Human-sized Labubu dolls have crossed over from quirky desk toys to six-figure art sensations. A mint-green, life-size figure standing 131 cm tall sold for 1.08 million yuan (about US $150 000) at Beijing’s Yongle International Auction. The record-breaking price shows that a blind-box collectible can rival fine art on the global stage.
Yongle held its first-ever Labubu-only sale on June 10. Forty-eight lots went under the hammer, with roughly 200 bidders in the room and another 200 online.
Starting bids all began at zero yuan, fueling fierce competition that pushed the total haul to nearly half a million euros. The novel auction format and the buzz it generated helped transform what was once a niche toy into headline news.
What makes this moment truly noteworthy is Labubu’s journey from factory shelves to art galleries. Created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung and popularized by blind-box giant Pop Mart, these vinyl figures built a devoted cult following. Celebrity fans added fuel to the fire.
Blackpink’s Lisa was spotted flaunting a keychain version, and David Beckham shared his own on social media. “It was the only one available in the world,” the auctioneer said of the record-setting mint-green piece, underscoring its one-of-a-kind allure.
This sale reflects a broader shift in collectibles culture. Digital assets and NFTs have grabbed headlines recently, yet Labubu proves that tangible art toys still hold powerful appeal.
Rarity, playful design, and an emotional bond can outshine pixels on a screen. Collectors now view these dolls as serious investments, marrying childhood nostalgia with savvy market instincts.
Pop Mart’s blind-box strategy drives much of this craze. Buyers purchase without knowing which design they’ll get, and limited runs spawn secret variants that collectors hunt like treasures.
Fans trade relentlessly to complete sets, attend pop-up events, and log countless hours on online forums. That element of surprise and community keeps demand sky-high and turns a simple vinyl elf into a status symbol.
Whether you’re a dedicated toy enthusiast or intrigued by how art and commerce collide, this story stands out. It demonstrates the power of creativity, marketing, and community to elevate everyday objects into cultural icons. Labubu’s landmark auction isn’t just about big money. It’s a snapshot of how value gets redefined in today’s market.
Don’t miss a single detail of this fascinating auction spectacle. Check out the full article for all the inside scoop on how a playful monster doll became a six-figure masterpiece.
