Mint green Labubu fetches 1 million yuan at Beijing auction

A one-of-a-kind mint green Labubu figure made headlines after selling for a hammer price of 1.08 million yuan (about $150,000) at the Yongle Spring Auction 2025. With an additional 15 percent buyer's premium – amounting to 162,000 yuan – the final transaction totaled 1.242 million yuan (around $170,000).

In addition to the standout mint green figure, a limited-edition brown Labubu, one of only 15 produced worldwide, was also auctioned off for 820,000 yuan (around $114,106).

Soaring prices reflect the skyrocketing popularity of Labubu, a character from Pop Mart's art toy range. The Chinese cultural and entertainment company's creations have become a global cultural phenomenon. Fans have been seen queuing for new releases from Southeast Asia to Europe and North America, creating a frenzy of demand and turning the figures into highly sought-after collectibles.

Commenting on Labubu's international success, Chen Rui, an associate professor at the Communication University of China, said that its popularity demonstrates how far China has come in terms of original designs in the art toy sector. However, he also urged the public to shop sensibly and avoid spending to the point where it disrupts daily life.