A unique character named Labubu has begun to capture the hearts of collectors everywhere since early 2023. Labubu quickly gained popularity, especially thanks to its partnership with Pop Mart, which is known for its exciting blind box collectibles.
With the collectors sharing their blind box unboxing excitement, it has gained more appeal due to its appearance. As Labubu’s following grew, so did the conversations about its appearance. While some people had mixed reactions, many others found Labubu irresistibly cute and charming.
What is a Labubu?
Labubu was created in 2015 by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung as part of “The Monsters” series, which was inspired by Nordic fairy tales. According to Pop Mart, Labubu is an elf character from “The Story of Puca” and is known for its pointy ears, sharp teeth, playful smile, and kind heart. This character is similar to the Púca from Irish mythology, a shape-shifting trickster.
How did Labubu become so popular?
Labubu first made its debut in storybooks. Later on, it became a collectible toy through a partnership with Pop Mart, a company known for its blind box toys. Through this collaboration, its popularity skyrocketed, reaching a wider audience like the collectors. The appeal of Labubu isn’t limited to just younger audiences; it extends across various generations. For younger fans, the character resonates through its whimsical design and its stories.
Collectors from Gen Z are particularly drawn to the thrill of unboxing. Millennials are not excluded from this and appreciate Labubu for its nostalgic qualities. It reminds them of childhood toys and their desire for unique items during their youth. Adults are increasingly attracted to Labubu as a cute and comforting desk companion, bringing a touch of whimsy to their daily lives. Families also love Labubu, as parents introduce their children to the character’s stories and adventures.
It has personality
Labubu may look mischievous, but the character is actually kind-hearted. Despite its good nature, Labubu often gets into trouble, like accidentally knocking things over without meaning to cause harm. In an interview with HYPEBEAST, Labubu’s creator, Kasing Lung, shared how the character has grown with him over the years. Initially, he saw Labubu as mischievous and quirky, but now he views the character as calmer and more friendly.
It is unique and exclusive
Labubu itself is a single character, but it appears in many different versions and designs. These variations often feature different outfits, expressions, or themes, keeping things fresh and exciting for fans. It is also released in limited editions and blind box formats, increasing fans’ desire for the items. This adds excitement as they eagerly anticipate which version of Labubu they will receive. Although Labubu is part of “The Monsters” series, it stands out as one of the most iconic and recognizable figures. The series also features other notable characters such as Zimomo, Yaya, Tycoco, and Spooky.
Love from celebrities
While Labubu has long been a favorite among collectors, it has recently gained even more attention due to its rising popularity among celebrities. Celebrities like Lisa from Blackpink and well-known Thai actors such as Mario Maurer and Mew have shown their fondness for the character. As these stars show love towards Labubu, their fans are quickly following suit, further boosting the character’s appeal and joining the craze.
Not just a toy, but a fashion statement
Labubu also serves as a way for fans to express themselves. Many collectors customize their Labubus, turning them into unique pieces that reflect their personal style. In addition to being a toy, Labubu is often featured as a fashion accessory. These characters can be found as bag charms, phone cases, and clothing, adding a playful touch to outfits. On TikTok, many fans are showing off their Labubus hanging from their bags. This generates curiosity about the character’s popularity. In addition, this encourages others to learn more about Labubu and join the craze, especially since it matches their style.
Conclusions
Labubu’s popularity stems from its unique design and playful personality, created by artist Kasing Lung. The character appeals to both children and adults. The thrill of unboxing blind boxes and the availability of limited editions keep collectors engaged, especially among Gen Z and Millennials.
Labubu’s origins in Nordic fairy tales and resemblance to mythological figures add cultural depth, while celebrity endorsements enhance its visibility. It has evolved into a fashion statement, allowing fans to express their individuality through customizations and various merchandise. Overall, Labubu represents nostalgia, creativity, and a sense of community in today’s pop culture.
