Plush Toys That Cure Stress? Meet Gabriel, the LA Medical Technician Who Spent Over $1,000 on a Labubu Collection!
Ever thought plush toys could be your stress relief? Gabriel Tupanjanin, a medical technician from Los Angeles, known among colleagues as the “Labubu Man,” has proven it’s possible — and in the wildest way!
How It All Started Gabriel first noticed cute figurines at work among his colleagues. At first, he didn’t get why people were so obsessed with them. But when he opened his first Labubu figure, he realized why they’re so popular. That moment was like discovering a new world.
A Dream Collection — or a Wallet Nightmare? So far, Gabriel has spent over 1,000 pounds, about $1,200, on this collection. He owns nearly 50 pieces, including rare items and complete series. He invested the most in three sets from the “Big Into Energy” collection, even pre-ordering from resellers.
Why? Gabriel says these toys are like his babies. When he gets a moment, he sits down and looks at them, reminding himself not to take life too seriously. They help him heal his inner child and calm work stress.
Internet Sensation with 40,000 Followers He didn’t stop at collecting. He launched TikTok and YouTube channels called “Unboxrn,” where he posts sketches, unboxings, and commentary about Labubu toys. His audience tops 40,000! Despite negative comments, Gabriel doesn’t care — for him, these toys are a source of happiness and comfort.
Rules of the Game — How Not to Go Overboard? His husband supports him but sometimes stops him from going overboard with buying. So Gabriel set a rule: if a toy is released, he waits three months before buying it. If he still wants it, he buys it.
Expanding the Collection — But Not Just Labubu Besides Labubu, Gabriel started collecting other Pop Mart series like Hacipupu, Skull Panda, and Sweetbean Crybabies.
In the End — It’s Not Just a Collection, It’s Happiness and Art For Gabriel, these toys aren’t just plush or figurines. They’re art pieces, sources of joy, comfort, and connection. And, as he says, they’re priceless.
Thought plush toys were just for kids? Gabriel will prove you wrong! Got a weird hobby that saves you from stress? Or know someone who collects something even crazier? Share in the comments — let’s laugh and marvel together at this wild world of collecting!
Slug: plush-toy-obsession-los-angeles
