The Lazy Collector’s Shortcut to Scoring Rare Labubu Figures from the USA

The Labubu Craze in 2026: Why the Hype Persists

It is January 2026, and the obsession with Labubu, the mischievous monster from Kasing Lung’s "The Monsters" series, shows no signs of slowing down. What started as a niche designer toy trend has exploded into a global phenomenon. In South Korea, the demand often outstrips local supply within minutes of a release. From the fuzzy plush pendants to the high-end 1000% figures, Labubu has become a staple for collectors who value both aesthetic and investment potential.

The primary reason for the trend's longevity in 2026 is the constant stream of exclusive collaborations and US-only releases. While stores in Seoul might have long queues and limited stock, US-based retailers often receive different allocations, making the American market a goldmine for savvy collectors who don't want to wait in line.

Why Shopping USA Stores is the Ultimate Shortcut

If you are tired of seeing "Sold Out" on Korean websites, the easiest shortcut is to look toward the West. US retailers like Pop Mart US, Mindzai, and various boutique designer toy shops often have stock that is unavailable in Asia. Additionally, the second-hand market in the US can sometimes offer better deals on rare past releases.

However, many of these stores do not offer direct international shipping to South Korea, or if they do, the costs are prohibitively high. This is where the "lazy" strategy comes into play. Instead of dealing with complicated international checkouts, collectors use a reliable package forwarder like comGateway to bridge the gap.

The Lazy Way to Ship: Using a Reliable Package Forwarder

Using a package forwarder is the secret weapon for effortless international shopping. When you sign up for comGateway, you receive a dedicated US shipping address. You can use this address at any US online store just like a local resident. Once your Labubu figures arrive at the warehouse, they can be consolidated and sent to your doorstep in South Korea.

This method simplifies shipping from USA to South Korea because it bypasses the shipping restrictions of individual retailers. You no longer have to worry if a specific shop ships to Seoul; if they ship within the US, you can buy it.

No Math Required: Estimating Your Shipping Costs

One of the biggest hurdles for shoppers is the fear of hidden fees. To keep it simple, you should always check the international shipping rates before you commit to a purchase. This allows you to understand the base costs involved in moving your treasures across the Pacific.

For an even more precise figure, use a shipping calculator. By inputting the estimated weight and dimensions of your Labubu box, you can estimate shipping cost in seconds. This prevents any surprises when your package is ready to be dispatched to Korea.

You might also like to check our guide on the financial side: Read more: Is It Actually Worth Importing Labubu from the US to Korea? The Real Cost Breakdown.

The 'Buy For Me' Hack for Busy Shoppers

Sometimes, US stores won't accept international credit cards, or the checkout process is just too tedious. If you want the ultimate shortcut, the BuyForMe service is your best friend. With this assisted purchase option, you simply tell the experts what you want to buy, and they handle the entire transaction for you. It is the perfect solution for busy shoppers who just want their Labubu without the digital paperwork.

Check our guide on the specific tactics for rare items: Read more: The Secret Method Korean Collectors Use to Score Rare Labubu Releases from the USA.

Navigating South Korea Customs the Easy Way

When importing to South Korea in 2026, there are a few rules you need to follow to ensure your Labubu doesn't get stuck at the border. Generally, goods valued under $150 (or $200 for US-made goods under certain conditions) are exempt from import duties and GST/VAT. However, rules can be specific, so it is wise to stay informed about customs tax thresholds.

Before you ship, ensure your items are not on the list of prohibited items or restricted goods. While vinyl toys are generally safe, any accompanying liquids (like cleaning kits) or electronics might have different rules.

You might also like: Read more: Read This Before You Buy Labubu from the USA to South Korea.

Pro Tips for Korean Collectors

To maximize your savings and minimize effort, consider these three tips:

• Consolidate: Don't ship one Labubu at a time. Wait for a few to arrive at your US address and ship them together to save on the first-half-kilogram shipping fee.
• PCCC: Always have your Personal Customs Clearance Code (PCCC) ready. This is mandatory for all imports into South Korea.
• Insurance: Rare Labubu figures can be expensive. Always opt for shipping insurance to protect your investment during its journey from the USA.

By following this shortcut, you can spend less time worrying about logistics and more time enjoying your growing Labubu collection. Happy hunting!