Which one is Labubu or Lafufu?
In the world of collectible toys, a new phenomenon has captured the hearts of people from every continent - the Labubu plush figure. Originating from Hong Kong, the Labubu was first conceived for a children's book series, but its popularity has since soared to unprecedented heights.
The Labubu, with its distinctive nine teeth and unique charm, has become a must-have item. When they become available, they sell out instantly, leaving collectors yearning for more. This scarcity, coupled with the blind box sales model, has created a collector's market worldwide.
Unlike traditional toy or pet stores, Labubu plushes are primarily sold through online stores specializing in collectible toys or blind box merchandise. Examples include Pop Mart’s official online store, Whoopea.com, Fifilandtoys.com, and Pacraft America, which offer various Labubu vinyl plush dolls and blind box collections.
The Labubu gained significant popularity after a famous Thai singer attached one to her handbag, setting a trend among fans. However, the quest for the Labubu is not without its challenges. Due to its collectible nature and the blind box sales model, it is often difficult to find the Labubu in standard toy or pet stores.
In some instances, collectors have resorted to buying the Chinese-made copy of the Labubu, called Lafufu, available in 1 Euro shops. While the Lafufu shares the Labubu's charm, it is often associated with a bad odour, unlike the original Labubu.
Interestingly, the Labubu's creator, Kasing Lung, hails from Hong Kong. The Monchhichi, a similar creature that took the world by storm from Japan in 1974, was designed by a team that suggests collaboration with Giorgio Armani, Donatella Versace, and Miuccia Prada. It is unclear if the Labubu's creators have similar aspirations.
Despite the allure of the Labubu, it is important to note that the cost of a Labubu is twenty times more than a Kinder Egg. Some collectors have even admitted to paying more than the original price for a Lafufu due to its unavailability. However, these details are often kept under wraps.
The Labubu's journey from a children's book character to a global collectible sensation is a testament to its enduring appeal. As the hunt for the Labubu continues, collectors remain hopeful that they too can add this enigmatic plush figure to their collection.
The Labubu's unique charm and scarcity have turned it into a popular item in the world of entertainment and pop-culture, as seen with its association with famous personalities and its exclusive online sales. Yet, the pursuit of the original Labubu often presents challenges, with some collectors opting for the cheaper Lafufu counterfeit due to its availability.
In the world of collectible toys, the enduring appeal of the Labubu has placed it amongst other global sensations, such as the Monchhichi from Japan, which boasted collaborations with famous fashion designers. The Labubu's creators may have aspirations of similar collaborations, contributing further to its standing in entertainment and pop-culture.
