Labubu Craze Turns Criminal: Thieves Target Viral Dolls in LA Heist

Labubu fever has reached such heights that thieves in Los Angeles have targeted the viral collectible in a bold overnight burglary, escaping with boxes of the highly sought-after plush dolls.

The break-in happened at One Stop Sales, a resale shop known for carrying hard-to-find collectibles. But unlike typical robberies where thieves go for cash or high-end electronics, this crew made a beeline for one thing: Labubu.

The rise of the viral monster doll

Labubu is a quirky, fluffy monster doll designed by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung in collaboration with Chinese retailer Pop Mart. Originally a niche art toy, it has exploded in popularity this year, thanks in large part to social media trends and celebrity endorsements.

The doll has been spotted on the bags of stars such as Rihanna, BLACKPINK's Lisa, and Dua Lipa, turning it into both a collectible and a fashion accessory. Limited editions can sell out instantly and command steep prices on the resale market, with some listed for as much as $500.

The crime took place in the early hours of Wednesday morning. According to store co-owner Joanna Avendano, the suspects smashed through the front door to gain entry, quickly targeting the shelves where Labubu dolls were kept.

Security footage from the store shows masked individuals grabbing armfuls of merchandise and tearing through displays.

"There was a lot taken, maybe like around $30,000 or more of inventory," Avendano told ABC News Local 7. "We worked so hard to get to this point, and for them to just come in and, like nothing, take it all away, it's really bad."

Security footage from the store shows masked individuals grabbing armfuls of merchandise and tearing through displays. The video was later posted to One Stop Sales's Instagram with the caption:

"Today we got robbed, and they took all of our inventory, trashed our store, we are still in shock, if you guys can share this post please and help us find these thief’s!"

Avendano also told reporters she believes the burglary was planned. The night before, she had noticed a suspicious truck parked near the store and now suspects it may have been used by the thieves.

Understanding the Psychology Behind Collectible Craze

It's interesting to note the psychological factors that fuel the craze for collectibles like Labubu. The desire to collect can be linked to our innate need for control and possession, as well as the thrill of the hunt, both of which have deep evolutionary roots. Research by Russell Belk suggests that collecting is a way for individuals to express their identities and connect with others who share similar interests.

The footage was shared on One Stop Sales's Instagram, with the caption:

Investigation underway

The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department is investigating. In a statement to NBC News, the department confirmed, "Several boxes of Labubu dolls were stolen, valued at approximately seven thousand dollars."

The valuation figure differs from Avendano’s estimate, suggesting that either some of the stolen stock was not Labubu or that resale values could make the loss significantly higher.

With Labubu dolls in high demand and limited supply, the black market appeal is clear. Collectors and resellers often compete fiercely for rare editions, and online listings show prices far above retail.

For One Stop Sales, the crime is more than just a financial setback. It is also a blow to the small business’s reputation and security. "We are still in shock," Avendano said, adding that the store will now need to invest in additional security measures.

The case highlights a growing trend where thieves target not just traditional valuables, but also trending pop culture collectibles.

This incident also highlights the influence of scarcity and exclusivity on perceived value. A phenomenon well-documented in psychology, this is often referred to as the 'scarcity principle.' The study by Stephen Worchel, Jerry Lee and Akanbi Adewole suggests that limited availability can increase an item's desirability, leading people to go to extreme lengths to obtain it.

The Role of Social Media in Fueling Collectible Trends

The role of social media in amplifying the 'fear of missing out' (FOMO) can't be understated. In the context of collectibles, FOMO can drive individuals to acquire items for fear of missing out on a trend. A study by Andrew Przybylski et al., found a strong correlation between FOMO and social media engagement, suggesting that social platforms play a significant role in fueling collectible trends.

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

In conclusion, the Labubu craze and the associated criminal activity can be understood through the lens of psychological principles such as the need for control, the scarcity principle, and the influence of FOMO driven by social media. By better understanding these underlying psychological factors, we can develop strategies to mitigate negative outcomes and harness these principles for positive social impact. (Belk, R. Collecting in a consumer society, 1995; Worchel, S., Lee, J., & Adewole, A. Psychological Scarcity and Perceived Value, 1996; Przybylski, A. et al., Motivational, Emotional, and Behavioral Correlates of Fear of Missing Out, 2013).