Labubu dolls, the eerie-yet-cute collectibles created by Hong Kong-based artist Kasing Lung in 2015, have skyrocketed to global fame — and price — with their latest collaboration reaching nearly $10,000 on eBay. The dolls, manufactured by Chinese toy giant Pop Mart, have become a viral sensation across social media, driven by their limited availability, quirky appeal, and celebrity following.
Currently, a Labubu x Vans Old Skool Vinyl Plush Doll is commanding top dollar in a competitive online auction, with bidding reaching $8,924 as of 2 PM EDT on Wednesday, according to Forbes. The auction, which continues until 10:45 PM EDT on Monday, July 21, could push the doll’s value well into five figures — making it the most expensive version currently available on resale platforms.
The plush figure is decked out in classic Vans streetwear, including a sweatshirt, Sk8-Mid sneakers, and a distinctive blue-and-orange cap with “The Monsters” embroidered — a nod to the character series it belongs to.
Despite being designed in 2023, the limited Labubu x Vans edition has only recently gained widespread attention due to its extreme scarcity and escalating resale value.
🔥 Why Is Labubu So Expensive?
- Limited Releases: Most Labubu dolls are launched in very small batches.
- Luxury Collabs: Partnerships with brands like Vans and Sacai drive up exclusivity.
- Celebrity Buzz: Hollywood stars and influencers have been seen displaying them.
- Artistic Origins: The dolls are based on Nordic mythology and debuted in Lung’s The Monsters Trilogy book in 2015.
🧸 Top Labubu Sales So Far
- Three Wise Labubu – Sold for $28,300 at Sotheby’s in May
- Sacai x Seventeen x Labubu – Auctioned for $31,250 in June
- Life-sized Labubu doll – Sold for $150,000 via Chinese auction house
- Tall brown Labubu – Closed at $140,000 last month
📈 Collector Outlook: Labubu Is Here to Stay
Art appraiser Dr. Lori Verderame, known for appearances on History and Discovery channels, told Forbes that Labubu dolls are shaping up to be “strong market collectibles for years to come.”
“Their unique look and general appeal are pushing them into blue-chip collectible territory,” she said.