The collectible Labubu figures from The Monsters series — created by designer Kasing Lung and distributed by Pop Mart — are taking the global market by storm. Recent data from AliExpress shows that the collectible toy segment has seen an impressive 300% increase in sales volume during the first half of 2025, largely driven by the growing popularity of Labubu figures.
Top Search Rankings
Labubu figures have topped the search rankings on AliExpress for two consecutive weeks, solidifying their status as the platform’s most-wanted collectible toys.
Origin and Unique Design
Originally created as characters in illustrated books, these monsters were brought to life as physical figures by Pop Mart — sold as miniatures, keychains, and plushies inside surprise blind boxes. With their signature wide eyes, round bodies, and subtly fierce smiles, Labubu characters have become icons of contemporary pop culture.
Blind Boxes: Excitement Meets Scarcity
The blind box model adds an element of surprise that excites collectors. A survey by China Youth Daily and the National Student Media found that 69.78% of participants said the “thrill of unboxing” was the main appeal. Experienced resellers often purchase hundreds of boxes, hoping to score rare editions — which can be resold for up to 350 times the original price.
Expansion and Economic Impact
Briza Bueno, LatAm director at AliExpress, emphasized that the Labubu phenomenon awakened a dormant demand for collectibles, breathing new life into the sector. Since the 2025 boom, Pop Mart has launched several new collections, including collaborations with brands like Coca-Cola and One Piece.
A Booming Market
According to Pop Mart’s semiannual report for 2024, The Monsters line generated a staggering 6.3 billion yuan (approximately USD 870 million) in sales in the first half of the year — a clear indicator of the economic power of the collectible market.
🎯 Why This Matters
| Reason | Impact |
|---|---|
| Global Appeal | A viral sensation, fueled by social media and celebrity endorsements, has reached global platforms like AliExpress. |
| Sustainable Model | Blind boxes combine chance and thrill, creating ongoing consumer engagement. |
| Investment Opportunity | Professional resellers identify strong profit potential in rare or limited-edition releases. |
With an irresistible design, clever marketing strategies (like surprise packaging and brand collaborations), and exponential sales growth, Labubu proves that the world of collectibles is stronger than ever. What may look like a simple toy is, in reality, a gold mine for the global market.
Keep an eye out! The Labubu trend could pave the way for new viral collections and make blind box formats a standard across various collectible categories — both within and beyond AliExpress.
