While scrolling through TikTok or Instagram reels, you might’ve come across a peculiar, mischievous-looking creature that has captured the hearts of millions, going beyond borders and becoming a global sensation.
With wide, curious eyes, pointed ears, and a grin revealing nine sharp teeth, these “ugly-cute” figures are more than just toys. They have become a cultural phenomenon. These adorable plush toys are called Labubu.
But what exactly are Labubu dolls? Where did these endearing, slightly creepy monster elves come from, and why are they suddenly everywhere?
Let’s get into the fascinating story of Labubu, a collectible toy that turned into a global fashion trend, and the secrets behind its undeniable charm and popularity.
What are Labubu Dolls? Origin and Appearance:
Born from the creative imagination of Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung in 2015, Labubu dolls are instantly recognizable plush figures that are part of “The Monsters” series. These appealing creations stand out with their mischievous grins, often showing a row of sharp teeth, and different elf-like features.
Labubu is more than just toys, they’re a unique blend of cute and quirky elements. They symbolize a playful spirit that has charmed collectors worldwide.
These plush toys are inspired by Nordic fairy tales; that’s how they got their unique jagged-tooth features. This inspiration shaped them into the distinct-looking dolls that have been popping up on everyone’s social media lately.
These dolls are now seen clipped onto designer bags or carried as a statement piece, turning them into a fashion trend. But how did this creature come into sight, and from where did the popularity start?
In 2024, K-pop star Lisa, with nearly 106 million followers on Instagram, shared a photo with this doll. This helped in sparking the surge in their global popularity.
Evolution of the Labubu Dolls:
➤ Collectible Toy:
The Labubu’s fame started rising among the masses in 2019 when Kasing Lung partnered with Pop Mart, a Chinese toy store. They helped popularise the character with their innovative “blind box” sales model.
Blind Box collection is where the buyer didn’t know which version of the doll they would get until they opened it.
This element of surprise, similar to a delightful lottery, led to an addictive collecting frenzy, driving repeat purchases and turning each new release into an instant sell-out phenomenon.
➤ Global Fashion Trend:
What started as a quirky collectible has quickly gone beyond its toy origins. This unique change into high fashion is confirmed by its surprising yet successful collaborations with luxury powerhouses like Coach, Miu Miu, and Luis Vuitton.
This has transformed these mischievous little monsters from niche toys into unexpected symbols of sharp style and playful luxury.
➤ Celebrity Endorsement:
Labubu has become a fashionable accessory for a glittering list of global celebrities. From the trendsetting BLACKPINK’s Lisa, with her personal collection has boosted the widespread fan obsession, to music and fashion icon Rihanna, and pop superstar Dua Lipa.
Even football legend David Beckham has showcased a Labubu gift from his daughter, and Kim Kardashian has been seen with them.
➤ Inside Labubu’s Design and Variations:
At the heart of the Labubu wonder lies its unique and attractive design. This design includes a round, furry body, wide, expressive eyes, pointed ears, and a signature mischievous smile revealing precisely nine sharp teeth.
While Labubu herself is the most iconic, she is part of a larger, enchanting “The Monsters” tribe created by artist Kasing Lung, inspired by Nordic folklore.
This quirky family includes beloved variants, such as the pink-furred Mokoko with her heart-shaped nose, the skeletal yet gentle Tycoco, the quiet and curious Spooky, the imaginative Pato, and the authoritative Zimomo.
Each of these distinct varieties is adding to the rich tapestry of this collectible universe.
➤ Economic Significance:
The Labubu Dolls have become a financial powerhouse, boosting toy giant Pop Mart to extraordinary heights. The base model is priced at $30 in the US.
Inside the market supremacy, Labubu and its related “The Monsters” series alone contributed a shocking 23.3% of Pop Mart’s total revenue in 2024. This was the year when the company’s overall revenue more than doubled to US$1.8 billion.
➤ Challenges and Controversies of Labubu Dolls:
The tense global demand for Labubu has triggered unforeseen consequences, most notably in the UK. The Pop Mart has temporarily halted in-store sales due to serious safety concerns stemming from overwhelming crowds, long queues, and even reported altercations.
This frenzy has, in turn, led to a growing market for unauthorized replicas, affectionately called “Lafufu” dolls. Which, despite their counterfeit nature, have paradoxically developed their own devoted following among collectors seeking a more accessible entry into the “ugly-cute” occurrence.
Conclusion:
From quirky art project to global fashion icon, the journey of Labubu dolls has been nothing short of extraordinary.
These “ugly-cute” creatures, born from Nordic folklore and Kasing Lung’s imagination, have exceeded their origins as collectible toys to become a testament to the power of unique design, strategic collaborations, and viral celebrity endorsement.
Despite the challenges of managing overwhelming demand and combating counterfeits, Labubu’s enduring charm and important economic impact solidify its place as a passing trend and a fascinating cultural phenomenon that continues to capture hearts worldwide.
FAQ:
1. What are Labubu dolls?
Labubu dolls are fluffy, gremlin-like creatures designed by artist Kasing Lung and produced by Pop Mart in blind boxes.
2. How do you know if a Labubu is real or fake?
To distinguish a real Labubu from a fake, check for specific details like the number of teeth (authentic ones have nine), the PopMart logo on the feet (printed on the correct foot), the quality of the stitching and paint, and the presence of a QR code on the tag that leads to PopMart’s verification page.
3. Why is Labubu expensive?
Labubu’s high price is driven by a combination of factors, including rarity, high demand, and limited production, especially for limited editions and seasonal releases. The popularity of Labubu has also been boosted by celebrity endorsements, such as BLACKPINK’s Lisa, further fueling demand and speculation.
