Labubu monster dolls are ugly and adorable
New monster dolls are taking over the internet. Influencers shell out as much as $85 for bigger Labubu dolls.
Labubu dolls, created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, have become a popular collectible trend.The dolls’ popularity is driven by their unique designs, scarcity, and “blind box” packaging which adds an element of surprise.Pop Mart stores, both online and in-store, are the primary retailer for Labubu dolls. There are 3 locations in Michigan.
Fuzzy and adorably or oddly creepy, a new trend has emerged from social media: Labubu dolls.
Labubu dolls, sharp-toothed monster-like toys, have recently seen a surge in popularity through Tik Tok and inside malls where Pop Mart stations sell them.
Celebrities like Lizzo, Rihanna and Dua Lipa have been seen sporting Labubus as people collect them, and attach them to their bags with chains.
The Pop Mart website shows most of the different dolls as out of stock. When stores and “Robo Shop” vending machines receive merchandise, it often leads to lines as people wait for a chance to purchase them.
Some of the dolls on the Pop Mart website list for as much as $179. Others are priced at about $22. Products also include key chains, ear muffs, earrings and other items.
Here’s more on why Labubu dolls are so popular, and where to purchase one in Michigan:
What is a Labubu doll?
Labubus are small, fluffy dolls, with a large smiles, sharp teeth and large oval eyes. They come in various colors and styles and even a set of pajamas, however fans can purchase other clothing to dress them, according to USA TODAY.
The Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung designed the Labubu dolls and was inspired by Nordic mythology, according to his online profile.
In 2015, Lung’s first picture book, “The Monsters Trilogy,” featured the dolls. After partnering with Pop Mart, they broke out into collectible toys.
This year marks the 10th anniversary of Labubu. More than 300 versions of Labubu have been released, Lung said on his profile page.
Why are Labubu dolls so popular?
Like any trendy collectible item — think of Cabbage Patch dolls in the 1980s or Beanie Babies in the 1990s — Labubu dolls are difficult to purchase, unique and can be shared among friends.
“According to Google, searches for ‘Labubu doll’ and ‘Labubu Keychain’ have been at an all-time high in recent weeks and have continued as a top search term. In May alone, Google searches hit 2.1 million,” Today said.
In addition, the dolls are packaged in “blind boxes,” so the style of doll you purchase is revealed after you pay and open the packaging.
“They also come in blind boxes so the hunt becomes harder if you have a particular color or monster in mind. Because of mystery of the blind boxes, the reveal can be a surprise which is why many fans record their first impression of their creature to capture the moment,” Today reported.
Where can I purchase a Labubu doll in Michigan?
The Pop Mart chain — a global entertainment and pop culture toy store — sells Labubus online and in stores.
There are three Pop Mart Robo Shop vending machines in Michigan malls:
Woodland Mall in Kentwood, at 3195 28th St.Twelve Oaks Mall in Novi, at 27500 Novi Road.Great Lakes Crossing Outlets in Auburn Hills, at 4000 Baldwin Road.
Are there fake Labubu dolls?
Yes, knock-off Labubus are so common that fans have given them a name: Lafufus, according to USA TODAY. Here are a couple of ways to avoid purchasing a “Lafufu:”
Make sure that you are purchasing authentic Labubu or “The Monsters” merchandisePurchase the dolls directly from Pop Mart, its Amazon store, or other major retailersBuy Labubus and other items from Pop Mart’s verified TikTok accounts: @popmart_us, @popmart.uslocal01 and @popmart.usshop
Contact Sarah Moore @ smoore@lsj.com