THE MONSTERS x SpongeBob Series Overview
Released April 30, 2021, the SpongeBob Series marks Labubu's first major IP collaboration with Nickelodeon's beloved SpongeBob SquarePants. This groundbreaking crossover pairs all six THE MONSTERS characters with Bikini Bottom residents, creating 12 unique hybrid figures that merge two iconic universes.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Release Date | April 30, 2021 |
| Format | Blind Box |
| Total Figures | 12 + 1 Hidden |
| Original Price | ~$10.99/box, $130/case |
| Current Value (2025) | $300 for complete set |
| Hidden Figure | The Pirate (Patchy x Labubu) |
| Hidden Pull Rate | 1:144 (~0.69%) |
| Hidden Value | ~$100 |
All 12 Crossover Figures + Hidden
Each figure fuses a SpongeBob character with a THE MONSTERS character:
| # | Figure | Character Fusion |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Champion Chef | SpongeBob x Labubu - Cooking theme |
| 2 | Surfing | SpongeBob x Labubu - Beach surfing |
| 3 | Nose Flute | SpongeBob x Labubu - Musical moment |
| 4 | Before Comedy | SpongeBob x Labubu - Stand-up comedy |
| 5 | The Pumpkin | SpongeBob x Labubu - Halloween theme |
| 6 | Sweet Victory | SpongeBob x Labubu - Iconic episode reference |
| 7 | Jellyfish Catcher | SpongeBob x Labubu - With jellyfish net |
| 8 | Patrick x Yaya | Patrick Star paired with Yaya |
| 9 | Squidward x Spooky | Squidward paired with Spooky |
| 10 | Sandy x Pato | Sandy Cheeks paired with Pato |
| 11 | Plankton x Tycoco | Plankton paired with Tycoco |
| 12 | Mr. Krabs x Zimomo | Mr. Krabs paired with Zimomo (with tail) |
| HIDDEN | The Pirate | Patchy the Pirate x Labubu |
Design Characteristics
Materials & Quality:
- PVC with vibrant colors and textured details
- Size: 6-9 cm (standard scale)
- Height: 3.1 inches (as listed by POP MART)
Visual Elements:
- Hybrid aesthetics faithful to both SpongeBob's cartoon style and Labubu's sculptural identity
- Miniature props included (jellyfish nets, chef hats, surfboards)
- Accurate SpongeBob character expressions
- Full THE MONSTERS cast integration (including Zimomo with tail)
Why This Collaboration Matters
The SpongeBob Series achieved remarkable crossover appeal:
1. First Major IP Collaboration Paved the way for future crossovers like Harry Potter, Sanrio, and Coca-Cola.
2. Full Cast Pairing All six THE MONSTERS characters (Labubu, Zimomo, Tycoco, Spooky, Yaya, Pato) matched with SpongeBob universe characters.
3. Mainstream Reach Attracted non-traditional collectors via SpongeBob's global fanbase spanning multiple generations.
4. Design Innovation Successfully merged two distinct visual languages - cartoon and designer toy aesthetics.
Current Market Analysis (2025)
| Item | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Single Figure | $20-30 |
| Complete Standard Set (12) | $200-250 |
| Complete Set with The Pirate | $300 |
| The Pirate Hidden Only | ~$100 |
Investment Performance:
- Modest appreciation (2-3x from original) due to ongoing retail availability
- Hidden remains very accessible compared to other series
- Strong crossover appeal to both Labubu and SpongeBob collectors
- Complete sets readily available under $300
Authentication Tips
Verify authentic SpongeBob Series pieces:
Check For:
- Paint quality and SpongeBob character accuracy
- Nuanced SpongeBob expressions and details
- POP MART holographic sticker on packaging
- Correct color vibrancy matching cartoon palette
Counterfeits Often Have:
- Missed nuanced SpongeBob expressions
- Dull or incorrect colors
- Poor paint application
- Missing accessory details
Collecting Strategy
Building a Complete Set:
- Case Purchase - Guarantees all 12 standard figures
- Favorite Character Focus - Start with SpongeBob or Patrick fusions
- Trading Communities - Active exchanges in cartoon collector groups
- The Pirate Hunt - Budget $100 separately for the hidden
Display Ideas:
- Create Bikini Bottom diorama with underwater backdrop
- Arrange by SpongeBob character (all Labubu-SpongeBob fusions together)
- Position to suggest character interactions and scenes
- Mix with SpongeBob memorabilia for comprehensive theme
Perfect For
- SpongeBob SquarePants enthusiasts seeking designer toy crossovers
- Cartoon and animation collectors documenting IP collaborations
- Fans who grew up with SpongeBob wanting nostalgic collectibles
- Crossover collectors appreciating character fusion design
- Gift-givers celebrating SpongeBob fandom
- Those seeking affordable complete collaboration sets
Where to Buy
Retail (Limited Availability):
- POP MART stores (check stock)
- POP MART app for restocks
Secondary Market:
- StockX (authenticated)
- eBay (verify seller ratings)
- Mercari (Japan/US)
- Facebook collector groups
Legacy & Impact
The SpongeBob Series demonstrated:
- IP Collaboration Viability: Proved licensed crossovers could succeed in designer toy market
- Mainstream Reach: Attracted non-traditional collectors via SpongeBob's fanbase
- Design Adaptation: Successfully merged two distinct visual languages
- Character Pairing Creativity: Patrick x Yaya and Squidward x Spooky became standout hits
This series became the blueprint for future THE MONSTERS IP collaborations.
Standout Pairings
Patrick x Yaya - The pink starfish paired with the gentle Yaya created immediate fan favorite status. Both characters share a sweet, lovable personality.
Squidward x Spooky - The grumpy Squidward matched perfectly with the ghost-like Spooky, creating humorous visual contrast.
Mr. Krabs x Zimomo - The money-loving crustacean paired with the leader Zimomo (complete with his signature tail) makes for an authoritative combination.
Conclusion
THE MONSTERS x SpongeBob Series stands as a fun, accessible landmark collaboration in Labubu's history. Its playful fusion of universes, full character pairings, and broad availability make it a delightful addition for crossover enthusiasts and casual collectors alike.
At $300 for a complete set in 2025, it represents excellent value with sustained accessibility. The Pirate hidden at ~$100 remains one of the most affordable hidden variants. For those who love SpongeBob SquarePants, THE MONSTERS, or creative character mashups, this series delivers nostalgic joy with lasting collectible appeal.
