By Ace Vincent
| Published 1 day ago
Have you noticed those cute little creatures with pointy ears and wide grins popping up everywhere? Those are Labubu toys, and they have taken the world by storm.
From celebrities carrying them to massive crowds hunting for them in stores, these tiny characters have become a global phenomenon that shows no signs of slowing down.
Ready to understand what all the fuss is about? Let’s dive into the world of Labubu and discover what makes these little monsters so special.
She’s actually a girl character
Labubu is an elf character and according to the original books, actually a girl. She features high, pointed ears, has nine serrated teeth and doesn’t have a tail.
Many people assume Labubu is gender-neutral because of the simple design, but the creator specifically made her female. Labubu is described as an “elvish creature”, and according to Pop Mart, “despite a mischievous look, she is kind-hearted and always wants to help, but often accidentally achieves the opposite.”
Created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung in 2015
Labubu is a character created in 2015 by Hong Kong-born artist and illustrator Kasing Lung. The small monster with long, pointed ears and a row of sharp teeth first existed in the pages of picture books before becoming toys.
Simply put, a Labubu is a toy inspired by the story series “The Monsters” created by artist Kasing Lung, who was born in Hong Kong and later moved to The Netherlands. The artist drew inspiration from Nordic mythology to create this unique world.
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Started as characters in Nordic-inspired picture books
In 2015, Kasing Lung created a fairy world in three picture books inspired by Nordic mythology, and populated it with magical characters both good and evil, calling them The Monsters. Among them, the most prominent one was LABUBU, a small monster with high, pointed ears and serrated teeth.
They first originated in Hong Kong, and unlike its popular predecessors (Hello Kitty and other plush characters), they are described as elvish creatures. They came to fruition in a Nordic-inspired picture book that artist Kasing Lung created.
Pop Mart made her famous worldwide in 2019
Labubu was first introduced in 2015 with “Monsters” figurines produced by the company How2Work; the toy gained wider recognition in 2019 following a collaboration with Pop Mart. This partnership boosted Labubu’s popularity among collectors.
Pop Mart, a Chinese toy company, specializes in collectible figures and blind boxes. This partnership introduced Labubu as a collectible figure, but it wasn’t until 2024 that it became a true global sensation.
Comes in mysterious blind boxes
Labubu dolls come in various colors and are sold in “blind boxes,” meaning the figure inside is a mystery until opened. Part of the appeal is the surprise element, and the chance to unbox a rare “secret” doll.
Blind boxes add excitement to collecting because you never know which version you’ll get. Each series features different colors, outfits, or poses, making every purchase feel like a treasure hunt.
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Over 300 different versions exist
By 2025, the brand had released over 300 different Labubu figurines, showing just how popular the character has become. These include different series like Tasty Macarons, Have a Seat, and many seasonal collections.
Some versions feature different colored jumpsuits, while others have unique poses or accessories. The faces of the characters are made of vinyl, giving each one a distinct personality despite the same basic design.
Celebrities love carrying them around
According to POP MART, the revenue … Lipa, Rihanna, and Lisa from the K-pop group BLACKPINK. These high-profile endorsements helped push Labubu into mainstream culture beyond toy collecting circles.
When celebrities post photos with their Labubu figures, millions of fans see them and want their own. Social media has turned Labubu from a niche collectible into a fashion accessory that people proudly show off.
The design creates instant emotional reactions
Labubu’s illustration roots show in every detail. The oversized eyes convey innocence, while those signature teeth hint at mischief.
The combination creates an instant emotional response – you either love it or you’re completely puzzled by it. The contrast between cute and slightly scary makes Labubu stand out from other toy characters.
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Inspired merchandise beyond toys
The plush toys have now inspired an assortment of clothes, accessories and even storage solutions — specifically protective cases like this one. Fans can now buy Labubu keychains, phone cases, clothing, and even home decor items.
The character’s simple design works well on different products, from tiny charms to large backpacks. This expansion shows how a successful character can grow beyond its original toy format into a lifestyle brand.
Collectors use special display cases
Bigger Labubu designs often go into premium display boxes made of plastic or glass. These sturdy enclosures protect the figure from damage and dust.
A clear front or sides also help show off the figure’s details. Serious collectors treat their Labubu figures like valuable art pieces, carefully arranging them for maximum visual impact.
Debunked demon connection rumors
Claims that a popular toy collectible was actually inspired by a demon from ancient folklore circulated online in July 2025. Some users claimed that Labubu, a cute, fuzzy monster with big eyes and a wide grin that has become an international sales sensation, was inspired by a demon called Pazuzu.
These rumors spread quickly on social media but have no basis in fact. The real inspiration comes from Nordic mythology and the artist’s imagination, not ancient demons.
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Marketing experts study the success formula
Labubu dolls have taken the world by storm. According to Tianxin Zou, Ph.D., an assistant professor of marketing in the University of Florida Warrington College of Business, there are a few reasons behind Pop Mart’s success.
The blind box model creates excitement and repeat purchases. Limited editions drive urgency, while social media sharing builds community among collectors.
Available through multiple retail channels
You can find Labubu figures at Pop Mart stores, online retailers like StockX, and even Amazon. They also have the “Tasty Macarons” and “Have a Seat” series of Labubus available.
Different retailers sometimes carry exclusive series or colors, making the hunt more interesting for collectors. Online marketplaces also feature rare or sold-out versions at premium prices, creating a secondary market for dedicated fans.
Different series have unique themes
Each Labubu series tells a different story or explores a new concept. The Tasty Macarons series features food-themed outfits and accessories.
Have a Seat shows Labubu in various sitting poses with different furniture. Seasonal collections might include holiday themes or special color schemes.
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International shipping spreads the craze
Pop Mart’s global shipping capabilities helped Labubu reach collectors worldwide simultaneously. When a new series launches, fans from different countries can all participate in the excitement together.
Social media posts from collectors around the world create a shared experience that crosses cultural boundaries. This international reach turned a Hong Kong creation into a truly global phenomenon.
Size options suit different collectors
Labubu figures come in various sizes, from tiny keychain versions to larger display pieces. Smaller figures work well as everyday accessories or gifts for new collectors.
Bigger versions show more detail and make impressive display pieces for serious fans. Different sizes also appeal to different age groups and collecting preferences.
The appeal crosses age groups
Unlike many toy lines that target specific age ranges, Labubu attracts both children and adults. Kids love the cute design and bright colors, while adults appreciate the collecting aspect and artistic value.
Young professionals display Labubu figures in their offices or homes as conversation pieces. Parents and children often collect together, making it a family activity that brings different generations together.
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From storybook to global icon
What started as characters in Nordic-inspired picture books has grown into a worldwide cultural phenomenon that shows no signs of slowing down. Labubu proves that good character design combined with smart marketing can create something that resonates across different cultures and age groups.
The journey from Hong Kong artist’s imagination to global sensation demonstrates how creativity and business strategy can work together to build something truly special. Whether you love them or find them puzzling, Labubu figures have definitely left their mark on pop culture and the collectible toy industry.
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