In today’s rapidly changing consumer culture, few items have captured people’s attention quite like collectible figures have. These colorful characters, often tucked inside random blind boxes, excite buyers with a chance of finding a limited-edition figure, fueling an insatiable desire to collect more. As interest in these collectibles grows, what was once a niche hobby of collecting has now become a mainstream obsession. One of the most recognizable figures is Labubu, an uncanny yet cute monster with rabbit-like ears designed by Hong Kong illustrator Kasing Lung, which brought $1.8 billion in global revenue in 2024. The appeal also lies in its rarity, with limited editions driving buying frenzies, amplified by social media and the desire to acquire the rarest pieces. Even with prices well over ￦1 million, these figures continue to sell out instantly, turning a lighthearted hobby into a frantic hunt, with stores suspending offline sales as people brawl to get in line first. In this way, the joy of collecting is fading and giving way to what consumerism thrives on best — urgency.
What makes this trend concerning is how quickly people jump on the bandwagon, continuously spending on collectibles. They no longer collect to admire the figures, but because they feel compelled to own what others have, driven by unboxing videos and shelves lined with figures on social media. This mindset intensifies further as limited editions vanish as soon as they are released, and resold collectibles are either overpriced or counterfeits. Ultimately, many end up spending far more time and money than intended, chasing after items that could lose value once the trend fades. It might feel like a harmless indulgence at first, but overindulgence can quickly lead to financial strain. As appealing as these collectibles are, it is worth asking whether the excitement is worth the risk of potentially falling into a cycle of excessive spending.
Nevertheless, collecting figures can be a heartwarming hobby when enjoyed in moderation. Buying one or two pieces occasionally is harmless and can bring genuine joy, allowing collectors to truly appreciate the artistry and the sense of kinship it evokes. From the moment of purchasing and unboxing a beautifully designed figure to carrying it around, collectible figures are more than just a simple toy to be bought and discarded — they become the finder’s very own personal treasure. Even so, figures are not a need but a want that brings a small burst of color into daily life, and overspending will only lead to regret once the initial excitement fades. In the end, it does not matter how many limited-edition collectibles one owns, but how deeply these figures resonate with one’s inner self. At its best, the pastime of collecting can remain a personal sanctuary of curiosity and joy, and most importantly, a carefree escape from the stresses of life.