Labubu vs The Monsters: Which Series Should You Start With?

If you’ve been scrolling through collector communities lately, you’ve almost certainly seen two names come up again and again: Labubu and The Monsters. Both are created by the legendary artist Kasing Lung and distributed under Pop Mart, but they offer very different collecting experiences.

What is Labubu?

Labubu is a mischievous little creature with pointy ears, a wide grin, and an instantly recognisable silhouette. The character was born from Kasing Lung’s “The Monsters” picture book series and has since evolved into one of the most sought-after blind box lines in the world.

What is The Monsters Series?

The Monsters is a broader universe featuring characters like Zimomo, Tycoco, and Banban alongside Labubu. Each release introduces new characters and seasonal themed outfits, making the complete collection a true collector’s challenge.

Our Verdict

If you’re a first-time collector, start with a single Labubu box from a current series. The price point is accessible, the design is iconic, and the community around it is incredibly welcoming. If you’re ready to dive deeper, exploring The Monsters universe will keep you busy — and excited — for years.

Labubu vs The Monsters in Southeast Asia: Where to Find Each Series

The availability of Labubu and The Monsters series varies significantly across SEA markets. Here is the country-by-country breakdown to help you hunt smarter.

SEA Availability by Country

• Singapore: Both Labubu and The Monsters full series are stocked at all four POP MART locations. Singapore receives the widest selection and earliest drops in the region. Robo Shops at Changi Airport T3 carry rotating single-series stock between restocks.
• Malaysia: POP MART Malaysia’s official Shopee store carries most The Monsters series within 2 weeks of Singapore launch. Physical retail at Pavilion KL has slightly narrower selection — call ahead before travelling.
• Thailand: POP MART Thailand at Siam Paragon and CentralWorld stocks The Monsters consistently. Labubu Thai-exclusive collab editions (most famously the Thai Chocolate series) are a must-buy in Bangkok before they hit secondary markets at 3x retail.
• Philippines: Toy Kingdom and Bratpack outlets carry The Monsters series. Labubu secret figures are extremely rare in the Philippines retail channel — most collectors source them from Singapore via Carousell PH trusted sellers.
• Indonesia: POP MART’s Tokopedia Mall official store is the most reliable channel. Physical retail is limited to select Grand Indonesia counters in Jakarta. Shipping from Singapore adds SGD 8–15 but is often worth it for wider selection.

Which Series Has Better SEA Secondary Market Value?

Across SEA secondary platforms — Carousell SG, Shopee Mall, and Facebook collector groups — Labubu consistently commands higher resale premiums (2x–8x retail for secret figures) versus The Monsters non-Labubu characters (1.2x–3x retail). If resale value matters to your collecting strategy, prioritise Labubu secret figures from official SG retail whenever possible.