Labubu, the mischievous, wide-eyed creature created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, has become one of the most sought-after designer toys in the world. Over the past several years, its popularity has expanded far beyond Asia, inspiring dedicated fan communities in Europe, the United States and, increasingly, Labubu Canada. For new collectors in Canada, entering the world of Labubu can be exciting, confusing and sometimes overwhelming, especially when navigating releases, pricing and the growing secondary market. This guide offers a detailed introduction to Labubu collecting, helping new fans start their journey with confidence and clarity.
Understanding the Appeal of Labubu
Before diving into collecting strategies, it’s helpful to understand why Labubu has attracted such a passionate following. Labubu’s charm lies in its playful yet eerie aesthetic, which blends cuteness with a hint of darkness. Each version brings a distinct personality, colourway or theme, giving collectors the sense of discovering entirely new characters in the same whimsical world. The limited-edition nature of The Monsters series also fuels excitement, as each drop feels like an event. In Canada, where designer toy culture is still comparatively niche, owning a Labubu can feel like being part of a small but vibrant creative community.
Where to Buy Labubu in Canada
New collectors in Canada often discover that obtaining Labubus can feel like a treasure hunt. Although Canada does not have the same number of physical toy shops or pop-ups as Hong Kong, Taiwan or Singapore, there are reliable ways to participate in releases. The most common method is the official POP MART app or website, where many Labubu series debut. Canadian fans can order directly, though shipping times may vary. Some Canadian retailers, particularly specialty toy stores in major cities, occasionally carry Labubu blind boxes or pre-order opportunities. Shops in Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal sometimes host designer toy events or receive small allocations of new releases, making them ideal stops for collectors who enjoy browsing in person. Online communities also play an important role. Canadian Facebook groups, Discord servers and Instagram sellers often facilitate trades and resales within the country, reducing shipping costs and minimizing the risk associated with international purchases.
Understanding Prices and the Secondary Market
One of the most common challenges new collectors face is determining what constitutes a fair price. Labubu releases typically sell at retail for accessible amounts when purchased directly from POP MART or official event channels. However, due to limited supply and global demand, many sought-after Labubus soar in value on the secondary market. Prices depend on rarity, condition, edition size and market trends. For example, main characters or secret editions often command significantly higher prices than common figures from blind boxes. New collectors should take time to observe market values before making purchases. Platforms such as Carousell, StockX and established Facebook groups can help identify typical resale prices. Patience often pays off. Many collectors initially get swept up in the excitement and overspend, but a steadier approach can lead to better deals and more thoughtful collecting habits.
Avoiding Scams and Staying Safe
Designer toys, especially high-value ones like Labubu, have attracted impersonators and fraudulent sellers. New collectors in Canada should prioritize safe buying practices. Verified sellers, established marketplaces and local meet-ups help reduce risk. Asking for timestamped photos, original packaging details and purchase receipts can also provide assurance. Within Canada, meeting in person is ideal when possible. Cities such as Toronto and Vancouver have active toy-collecting communities where collectors frequently arrange safe meet-ups in public locations. If buying online, choosing platforms that offer buyer protection is essential. Scams often target newcomers who are unfamiliar with typical market prices. Being aware of unusually low prices, vague descriptions or pressure to finalize a sale quickly can help collectors avoid losing money.
Building a Collection with Purpose
One of the most enjoyable aspects of Labubu collecting is developing a personal collecting style. New fans often feel tempted to buy every release, but a more sustainable approach is to collect based on personal taste rather than hype. Labubu comes in a wide variety of themes, from fantasy creatures to seasonal variations and crossover collaborations. Some collectors focus on a single series, such as the Fairy Tale Labubus or the Holiday collections, while others build a diverse display representing many different styles. Choosing what resonates emotionally creates a collection that feels meaningful rather than overwhelming. Space is also a practical consideration. Although Labubus are small, they add up quickly. Many Canadian collectors invest in display cabinets, wall shelves or glass cases to protect their figures from dust and sunlight, especially during harsh Canadian winters when indoor air can become dry.
Joining the Canadian Labubu Community
One of the best ways to grow in the hobby is by connecting with other collectors. The Canadian Labubu community has expanded rapidly, especially on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook. These platforms allow collectors to share photos, showcase displays, announce trades and celebrate new releases together. What makes the Canadian community unique is its friendliness and collaborative spirit. Many experienced collectors are eager to help newcomers avoid common pitfalls and find fair trades. Canadian toy conventions and pop culture events sometimes feature designer toy vendors and artist collaborations, offering a great opportunity to see Labubus in person. Even though such events are less frequent in Canada than in other regions, they remain an important part of the hobby for many fans.
Preparing for Drops and Special Releases
Labubu releases can be competitive, especially limited editions or event exclusives. New fans often find the process stressful at first, but preparation makes a significant difference. Creating a POP MART account in advance, loading payment information and ensuring stable internet speeds all help increase the chance of securing new releases. Time zones also matter, since many releases follow schedules set by Asian markets. Canadian collectors should pay attention to release announcements on POP MART’s official channels and adjust accordingly. Some drops sell out within minutes, turning the process into a thrilling challenge that unites collectors worldwide.
Enjoying the Journey
Above all, collecting Labubu in Canada should be fun. The hobby thrives on creativity, nostalgia, artistry and community. Whether a collector owns a single figure or an entire display wall, the Labubu Bag joy comes from appreciating the imagination behind each character and sharing that excitement with others. For newcomers, the journey begins with curiosity and continues with learning, connecting and discovering what makes the Labubu universe so enchanting. Canada’s growing collector scene ensures that no one enters the hobby alone. With patience, awareness and a sense of playfulness, every new fan can build a collection that reflects their personality and passion.
