Human-Sized Labubu Doll Sets Auction Record with Over $150,000 Sale in Beijing
A life-sized Labubu doll has fetched a staggering 1.08 million yuan ($150,324; £110,465) at an auction held by Yongle International Auction House in Beijing, setting a new world record for the highest price paid for a toy of its kind.
Standing at 131 cm (approximately 4 feet 4 inches), this unique Labubu figurine captured the attention of collectors and fans alike. Created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung a decade ago, Labubu dolls have grown increasingly popular over recent years, thanks to their distinct quirky monster designs and the rising wave of celebrity endorsements that propelled them into global pop culture.
The Beijing auction, held on June 10, 2025, was dedicated entirely to Labubu collectibles. In total, 48 Labubu items were auctioned off, attracting around 200 eager bidders. The auction house reported total sales of 3.37 million yuan for the event, underlining the soaring demand for these collectible figures.
Labubu dolls, typically sold by the Chinese toy company Pop Mart, originally retailed for around 50 yuan ($6.95; £5.12). However, their skyrocketing popularity has led to rare pieces fetching astronomical prices in resale markets and exclusive auctions. Pop Mart’s unique sales model—often selling these toys in mystery "blind boxes"—has added an element of surprise and collectibility that fuels consumer excitement.
A major driving force behind the Labubu craze has been celebrity influence. Lisa from K-pop sensation Blackpink frequently showcases her Labubu collection on social media, while international stars like Rihanna, Dua Lipa, and former England football captain David Beckham have also displayed their fondness for the figures. Beckham, for instance, shared a photo of a Labubu figure attached to his bag on Instagram, further amplifying its visibility among global audiences.
The frenzy has not been without controversy. Earlier this year, Pop Mart temporarily pulled Labubu dolls from UK stores following reports of physical altercations among customers vying for limited editions.
Despite these incidents, the surge in Labubu’s popularity has significantly boosted Pop Mart's financial performance. The company reported a revenue of 13 billion yuan in 2024, more than double its earnings from the previous year.
Expanding its international presence, Pop Mart also launched new stores in five countries, including Italy and Spain, solidifying its position as a leading player in the global collectible toy market.
With the latest record-breaking sale, Labubu continues to captivate collectors, celebrities, and fans worldwide, transforming from an art toy into a cultural phenomenon.