The 2026 Labubu Phenomenon: Why Everyone is Collecting
As we move through 2026, the obsession with Labubu—the mischievous monster with serrated teeth and a heart of gold—has reached a fever pitch in South Korea. Created by artist Kasing Lung as part of 'The Monsters' series, Labubu has transcended the world of designer toys to become a global fashion icon. While the character has been popular for years, its recent explosion in the US market has created a unique opportunity for collectors in South Korea to find rare editions that are often sold out locally.
The hype is driven by limited-edition drops, high-profile celebrity endorsements, and the sheer variety of the 'blind box' culture. Whether it is the classic plush pendants or the larger vinyl figures, Labubu has become a must-have accessory. However, since the demand in Seoul often outstrips the supply at local Pop Mart branches, many savvy collectors are turning their eyes toward the United States.
The Cheat Sheet for Sourcing Labubu from US Stores
Buying from the US isn't just about availability; it is often about price and variety. US retailers frequently stock exclusive colorways or collaborations that are region-locked. To get started, you should monitor the following platforms:
- Pop Mart US Official: The primary source for authentic releases.
- NTWRK: A popular livestream shopping app in the US known for exclusive designer toy drops.
- StockX and GOAT: Reliable secondary markets for verified authentic rare Labubu figures.
- Specialty Toy Boutiques: Shops like Mindzai or Myplasticheart often carry 'The Monsters' collections.
The main hurdle for Korean shoppers is that many of these US-based stores do not offer direct international shipping, or if they do, the costs are prohibitive. This is where using a reliable package forwarder like comGateway becomes essential for your collection strategy.
How to Ship Your Labubu to South Korea
If you have never shopped from a US store before, the process is simpler than it looks. Using a forwarder gives you a dedicated US shipping address, allowing you to shop at any US retailer as if you lived there. For a clear step-by-step guide on setting up your account and managing your packages, visit our how it works page.
Once your Labubu arrives at the US warehouse, you can choose when to ship it to South Korea. One of the best ways to save money is through package consolidation—combining multiple orders into one box to reduce the base shipping rate. Before you commit to a purchase, it is a smart move to use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost based on the weight and dimensions of the toy.
Localization: What South Korean Buyers Need to Know
Shipping to South Korea in 2026 involves a few specific regulations that you must keep in mind to ensure a smooth delivery. The most important factor is the Personal Customs Clearance Code (PCCC). Every individual importing goods into South Korea must have one to clear customs.
Customs and Taxes for US Imports
Under the current trade agreements in 2026, goods shipped from the USA to South Korea enjoy a 'de minimis' threshold. This means if your total order value (including domestic US shipping) is under **$200 USD**, you are generally exempt from duties and taxes. However, if your Labubu haul exceeds this amount, you will be liable for import duties and customs tax. For a deeper dive into how these fees are calculated, check our guide on GST/VAT and international taxes.
| Category | Details for South Korea (2026) |
|---|---|
| Duty-Free Limit | Up to $200 USD (from USA) |
| Required Info | Personal Customs Clearance Code (PCCC) |
| Prohibited Items | Standard restrictions (flammables, etc.) apply to toy accessories |
| Average Transit Time | 3–5 business days via Express |
Maximizing Your Savings with Membership
For the serious Labubu hunter who plans on buying every new wave of blind boxes, a standard account might not be enough. You can unlock significant discounts and priority processing by looking into Prime membership benefits. These membership perks often include discounted shipping rates, which are invaluable when you are frequently shipping from USA to South Korea.
By using a US address, you also avoid the high markups found on local Korean resale sites. Even after accounting for international shipping, buying directly from a US retail drop often results in a 20-30% saving compared to the local gray market prices in Seoul.
Final Tips for Labubu Collectors
1. **Speed is Key:** Labubu drops sell out in seconds. Have your US shipping address from comGateway saved in your browser's autofill for faster checkout.
2. **Check the Dimensions:** Some Labubu plushes are quite bulky. Always check the box size to get an accurate estimate of your shipping fees.
3. **Insurance:** Given the high resale value of Labubu in 2026, always opt for shipping insurance for your high-value figures.
4. **Stay Updated:** Follow US toy bloggers and the official Pop Mart US social media accounts to stay ahead of the release calendar.
With this cheat sheet, you are now ready to navigate the US market and grow your Labubu collection with ease. Happy hunting!
