Is It Actually Worth Importing Labubu from the USA to Korea? The Real Cost Breakdown

The Labubu Craze: Why the Obsession Continues in 2026

As we move through 2026, the fascination with Labubu—the mischievous monster created by Kasing Lung—shows no signs of slowing down in South Korea. What started as a niche designer toy trend has exploded into a mainstream cultural phenomenon. Whether it is the classic blind boxes or the oversized plush pendants seen hanging from the bags of K-pop idols, Labubu has become a must-have accessory for collectors in Seoul and beyond.

However, high demand often leads to supply shortages in local stores. This scarcity has driven many Korean fans to look toward the United States, where stock levels at major retailers like Pop Mart US or specialized boutique toy shops are sometimes more stable. But before you click "buy," you need to determine if the international journey is financially justified.

Price Comparison: US Retail vs. Korea Resale

In South Korea, popular Labubu series often sell out within minutes, leading to a thriving but expensive resale market on platforms like Kream or Danggeun Market. In many cases, collectors are paying a 50% to 100% premium over the original retail price just to secure a specific figure.

In contrast, US retailers typically list these items at standard MSRP. Even with the current exchange rates in 2026, the base price in the US is often significantly lower. However, the true cost includes more than just the sticker price. You must account for domestic US shipping, international freight, and potential taxes. To get a better sense of the strategy involved, Read more: The Lazy Collector’s Shortcut to Scoring Rare Labubu Figures from the USA.

Shipping Logistics: The Role of a Reliable Package Forwarder

The biggest hurdle for Korean collectors is that many US-based toy stores do not offer direct international shipping to South Korea, or if they do, the rates are prohibitively expensive. This is where using a reliable package forwarder becomes essential. By using a service like comGateway, you get a sales-tax-free US shipping address (typically in Oregon), which allows you to shop like a local and save on US domestic taxes.

Using a forwarder also allows for "consolidation." If you are buying multiple Labubus from different sellers, you can have them all sent to your US address and then shipped to Korea in one single box, which significantly reduces the cost per item.

Calculating the Real Cost: Shipping and Fees

Before committing to a purchase, it is vital to estimate shipping cost using an online shipping calculator. Labubu figures are generally lightweight, but their packaging can be bulky. International shipping rates are often calculated based on volumetric weight, so knowing the approximate dimensions of the box is helpful.

You might also like to explore the BuyForMe service if you encounter a US website that does not accept Korean credit cards. This assisted purchase feature ensures you don't miss out on limited-edition releases just because of payment restrictions.

Navigating South Korean Customs and Import Duties

South Korea has specific rules regarding international imports. Under the KORUS FTA, goods imported from the USA for personal use are generally exempt from import duties and customs tax as long as the total value (including domestic US shipping) is under $200 USD. However, if your Labubu haul exceeds this amount, you will be subject to GST/VAT and additional duties.

For a deeper dive into how these charges are calculated, you can check the import duties section on our blog. Remember that you will need a Personal Customs Clearance (PCC) code for any package entering South Korea. For more localized advice, Read more: Read This Before You Buy Labubu from the USA to South Korea.

How to Buy Labubu from the USA: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you have decided that the US price is right, here is a step-by-step guide on how it works:

• Step 1: Register for a free US address at comGateway.
• Step 2: Shop at your favorite US toy retailers and enter your comGateway Oregon address at checkout.
• Step 3: Once your items arrive at the US warehouse, you will be notified. You can then choose to consolidate packages or ship them immediately.
• Step 4: Select your preferred method for shipping from USA to South Korea.
• Step 5: Track your package and provide your PCC code when prompted by the local courier.

For more details on the logistics of getting your items home, see our how it works page.

Safety First: Prohibited Items and Restrictions

While Labubu figures are generally safe to ship, it is always wise to double-check the list of prohibited items or restricted goods. For example, if you are buying a Labubu-themed electronic gadget that contains a lithium battery, there may be specific shipping requirements or limitations. Always consult the prohibited items guide to ensure your package won't be held up at the border.

The Final Verdict: Is It Actually Worth It?

So, is it worth it? In 2026, the answer is a resounding yes—provided you are buying rare items or multiple figures at once. The savings on the retail price compared to the Korean resale market often more than cover the international shipping costs. Furthermore, using a specialized service for shipping from USA to South Korea ensures that your collectibles are handled with care and arrive safely.

By leveraging a package forwarder and staying under the $200 duty-free limit, you can build your Labubu collection for a fraction of the local cost. Read more: Is It Actually Worth Importing Labubu from the US to Korea? The Real Cost Breakdown for a side-by-side price analysis of the latest 2026 series.

Happy collecting!