Understanding the Two Faces of Labubu Series 1 Collectibles

Labubu Series 1 is a term that currently dominates search queries in the designer toy world, yet it carries a dual meaning that often confuses new collectors. Depending on whether you are browsing social media for the latest bag accessories or diving into the archives of art toy history, "Series 1" refers to two distinctly different releases from the creator Kasing Lung and Pop Mart.

The most common interpretation today points to the The Monsters Exciting Macaron Vinyl Face Plush Series, launched in late 2023, which fans colloquially call "V1." However, purists and long-term collectors recognize the original The Monsters Mini Figure Series 1 from 2016 as the true technical Series 1. Identifying which one you are looking for is the first step in navigating the complex and high-demand secondary market for these mischievous forest elves.

The Modern Phenomenon: The Monsters Exciting Macaron (V1)

When the average consumer searches for "Labubu Series 1" in the current market, they are almost certainly looking for the plush pendant series officially titled "The Monsters Exciting Macaron." Released in October 2023, this series fundamentally changed the trajectory of the Labubu IP, moving it from a niche art toy to a mainstream fashion accessory.

Aesthetic and Physical Design

The Exciting Macaron series features a unique hybrid design. Unlike previous hard vinyl figures, these are approximately 17cm tall plush dolls with soft, high-quality faux fur and a vinyl (PVC) face. The contrast between the hard, expressive face—featuring Labubu’s signature nine serrated teeth and wide, mischievous eyes—and the huggable body created a sensory appeal that resonated globally.

From a collector’s perspective, the "Experience" of these dolls lies in their tactile quality. The vinyl face has a specific semi-matte finish that feels smooth to the touch, while the limbs are somewhat poseable. Each doll comes with a gold-tone metal ring, allowing it to be clipped onto luxury handbags or backpacks, a trend that sparked a massive surge in demand across Asia and Europe.

The Color Palette and Character Names

The Exciting Macaron series is themed around dessert inspirations, which is why it is often referred to as the "Tasty Macaron" series. There are six regular designs and one highly coveted secret edition:

1. Soymilk: A warm, pale beige that remains one of the most versatile colors for matching with different bag styles.
2. Lychee Berry: A vibrant, candy pink that captures the "kawaii" aesthetic perfectly.
3. Green Grape: A refreshing, muted lime green that stands out in a collection.
4. Sea Salt Coconut: A soft baby blue, often favored for its calming and aesthetic tone.
5. Toffee: A rich, classic caramel brown that mimics traditional teddy bear colors.
6. Sesame Bean: A cool-toned, light greyish-white.

The Grail: Chestnut Cocoa

The "Secret" or "Chase" figure of this series is Chestnut Cocoa. In the blind box world, the probability of pulling this specific character is 1 in 72. It features a deep chocolate brown fur and a distinctive red nose, separating it from the regular Toffee version. In the secondary market, Chestnut Cocoa often commands prices three to five times higher than the regular variants due to its rarity and unique color scheme.

The Historical Root: The Monsters Mini Figure Series 1 (2016)

For those who have been in the designer toy scene for nearly a decade, Labubu Series 1 refers to a much older, more traditional release. Launched in December 2016, the The Monsters Mini Figure Series 1 represents the early collaboration between Kasing Lung and Pop Mart.

Format and Evolution

Unlike the plush versions, the 2016 Series 1 figures are small, hard vinyl collectibles. They were originally released in Gashapon (capsule toy) format rather than the standardized blind boxes we see today. These figures are significantly smaller, standing at roughly 3 inches tall, and feature a "rawer" design aesthetic.

The 2016 series included five core characters from Kasing Lung’s "The Monsters" universe:

• Labubu: The star of the show, but in a more primitive, slender mold.
• Tycoco: The skeleton character and Labubu’s love interest.
• Pippo: The carefree river elf.
• Yaya: A character with a more rounded, simplistic design.
• Monster Boy: A character representing the bridge between humans and the monster world.

Collector Value and Rarity

The 2016 Series 1 is now considered "Discontinued" and "Extremely Rare." While the modern plush Labubu is popular for fashion, the 2016 vinyl figures are sought after as "Grails" for serious art toy historians. They came in two primary variants: opaque cream white and a transparent blue. Finding a sealed set of these original figures is nearly impossible in the current market, with prices for the transparent blue variant often reaching over $1,000 in mint condition.

Materiality and Tactical Experience: Why Series 1 Matters

The obsession with Labubu Series 1 (specifically the Exciting Macaron V1) is not just about the brand; it is about the specific material evolution of the character.

In my experience handling various generations of Pop Mart products, the Exciting Macaron series succeeded because it bridged the gap between a toy and a "life companion." The plush fur is surprisingly resilient to pilling, and the vinyl face allows for easy cleaning, which is essential for a toy meant to be hung outside a bag.

When you compare Series 1 (Macarons) to the subsequent Series 2 ("Have a Seat"), there is a noticeable difference in the "Experience" of the fur. V1 fur is more upright and shaggy, giving it a wilder, more "monster-like" look that many purists prefer over the softer, flatter velvet of V2. Furthermore, the standing position of V1 makes it a better display piece for those who use acrylic cases, as it takes up less horizontal space than the seated V2.

Authenticity Check: How to Identify Real Labubu Series 1

Due to the extreme popularity of the Exciting Macaron Series 1, the market is flooded with counterfeits. For a collector, nothing ruins the experience faster than realizing a purchase is fake. Here are the specific markers of an authentic Series 1 Plush:

The Stitching and Fur Quality

Authentic Labubu plushies use a specific high-density polyester fiber. When you rub the fur, it should feel soft but slightly textured, not "plastic-y" or overly shiny. The stitching around the vinyl face should be seamless. In many fakes, you can see visible glue residue or uneven gaps where the plush fabric meets the PVC face.

The Face and Eyes

The eyes of a genuine Labubu have a depth to them. They are not just painted on; they are inset with a clear, glossy finish that reflects light naturally. The signature nine teeth are sharp and well-defined. On counterfeit versions, the teeth often look blunt or have "bleeding" paint lines.

NFC and QR Code Verification

Pop Mart has implemented sophisticated anti-counterfeit measures. Each box should have a scratch-off sticker with a QR code. When scanned, it should lead to the official Pop Mart verification mini-program. Additionally, many newer batches of Series 1 include NFC chips in the foot or base that can be read by a smartphone to confirm authenticity.

Comparing Series 1 Plush vs. Series 1 Vinyl

If you are a new collector, you might wonder which "Series 1" is worth your investment. The answer depends on your motivation:

The Exciting Macaron is the entry point for most modern fans. It represents the "vibe" of 2024 fashion. The 2016 Series 1 is for the "completionist" who wants to own a piece of the IP's history.

The Cultural Impact of Labubu's First Series

Why did "Series 1" become the catalyst for a global trend? Much of it comes down to the subversion of the "cute" trope. In an industry filled with traditionally pretty characters, Labubu’s slightly menacing smile and sharp teeth offer a "kawaii grotesque" alternative.

By releasing a plush version as the first main "Series 1" of the modern era (the Macaron line), Pop Mart tapped into the "kidult" market—adults who want to express their personality through toys. The fact that it is a "Series 1" gives it a foundational status, making it the "must-have" first piece for any new collection.

Maintenance Tips for Your Labubu Series 1 Plush

Owning a Series 1 Macaron requires a bit more maintenance than a standard vinyl figure. Since these are often hung on bags, they are exposed to the elements.

• Avoid Direct Sunlight: Long-term exposure will fade the vibrant colors of the Lychee Berry and Green Grape variants.
• Dry Cleaning is Best: If the fur gets dirty, use a damp cloth with a tiny amount of mild detergent. Do not submerge the doll in water, as it can damage the internal structure and the vinyl-to-plush bond.
• Brush the Fur: Use a small, soft-bristled brush (like a clean toothbrush or a specialized doll brush) to keep the fur from matting after it gets wet in the rain.

Summary of Labubu Series 1

The term Labubu Series 1 serves as a bridge between the IP's humble beginnings in 2016 and its explosive global fame in 2023. Whether you are hunting for the vintage 2016 "The Monsters" mini figures or the viral 2023 "Exciting Macaron" plushies, understanding the distinction is vital.

The Macaron series remains the gold standard for bag accessories, offering seven unique colors including the rare Chestnut Cocoa. Meanwhile, the 2016 vinyl figures remain a testament to Kasing Lung’s original artistic vision. For any collector, owning a "Series 1" is more than just owning a toy—it is owning the beginning of a cultural movement in the designer toy industry.

FAQ

What is the difference between Labubu V1 and Series 1?

In most casual conversations, they are the same. "V1" stands for Version 1, which refers to the "Exciting Macaron" series. "Series 1" is the more formal name used by Pop Mart and retailers for this first wave of plush pendants.

How many characters are in the Labubu Series 1 Macaron set?

There are 7 characters in total: 6 regular colors (Soymilk, Lychee Berry, Green Grape, Sea Salt Coconut, Toffee, Sesame Bean) and 1 secret (Chestnut Cocoa).

Why is Labubu Series 1 so expensive?

The price is driven by high demand and limited supply. Celebrity endorsements and social media trends have made the "Exciting Macaron" series a status symbol, leading to significant markups in the secondary market.

Is Labubu a boy or a girl?

According to the creator Kasing Lung, Labubu is a girl. She is a mischievous elf from "The Monsters" tribe.

Does the Labubu Series 1 plush come with a box?

Yes, when purchased through official channels, they come in "blind boxes." You do not know which color you have until you open the foil bag inside the box.