Tiny Monster, Big Trend: Inside the Labubu Craze

It always starts innocently, doesn’t it? One minute you’re scrolling through TikTok or Instagram Reels, and next thing you know, you’re staring at a furry little gremlin grasped onto someone’s designer purse. Maybe it’s poking out of a K-pop haul or grooving to a fan edit. You pause. You think: “What is that weirdly cute thing?”
And then you find out: it’s Labubu, and you immediately crave one for yourself. I did as well and made my way to Temu.

What Is Labubu Anyway?

Labubu can appear to be a pretty face, in fact she is the star of The Monsters, an imaginatively whimsical toy universe designed by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung and brought to life by vinyl toy giant Pop Mart. Drawn from Norse mythology but saturated in snug-cosy adorableness, Labubu has a whole entourage of monster friends and even a boyfriend named Tycoco.

But she’s not just a toy, Labubu has gone from small-time collectible to full-blown pop culture phenomenon.

The Rise of the Labubu Craze

Like any viral trend, it just required the right mix of TikTok + K-pop.
BLACKPINK member Lisa led the way in being seen outside publicly going ga-ga over Labubu, flaunting her mini collection. Next was Rihanna, and suddenly Labubu was the surprise designer handbag accessory everyone was talking about.

Collectors, fashionistas, and all things fuzzy-design enthusiasts soon caught on. Due to Pop Mart’s blind box package (you don’t know what’s inside until you crack it open), the hunt was also part of the pleasure.

But check out prices, though? Gulp. A single blind box of Labubu might run $30 or higher, and the secondary market is sky-high. That was when I headed to the internet’s bargain bin of choice: Temu.

Temu vs. Official Labubu: What’s the Deal?

Let’s get something straight: Temu isn’t Pop Mart. Theirs are unofficial versions frequently called dupes or inspired collectibles of the dolls they’re hawking. If, though, you’re looking to dip your toes into the Labubu trend without burning your wallet, it’s a compelling option.

At Temu, Labubu-like dolls range from $4.80 to $6.95, while clothes and accessories range from $3.89 to $17.14. Some listings even include outfits or multiple accessories in one bundle, a steal if you ask me.

My Honest Review of Temu’s Labubu

My experience? Mixed but not disappointing.

  • The Pros:
    • Super affordable
    • Surprisingly soft and huggable
    • Great for casual fans or gifting
    • Tons of outfit and accessory options
  • The Cons:
    • Noticeable differences in face shape, ear size, and fur texture compared to the real Pop Mart version
    • Some craftsmanship issues (wonky stitching, slightly off expressions)
    • Packaging can be underwhelming

If you’re looking for a true collector’s item, Temu might not cut it. But if you’re just hopping on the Labubu bandwagon for fun or aesthetics, it’s a solid gateway.

Final Thoughts

Labubu isn’t just a toy, it’s a tiny bundle of charm, chaos, and personality that somehow steals your heart. Whether you’re splurging on an official Pop Mart blind box or clicking “add to cart” on a Temu dupe at 2 a.m., it’s really about the fun of the find and the joy that comes with it.

Mine? She’s not perfect. Her ears are a little uneven, her smile’s a bit off-center, and her fur isn’t exactly plush. But she’s got character. She sits on my desk now, watching me work like a mischievous little sidekick and honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Meet Your Next Labubu on Temu