SpongeBob Labubu — The Must-Have Art Toy Collaboration of the Year

Few collaborations have captured the imagination of collectors like the SpongeBob Labubu series. Fusing the mischievous charm of The Monsters’ Labubu, created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, with the timeless optimism of SpongeBob SquarePants, this crossover has become one of the most talked-about art-toy releases in recent years.

For toy collectors, art enthusiasts, and nostalgic fans of 2000s animation, SpongeBob Labubu is more than just a figure, it’s a perfect intersection of pop culture and designer creativity. Whether you’re a long-time collector or just starting your journey into the world of blind boxes and vinyl figures, this limited series deserves a place in your display case.

In this blog, we’ll explore the story behind the SpongeBob Labubu collection, what makes it so special, and how you can get your hands on one, especially if you’re in San Antonio, TX, where you can find it locally at Niazi Bodega.

What Is the SpongeBob Labubu Collection?

The SpongeBob Labubu collection is a collaboration between POP MART, one of Asia’s leading collectible brands, and Kasing Lung, the creative mind behind The Monsters series. Labubu, the signature creature from Lung’s whimsical universe is known for its toothy grin, big eyes, and slightly mischievous demeanor.

When Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob SquarePants entered the mix, the result was a brilliant fusion of two worlds: Bikini Bottom’s cheerful absurdity and Labubu’s eerie-cute aesthetic. Each figure in the series reimagines SpongeBob, Patrick, Squidward, and other characters through Labubu’s artistic lens, transforming familiar faces into surreal art pieces.

The result? A collection that feels simultaneously nostalgic and brand-new. Collectors love that every piece captures SpongeBob’s optimism while expressing Kasing Lung’s emotional depth, a rare balance of childhood joy and mature artistry.

POP MART released these figures as blind boxes, meaning each box contains a surprise character, fueling the thrill of discovery that defines collectible culture. From classic SpongeBob poses to dreamy reinterpretations of Gary and Mr. Krabs, each design tells its own story.

If you’re local to San Antonio, you can explore these unique art toys in person at Niazi Bodega, your neighborhood destination for exclusive real labubu in San Antonio.

Why SpongeBob Labubu Has Taken the Collectible World by Storm

The SpongeBob Labubu series has become a worldwide phenomenon. But why exactly has it blown up across collector communities, TikTok feeds, and art-toy expos?

1. Nostalgia Meets Artistry

Everyone knows SpongeBob. For those who grew up watching his underwater adventures, owning a SpongeBob Labubu feels like reclaiming a piece of their childhood, only now reinterpreted through a sophisticated artistic lens.

Kasing Lung’s unique approach injects depth into SpongeBob’s character, turning him from a cartoon icon into a collectible sculpture that appeals to adults and art fans alike.

2. Limited Edition Allure

POP MART’s marketing genius lies in scarcity. Each Labubu figure is produced in limited quantities, making it feel like a treasure hunt. Collectors trade, unbox, and showcase their finds on social platforms, driving viral attention and resale values that can easily double or triple original retail prices.

3. Viral Social Media Buzz

On @niazi_bodega Instagram and @niazibodega TikTok, fans can see real-time unboxings, restock alerts, and close-up shots of the latest SpongeBob Labubu arrivals. The tactile appeal of vinyl, the element of mystery in blind boxes, and the expressive detail of each design make them perfect for short-form video content, a huge reason for their viral success.

4. Crossover Culture

Designer toys are now bridging the gap between streetwear, animation, and fine art. Collectors who once only bought sneakers or apparel are now displaying art toys next to their Jordans or Bearbricks. The SpongeBob Labubu collection fits seamlessly into this lifestyle, making it not just a toy but a statement piece for culture enthusiasts.

With the blend of nostalgia, scarcity, and design, it’s no surprise that the SpongeBob Labubu has become a centerpiece in global collectible culture, and a must-have item for fans visiting Niazi Bodega.

How to Get Your Hands on SpongeBob Labubu Figures

If you’re ready to start your collection, timing and sourcing are key. These figures sell out quickly, especially with POP MART drops that happen unpredictably. Here’s how to make sure you don’t miss your chance.

1. Shop Local and Stay Updated

At Niazi Bodega, located at 5138 UTSA Boulevard Suite 108, San Antonio, TX 78249, you’ll find curated releases and exclusive collectibles like SpongeBob Labubu figures. The store often updates its social channels with arrival announcements, so make sure to follow @niazi_bodega on Instagram and @niazibodega on TikTok to stay ahead of drop dates.

2. Verify Authenticity

Due to their popularity, counterfeit versions sometimes circulate online. Look for official POP MART holographic seals, serial codes, and precise sculpting details. Buying from trusted sources such as Niazi Bodega ensures you’re getting authentic, high-quality products directly from verified distributors.

3. Join Collector Communities

Online groups on Discord, Facebook, and Reddit can alert you to restocks and swaps. Engaging in these spaces not only expands your knowledge but helps you connect with like-minded collectors.

4. Visit the Store in Person

The in-store experience can’t be replicated online. You’ll be able to feel the weight of each box, browse related collectibles, and talk with staff who truly understand the art-toy scene. Before visiting, check the Niazi Bodega Google Business Profile for hours, directions, and current availability.

Collecting isn’t just about ownership, it’s about connection. At shops like Niazi Bodega, you’re not just buying toys; you’re joining a culture of creativity, nostalgia, and design appreciation.

Collecting Labubu and SpongeBob: Why It’s More Than Just a Toy

At its heart, the SpongeBob Labubu phenomenon reflects a broader movement in art and design, one that values storytelling, craftsmanship, and individuality.

The Artistic Roots of Labubu

Kasing Lung created Labubu as a mischievous spirit who represents childhood imagination and vulnerability. Each Labubu character embodies emotion, joy, sadness, mischief, or curiosity — expressed through its distinct facial features. The design philosophy is about imperfection and emotion rather than commercial polish.

When that artistry meets SpongeBob’s cheerful resilience, the result is a collectible that speaks to both the child and the artist within us. Each figure isn’t just a decoration; it’s a reminder that creativity has no boundaries.

A Cultural Bridge

Art toys like SpongeBob Labubu serve as bridges between cultures, from Hong Kong’s designer-toy movement to America’s cartoon nostalgia. They connect generations and geographies, showing how universal creativity truly is.

In San Antonio, Niazi Bodega has become part of this global movement by curating pieces that inspire conversation. Whether you’re shopping for the latest sneakers or rare POP MART figures, you’ll find that same creative pulse running through every corner of the store.

The Collector’s Mindset

Serious collectors see each piece as part of a visual diary. Every SpongeBob Labubu acquired tells a story, of the hunt, the excitement, the friendships formed through trades, and the satisfaction of completing a set. Collecting teaches patience, appreciation, and the joy of discovery.

For newcomers, starting small with a blind box or two can open the door to an entire community of enthusiasts who celebrate both art and fun. And when you want to see these designs up close, visiting Niazi Bodega is the perfect next step.

FAQs About SpongeBob Labubu

1. What is the SpongeBob Labubu toy?

It’s a limited-edition designer figure series created by POP MART in collaboration with artist Kasing Lung. Each toy reimagines beloved SpongeBob characters through Labubu’s surreal, expressive design style.

2. Where can I buy SpongeBob Labubu in the U.S.?

These collectibles are available through select POP MART retailers and specialty shops like Niazi Bodega in San Antonio, TX. You can also check their Google Business Profile for updated hours and inventory.

3. Why is SpongeBob Labubu so popular?

Because it fuses nostalgia with modern artistry. Fans love seeing SpongeBob’s cheerful spirit filtered through Labubu’s unique style, creating figures that feel both familiar and avant-garde.

4. How much does a SpongeBob Labubu figure cost?

Prices typically range from $15 to $100 USD, depending on rarity. Special editions and full sets can resell for significantly higher amounts on secondary markets.

5. Are SpongeBob Labubu toys limited edition?

Yes. Each release run is limited, increasing both demand and collector value. Once a series sells out, it’s rarely restocked, another reason collectors act fast when new drops hit Niazi Bodega or POP MART’s official store.

Final Thoughts

The SpongeBob Labubu collection isn’t just a pop-culture fad, it’s a celebration of creativity, craftsmanship, and nostalgia. Each piece carries the spirit of two creative worlds colliding: the imaginative storytelling of SpongeBob SquarePants and the whimsical artistry of Kasing Lung.

For collectors in San Antonio or those visiting the area, discovering these figures at Niazi Bodega is an experience in itself. You’ll not only find exclusive drops and authentic POP MART releases but also connect with a community that values the art behind every collectible.

Follow @niazi_bodega on Instagram and @niazibodega on TikTok for restock alerts, sneak peeks, and unboxing videos. And before heading over, don’t forget to check the Google Business Profile for store hours and directions.

Whether you’re chasing your first blind box or adding the final piece to your SpongeBob Labubu collection, remember: every toy has a story, and your next one might be waiting at Niazi Bodega.