Over the past few years, the designer toy scene has exploded among collectors of all ages—but one quirky, toothy little figure is especially catching the eyes (and hearts) of teenagers: Labubu.
If you’ve scrolled through TikTok or Instagram recently, you may have spotted this goblin-like creature with spiky ears, big eyes, and an expressive little grin. But what exactly is Labubu—and why are American teens getting hooked?
More: Less is More? Labubu’s Minimalist Design vs. Kids’ Collector Mentality
🎨 What Is Labubu?
Labubu is a character created by Hong Kong-based artist Kasing Lung, brought to life through Pop Mart, the Chinese toy giant known for its blind-box vinyl figures. Labubu comes in dozens of themes—pirate, forest spirit, alien, fairy tale mashups—and often drops as limited-edition series.
While Labubu may look unusual at first glance, that’s part of its charm. It’s weird. It’s whimsical. It’s unapologetically different—and that resonates with today’s teens.
👟 Why Teens Love Labubu
1. It’s Part of the Aesthetic Culture
Teens are curating rooms that are less about minimalism and more about maximalist personality. Labubu fits perfectly with fairycore, goblincore, and alt aesthetics. It looks great on a shelf next to crystals, manga, or Funko Pops—but it feels different.
2. Blind Boxes Are Fun
The thrill of not knowing which version you’ll get appeals to younger buyers. Pop Mart’s blind-box packaging makes collecting feel like a game—and trading figures with friends has become a social activity.
3. It’s TikTok & Instagram Friendly
Teens are showing off their Labubu unboxings, shelf displays, and DIY accessories on social media. The character’s odd-but-cute look helps it go viral.
4. It’s Not Mainstream (Yet)
For many teens, collecting Labubu is a form of identity. It’s not a mass-produced American toy you’d find at Walmart. It’s niche. It’s global. And that makes it cooler.
More: The Parenting Paradox: Why Controlling Parents Love Labubu’s Uncontrollable Characters
💸 Is It Affordable?
Labubu figures range from $12 to $18 per blind box, which is relatively accessible for teens spending their own money or using gift cards. Special editions or rare figures can go for $50+, but most teens start with the basics and build over time.
Many teens buy:
- From Pop Mart U.S. official site
- Amazon’s Pop Mart store
- Urban Outfitters or Hot Topic (some locations)
- Or trade secondhand on platforms like Mercari and Depop
More: Labubu’s ‘Rebel Smile’: Teaching Kids Individuality Through Toy Design
🧠 It’s Not Just a Toy—It’s Self-Expression
Labubu isn’t just a collectible; it represents something deeper for Gen Z: individuality, creativity, and quirkiness. It doesn’t try to be cute in a conventional way—it owns its strangeness. And in an age of growing self-awareness and self-expression, that’s a big part of the appeal.
Final Thoughts
So, do teenagers like Labubu?
Absolutely—especially the ones who love unique characters, collectible culture, and building identities around niche interests.
It may have started in Asia, but Labubu is quickly gaining a cult following in the U.S.—and teens are leading the charge.
