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The Labubu Phenomenon: Why the Hype is Still Peak in 2026
It has been several years since Labubu first exploded onto the global scene, but as of January 2026, the obsession in South Korea shows no signs of cooling down. Created by artist Kasing Lung as part of "The Monsters" series, these mischievous, rabbit-eared creatures have transitioned from niche designer toys to high-fashion accessories. The demand in Seoul, fueled by constant K-pop idol endorsements and limited-edition drops, has created a secondary market where prices often triple the original retail value.
The appeal lies in the variety. From the "Have a Seat" vinyl plush series to high-end 1000% Mega Space Molly crossovers featuring Labubu aesthetics, the brand has mastered the art of the "blind box" thrill. However, for the serious collector in South Korea, the local retail experience is often one of frustration and empty shelves.
The Korean Market Bottleneck
If you live in South Korea, you already know the problem: stock disappears within minutes. Whether it is the Pop Mart flagship in Hongdae or the various department store pop-ups, the supply chain cannot keep up with the local frenzy. Furthermore, certain colorways and collaborative editions are often region-locked, released exclusively for the North American or European markets.
This is the "hidden barrier" for Korean collectors. You are often forced to choose between paying exorbitant prices on local resale platforms or missing out on the collection entirely. But there is a third option: buying directly from US-based retailers and official US Pop Mart channels.
Sourcing Directly from US Stores
The US market often receives larger stock allocations and different exclusive series than the Asian market. To get ahead of the curve, savvy collectors are now monitoring US retailers like the official Pop Mart US webstore, Mindzai, and specialized designer toy boutiques. While these stores offer the inventory you want, most do not offer affordable or direct shipping from USA to South Korea.
By expanding your search to the US, you gain access to a much wider inventory of blind boxes and open-box figures that haven't hit the Korean market yet. However, the obstacle remains: how do you get these items across the Pacific without paying more in shipping than the toy itself?
The Logistics of US-to-Korea Shipping
Direct international shipping from US stores is notoriously expensive and often unreliable. This is where using a reliable package forwarder becomes essential. A forwarder provides you with a US-based address to use at checkout, essentially tricking the store into thinking you are a local buyer. Once your Labubu arrives at the US warehouse, the forwarder ships it to your doorstep in South Korea.
Before you commit to a purchase, it is vital to understand the costs involved. You should always use a shipping calculator to get an accurate estimate shipping cost based on the weight and dimensions of your haul. This prevents "sticker shock" when your items reach the warehouse. Additionally, you can compare international shipping rates to ensure you are getting the best deal for express or standard delivery to Seoul, Busan, or anywhere else in the country.
A Note on Restrictions
While vinyl figures are generally safe to ship, always ensure your order doesn't include restricted materials (such as certain cleaning liquids or batteries in motorized versions). You might also like to check the latest list of prohibited items to ensure your package clears export without issues.
Navigating South Korean Customs and Duties
South Korea has specific rules for personal imports. For goods coming from the US, the "De Minimis" threshold is typically $200 USD. If your total order—including domestic US shipping—stays under $200, you are generally exempt from import duties and VAT. However, if you are bulk-buying a whole case of Labubu blind boxes that exceeds this value, you will be liable for customs tax.
| Factor | Limit / Rule |
|---|---|
| Duty-Free Limit (USA to KR) | Up to $200 USD |
| Personal Customs Clearance Code (PCCC) | Required for all imports |
| Item Type | Toys / Collectibles (Usually 8% Duty + 10% VAT if over limit) |
Ensure you have your Personal Customs Clearance Code (PCCC) ready, as the South Korean Customs Service requires this for all incoming international packages.
Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Labubu from the US
If you are ready to complete your collection, follow this step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth experience:
- Step 1: Get Your US Address. Sign up with comGateway to receive a tax-free US shipping address (typically in Oregon).
- Step 2: Shop US Stores. Visit the Pop Mart US site or other retailers and use your new US address at checkout.
- Step 3: Notify the Forwarder. Once you receive your tracking number from the store, upload the details to your forwarding account.
- Step 4: Consolidate and Ship. If you bought from multiple stores, wait for all items to arrive. Consolidating them into one box can significantly reduce international shipping rates.
- Step 5: Pay and Receive. Pay the international shipping fee and wait for your Labubu to arrive at your door in Korea.
By bypassing the local supply chain and leveraging US stock, you no longer have to rely on luck or scalpers. Start sourcing your Labubu figures directly and keep your collection ahead of the trend in 2026.
