify the basics for parents and new collectors, and it shows why the look feels quirky rather than childish: “What on Earth are Labubu Dolls?” outlines the trend in simple terms for first-timers.

Why Australia fell hard for Labubu

Pop Mart’s rapid rollout has made Labubu visible in everyday life, from boutique stores to vending-style Robo Shops that keep stock moving. A recent TV piece labelled “overnight queues for Labubu” captures the frenzy around limited drops and shows how teens and young adults are driving it, which makes the craze feel more like street fashion than toys; see the momentum in “overnight queues for Labubu” on YouTube to understand the scale of the lines. “overnight queues for Labubu” appears during a broader news wrap that spotlights the hype.

The blind-box rush, explained

The blind-box model is part of the hook. You buy a sealed box without knowing the exact figure inside. The anticipation feels a bit like a mini-lottery, especially when secret or rare variants are in the mix. That little jolt of “maybe this time” nudges repeat purchases and helps each drop become a shared moment for fans.

How much do they cost in Australia?

Prices vary by series and size. Entry-level keychain plushies sit around the cost of a café brunch, which makes them an easy impulse buy for teens and young adults. Larger plushes and special editions cost more at retail, and the busiest drops can resell at a premium when supply gets tight.

Where to buy the real thing

Your safest option is official stockists. The current “Australian store list” shows where Pop Mart boutiques and Robo Shops are operating, which helps you plan a visit or time your next drop-day run, and it is updated as new stores open: check the live “Australian store list” to map your nearest locations before you head out. “Australian store list” includes addresses and hours so you can avoid wasted trips.

Some big-box retailers list Labubu during peak demand, although availability changes quickly, so it is worth checking specific stores rather than relying on chance.

Counterfeits are everywhere right now

With popularity comes fakes. Start by using Pop Mart’s own “anti-counterfeiting verification” portal to check authenticity codes, then learn to inspect packaging, tags and QR codes before buying from resellers; the simple workflow in “anti-counterfeiting verification” takes seconds and can save money and stress. “anti-counterfeiting verification” is designed for quick checks while you are browsing. For broader safety guidance when shopping online, the ACCC highlights “know your product safety rights” so you understand refunds, recalls and what to do if something goes wrong, which is useful if you end up with a counterfeit or unsafe product; the consumer checklist under “know your product safety rights” spells out next steps clearly. “know your product safety rights” is worth bookmarking before big release days.

Why women are embracing Labubu

Beyond the hype, Labubu aligns with a few style shifts. The look is quirky in a way that photographs well on a bag or bookshelf. The drop-day adventure is a social event you can share with friends, and the price ladder makes it easy to start small then trade up later. Celebrity styling has nudged these charms from toy shelves into fashion, so they feel playful rather than childish.

Smart shopping tips

1. Decide your lane. Are you collecting for fun or chasing rare variants for resale value? Set a budget either way.
2. Buy official when you can. Follow store announcements and aim for in-store or the official site first.
3. Learn to authenticate. Use packaging checks and the verification portal before purchasing on resale platforms.
4. Be queue-savvy. Lines for big drops can start early. Bring water and a power bank, and be kind to staff and other collectors.

FAQ

Is Labubu for kids or adults?

Both buy it, although the core collector base skews teens and adults who treat Labubu as pop-culture collectibles rather than toys.

Why are some people paying so much?

Limited supply plus rare variants and an active resale scene can push prices up quickly after a drop. Fans queue for retail pricing to avoid that premium.

Where are the biggest queues?

Major city stores see the longest lines on release days. Expect early starts in Melbourne and Sydney when high-profile launches hit.

How do I avoid fakes?

Stick to official stores, check packaging and verification codes, and avoid sellers who will not answer basic questions. Use the verification portal before you pay.

The bottom line

Labubu blends cute-weird design with the thrill of the blind-box hunt, supported by a growing retail footprint that keeps the buzz alive. If you are Labubu-curious, start with an official drop, learn the authentication basics, and collect with a budget that feels right for you.