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The Labubu Phenomenon in 2026
It has been a few years since the mischievous forest elf Labubu first took the world by storm, but in 2026, the obsession in South Korea has reached a fever pitch. What started as a niche designer toy trend has evolved into a mainstream cultural staple. From being spotted on the bags of K-pop idols to dominating the shelves of high-end lifestyle stores in Gangnam, Labubu is more than just a toy—it is a status symbol.
However, for many collectors in South Korea, the local market can be incredibly frustrating. New releases sell out in seconds, and the resale prices on local platforms like KREAM or Danggeun Market are often double or triple the original retail price. This scarcity has led many experienced hobbyists to look elsewhere, specifically toward the United States, to find the "hidden gems" that are no longer available on Korean soil.
Why the US Market is a Hidden Gem for Collectors
While Labubu’s creator, Kasing Lung, and Pop Mart have a massive presence in Asia, the US market often operates on a different release cycle. This creates a unique opportunity for South Korean buyers. Often, a series that has completely vanished from Asian markets might still be sitting in stock on US-based websites like Pop Mart US, Mindzai, or even specialized designer toy boutiques in Los Angeles and New York.
Furthermore, the US secondary market, including platforms like eBay and StockX, often features rare variants or older "blind box" series that are nearly impossible to find in Korea. By shopping in the US, you aren't just looking for a deal; you are looking for availability that simply doesn't exist locally in 2026.
How to Navigate US Stores from South Korea
Shopping on US websites can sometimes be tricky due to payment restrictions or regional shipping limitations. Many US retailers do not offer direct international shipping to South Korea, or if they do, the costs are prohibitively high. This is where the how it works step-by-step guide becomes essential for any serious importer.
If you encounter a store that does not accept international credit cards, you don't have to give up on that rare Labubu find. You can utilize a BuyForMe service. This assisted purchase option allows a professional team to handle the transaction on your behalf, ensuring you don't miss out on limited-edition drops due to technical payment hurdles.
You might also like: The Lazy Collector’s Shortcut to Scoring Rare Labubu Figures from the USA.
The Secret Weapon: Package Forwarding
The biggest challenge for Korean collectors is the lack of direct shipping. To bridge this gap, you need a reliable package forwarder. By using a service like comGateway, you are provided with a dedicated US shipping address. When you purchase your Labubu figures, you simply ship them to this US warehouse. Once they arrive, they can be inspected, consolidated with other purchases, and then shipped directly to your doorstep in South Korea.
For frequent collectors, looking into Prime membership benefits can save a significant amount of money over time. Prime members often enjoy discounted shipping rates and extended storage times, which is perfect if you are waiting for multiple blind boxes to arrive at the warehouse before shipping them all to Korea at once.
Calculating Costs and International Shipping Rates
Before you hit the "buy" button, it is vital to understand the total cost of ownership. This includes the retail price, US domestic shipping, international freight, and potential import duties. To avoid any surprises, you should use a shipping calculator to get a clear picture of what you will be paying.
Keep in mind that international shipping rates are calculated based on either actual weight or volumetric weight. Since Labubu figures are generally light but can come in bulky packaging, consolidation is your best friend. Combining several figures into one box can drastically reduce the price per item.
Check our guide on: Is It Actually Worth Importing Labubu from the USA to Korea? The Real Cost Breakdown.
South Korea Customs and Import Rules
Importing goods into South Korea in 2026 requires a bit of local knowledge. The most important factor is the "de minimis" threshold. For goods imported from the USA, you can generally import up to $200 USD (including domestic shipping within the US) without paying any customs duties or Value Added Tax (VAT), thanks to the KORUS FTA. However, if your total exceeds this amount, be prepared to pay around 18-20% in combined taxes.
Additionally, you must ensure you have a Personal Customs Clearance Code (PCCC), which is easily obtainable via the Korea Customs Service website. Also, always double-check the list of prohibited items. While vinyl toys are perfectly safe, certain electronics or liquids often sold in lifestyle stores alongside toys might be restricted.
Read more: Read This Before You Buy Labubu from the USA to South Korea.
Is It Worth It?
To give you an idea of the potential savings and availability, let’s look at a typical comparison for a rare Labubu 200% figure in 2026:
| Factor | Purchasing in South Korea (Resale) | Purchasing from US (via comGateway) |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Very Low / Resell Only | Moderate (Retail or eBay) |
| Item Price | ₩450,000+ | ~$150 - $200 USD |
| Shipping | ₩4,000 (Local) | ~$25 - $40 USD |
| Total (Approx) | ₩454,000 | ~₩310,000 - ₩340,000 |
As you can see, even with international shipping fees, the "Hidden US Route" can save you over ₩100,000 while giving you access to stock that simply isn't available at the Starfield COEX Mall or other local hotspots. By leveraging a reliable package forwarder, you turn the entire US market into your personal toy chest.
In conclusion, if you are a serious Labubu collector in South Korea, don't limit yourself to local shops. The US market is a treasure trove of rare finds and better prices, provided you have the right logistics partner to bring them home safely.
