Welcome to the ultimate guide for one of the most sought-after collections from POP MART: The Monsters "Let's Checkmate" Series by Kasing Lung. This series transforms the mischievous and beloved character Labubu and her friends into a whimsical set of chess pieces, blending playful design with the strategic elegance of the ancient game. Whether you're a seasoned collector or new to the world of art toys, this guide provides all the details you need on the figures, prices, and the elusive secret chase items.
The Designer and The Concept
The "Let's Checkmate" series is another brilliant creation from Hong Kong-based artist Kasing Lung, the mind behind "The Monsters" universe. Labubu, the central character, is known for her pointed ears, a wide, toothy grin, and a personality that is both mischievous and endearingly kind. This collection, themed around the game of chess, reimagines Labubu and friends as classic pieces like the King, Queen, and Knight, all rendered in Kasing Lung's signature style.
Release Information
The POP MART Labubu "Let's Checkmate" series was primarily launched around February 6-7, 2025, strategically positioning it as a major release for Valentine's Day. However, some retail and database listings show varying release dates for specific figures, with some dates noted as early as June 18, 2024, or December 25, 2023, and others as late as May 18, 2025. The collection was met with immense popularity, with some items reportedly selling out within an hour of their release.
Full Collection Details
The "Let's Checkmate" series is extensive, featuring several types of collectibles for every kind of fan.
The Monsters Let's Checkmate Series - Vinyl Plush Doll (King)
The centerpiece of the collection is the large Vinyl Plush Doll, portraying Labubu as the King.
- Design: This impressive figure stands approximately 37-38 cm (14.57 inches) tall. It features Labubu with brown fur, dressed in a regal red king's cape with white frills and wearing a slightly lopsided red and gold crown. A standout feature is its large, shiftable blue eyes, allowing for expressive poses. In its hands, this Labubu King holds a red ring box with the name "Labubu" elegantly written in cursive gold on top.
- Materials: The doll is crafted from a combination of PVC, ABS, plush polyester, and PP particle filling.
- Retail Price: The Market price upon release was $115 USD.
The Monsters Let's Checkmate Series - Vinyl Plush Hanging Card (Queen)
A smaller, yet equally charming, collectible that can be used as a hanging charm or a decorative piece.
- Design: This version of Labubu stands approximately 17-18 cm (about 6.7 to 7.1 inches) tall. It features Labubu with soft, pale-yellow fur, a delicate pink and gold crown, and holding a pink plush heart that is adorned with a blue bow. Some descriptions also mention a large rainbow bow. It’s designed to be a versatile piece, perfect for decorating a desk or hanging from a bag.
- Materials: The shell is made of 59% PVC and 41% polyester, with a 100% polyester stuffing. It comes packaged in a themed gift box that includes a QR code for verifying authenticity.
- Retail Price: The Market price upon release was $40 USD.
The Monsters Let's Checkmate Series - Pendant Blind Box
For those who love surprises, the Pendant Blind Box series offers a chance to collect miniature versions of the chess-themed Monsters.
- Concept: Each blind box contains one randomly selected pendant. The figures are designed as a combination of a metal and braided bag strap, making them functional accessories.
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Regular Figures: There are six standard designs to collect. The probability of pulling any specific regular figure is 1 in 6. The lineup includes:
- King
- Queen
- Knight
- Bishop
- Rook
- Pawn
- Secret Chase Figure: The rare, secret figure in this series is named "Bond."
The Monsters Let's Checkmate Series - Fridge Magnet Blind Box
Expand your collection to your kitchen or any magnetic surface with this blind box series.
- Design: This series features 8 cm high magnets of The Monsters characters set against a checkered background, perfectly matching the chess theme.
- Collection Size: There are seven different magnets to collect in total, which includes one secret design.
