Labubu Blind Boxes return tonight: What collectors need to know — price, pre-order details & more

Global toy company Pop Mart will re-open pre-orders for its popular Labubu blind boxes tonight, Aug. 21, at 9:30 p.m. ET. The series, called The Monsters Big into Energy, has been one of the fastest-selling releases in recent months, and fans are already anticipating a sell-out within minutes.

Pre-orders Begin Tonight on Pop Mart App

According to Pop Mart’s official website, pre-orders for the Monsters Big into Energy Series – Vinyl Plush Pendant Blind Box will go live exclusively on the company’s mobile application. Customers can download the app through the Google Play Store or the App Store.

Pop Mart has urged fans to ensure the app is updated before attempting purchases, as demand is expected to be extremely high. The estimated shipping date for orders placed on Aug. 21 is October 11, as per a report by USA Today.


Both single blind boxes and complete sets will be made available. Whole sets include six different boxes from the new series.

What is a Labubu?

Labubu is the creation of Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, who first introduced the character in 2015 through picture books based on Nordic mythology. The doll features a large head, sharp teeth, and prominent eyes, often described as equal parts mischievous and adorable.

According to Pop Mart, “Despite a mischievous look, Labubu is kind-hearted and always wants to help, but often accidentally achieves the opposite.”

Over the years, Labubu has become the centerpiece of The Monsters line, appearing in a wide range of costumes and styles. From plush toys dressed as pumpkins to figurines carrying soda bottles or styled as shrimp tempura, the collectible has become a global phenomenon.

What Are Blind Boxes?

Blind boxes are collectible packages that conceal their contents until opened, adding an element of surprise for buyers. Popular across Asia and increasingly in Western markets, blind boxes can feature characters from franchises such as Hello Kitty, Winnie the Pooh, or Japanese manga like One Piece.

Some items within a series are produced in smaller numbers, making them rarer and more valuable. Collectors often seek out these rare editions, sometimes reselling them at higher prices in online marketplaces.

Labubu blind boxes, part of Pop Mart’s The Monsters collection, have been among the company’s most popular offerings.

Price of the New Labubu Series

The Big into Energy blind box has been listed at USD 27.99, not including taxes and shipping charges. For those opting to purchase a complete set of six blind boxes, the total cost will be USD 167.94.

Pop Mart is also offering free shipping for orders above USD 29 made through its app and website.

Previous Sell-outs Signal Strong Demand

Earlier this week, when customers attempted to pre-order the Big into Energy Labubu blind boxes, the items sold out within less than a minute. Many users reported receiving error codes that indicated the items were “too popular.”

After refreshing the app, buyers found that all units had been sold. With tonight’s relaunch, demand is expected to be equally strong, prompting fans to prepare well in advance.

Growing Popularity of Labubu

What began as a regional art project has grown into a worldwide craze. Labubu keychains and plush toys are now sold across Asia, Europe, and North America. The character’s quirky appearance, featuring nine sharp teeth and oversized eyes, has contributed to its cult following.

While some consider Labubu’s design frightening, others regard it as irresistibly cute. This split in perception has only added to its charm, fueling conversations on social media and enhancing its cultural appeal.

Beware of Counterfeit Labubus, or “Lafufus”

With Labubu’s growing popularity, counterfeit versions of the toy—often called “Lafufus”—have appeared online. Consumer safety groups have issued alerts warning fans against fraudulent sellers.

Signs of counterfeit Labubus include:

• Steep discounts on unofficial websites
  
• Packaging without a holographic Pop Mart sticker or QR code
  
• Lack of preview cards inside the box
  
• Incorrect details, such as the wrong number of teeth (authentic Labubus have nine)
  
• No UV stamp on newer versions of the doll
  
• Missing safety labeling on packaging
  
• Resealable plastic bags instead of tear-open packaging
  

Authorities advise customers to purchase only from Pop Mart’s official app, TikTok account, Amazon store, or verified retailers to avoid counterfeit products.

Labubus Collectors’ Market and Resale Value

The resale market for Labubu blind boxes has surged in recent years. Rare Labubu figurines and plushes often sell for several times their retail price on platforms like eBay or dedicated collector forums.

Experts note that the limited supply and unpredictable nature of blind boxes drive this secondary market. For some collectors, securing a rare Labubu is both a personal achievement and a potential financial investment, as per a report by USA Today.

Pop Mart’s Expansion

Beijing-based Pop Mart has become a global leader in the designer toy industry. By collaborating with independent artists and launching series like Labubu’s The Monsters, the company has established a strong presence in both Asian and Western markets.

The company’s strategy of combining exclusivity with surprise has proven successful, especially among younger buyers drawn to limited-edition collectibles.

Labubu Blind Boxes: How to Secure Tonight’s Pre-order

Given past sell-outs, collectors are advised to:

1. Download or update the Pop Mart app in advance.
   
2. Log in early to avoid technical glitches.
   
3. Ensure payment details are ready to streamline checkout.
   
4. Refresh the app quickly if error messages appear.
   

Even with preparation, however, many fans may still miss out, given the expected surge in demand.

FAQs

When do pre-orders for the new Labubu blind boxes open?

Pre-orders reopen tonight, August 21, at 9:30 p.m. ET, exclusively on the Pop Mart mobile app.

Where can I buy the new Labubu blind boxes?

The Pop Mart app (available on the App Store and Google Play) is the only place for tonight’s pre-orders. Fans are advised to update the app beforehand to avoid issues.