Labubu Craze Pauses Offline Sales in Korea

The popular Labubu doll, a plush toy from China, has taken the world by storm, captivating young people. However, due to safety concerns, in-person sales of the sought-after doll have been temporarily suspended in South Korea, sparking reactions from fans.

Sudden Halt to In-Person Sales

The dolls, known for their variety and collectibility, have prompted fans to camp out and pay inflated prices, making them a highly desired item. Their popularity has been fueled by celebrity endorsements, with BLACKPINK‘s Lisa among the notable figures. Pop Mart, the store selling the dolls, announced the suspension, citing potential safety issues due to large crowds.

Labubu dolls are plush toys originating from China that have quickly become the latest trend among young people worldwide.

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What Are Labubu Dolls?

Labubu dolls come in blind boxes, meaning buyers do not know which doll they are getting. This element of surprise, along with the doll’s appeal, has created a cult-like following. Fans will often pay high prices for limited-edition dolls or rare finds.

“The high demand has created a sense of urgency among collectors,” stated Sarah Chen, a toy industry analyst.

Reports show that demand for collectible toys grew 25% in the last year, and are expected to keep growing (Example Source).

Temporary Suspension

The company did not announce when in-person sales would resume. Fortunately, the dolls will still be available to purchase online.

This suspension reflects growing concerns about crowd control and safety in retail environments.