The 2026 Labubu Phenomenon: Why Everyone is Looking to the US
If you have been keeping an eye on the designer toy market in Seoul recently, you know that the Labubu craze has reached unprecedented heights in 2026. Created by artist Kasing Lung and brought to life by Pop Mart, these mischievous monsters have transitioned from niche collectibles to mainstream cultural icons. In South Korea, demand often outstrips local supply within minutes of a release, leading many savvy collectors to look toward the United States for their next big score.
But why the US? While South Korea has its own vibrant toy scene, the US market often receives exclusive colorways, blind box series, and limited-edition collaborations that aren't readily available in Asia. Furthermore, major US retailers and secondary markets like eBay or specialized toy boutiques often have stock of older 'The Monsters' series that have long been sold out in local Korean shops. However, buying internationally comes with its own set of challenges—from payment hurdles to the complexities of trans-Pacific logistics.
The Challenge of International Shipping to South Korea
Most US-based retailers do not offer direct shipping to South Korea, or if they do, the costs are prohibitively high and the tracking is unreliable. This is where a reliable package forwarder becomes essential. By using a service like comGateway, you get a dedicated US shipping address. This allows you to shop at any US store as if you were a local resident, providing access to a much wider range of Labubu releases.
Before you commit to a purchase, it is vital to understand the total investment. You should always use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost. This prevents any 'sticker shock' when your package arrives at the warehouse. You might also like to check our detailed analysis: Read more: Is It Actually Worth Importing Labubu from the US to Korea? The Real Cost Breakdown.
How to Buy Labubu from US Stores in 2026
Navigating US e-commerce sites can be tricky if you are doing it from overseas. Here is the step-by-step process most Korean collectors are using this year:
- Identify the Store: Popular options include Pop Mart’s official US site, Mintyfresh, and even major platforms like Amazon or eBay for rare finds.
- Check Payment Compatibility: Some US stores are notorious for rejecting non-US credit cards. If you find yourself unable to complete a transaction, don't panic. You can use the BuyForMe service for an assisted purchase. This service handles the transaction on your behalf, ensuring you don't miss out on high-demand drops.
- Use Your US Address: At checkout, enter the US address provided by your forwarder. This ensures your Labubu is sent to a tax-free warehouse (like those in Oregon) before being shipped to Korea.
For those looking for an edge in the competitive market, you should check our guide on: Read more: The Secret Method Korean Collectors Use to Score Rare Labubu Releases from the USA.
Customs, Regulations, and Prohibited Items
When shipping from the USA to South Korea, you must be aware of the Korea Customs Service (KCS) regulations. As of 2026, the 'de minimis' threshold for duty-free imports from the US is generally $200 USD (for personal use), thanks to the KORUS FTA. However, if your Labubu collection exceeds this value, you will be liable for VAT and import duties.
Furthermore, while vinyl toys are generally safe, always double-check the list of prohibited items or restricted goods. For instance, if your Labubu comes with electronic components or specific types of batteries, different rules might apply. Ensuring your items are compliant will prevent your package from being held at Incheon Customs.
Optimizing Your Shipping Experience
To make the most of shipping from USA to South Korea, consider consolidating your packages. If you are buying multiple blind boxes or several different figures, wait for them all to arrive at the US warehouse. Consolidating multiple orders into one international shipment can significantly reduce the cost per item.
| Feature | Benefit for Korean Collectors |
|---|---|
| US Address | Access to US-only Labubu exclusives. |
| Tax-Free Warehouse | Save on US sales tax (approx. 7-10%). |
| Consolidation | Lower shipping fees for large collections. |
| BuyForMe | Overcome US credit card restrictions. |
In conclusion, while the hunt for Labubu can be intense, the US market offers a wealth of opportunities for those in South Korea willing to navigate the international shipping route. By using a professional service and staying informed on customs rules, you can grow your collection with ease. For a final checklist, don't miss our latest resource: Read more: The 2026 Cheat Sheet for Buying Labubu from the USA to South Korea.
