If you’ve spent any time on Instagram lately, you’ve probably seen those quirky, wide-eyed little creatures with toothy grins popping up everywhere. Maybe you’ve watched a friend tear open a tiny box, hoping to find that one rare figure, or noticed a celebrity casually posing with a Labubu on their handbags. But what’s the story behind these dolls, and why are people (grown-ups included) so obsessed?
The Magical Origins of Labubu
Labubu isn’t just another cute toy; it’s the brainchild of Kasing Lung, an artist who grew up in Hong Kong and later moved to the Netherlands. Inspired by the fairy tales and folklore of his childhood, Kasing started out illustrating children’s books. But it was his creation of Labubu—a mischievous, elf-like character with a fuzzy head and a mouthful of pointy teeth—that really stood out.
Labubu’s look is a little bit weird, a little bit wild, and Thats what makes it totally irresistible. There’s something about those big eyes and cheeky smile makes you want to pick one up and take it home.
The Pop Mart Phenomenon: Why Everyone Wants a Labubu
Labubu’s big break came when Kasing teamed up with Pop Mart, the Chinese toy company that turned “blind box” collecting into a worldwide craze. Here’s how it works: you buy a sealed box, not knowing which Labubu design is inside. It’s a bit like a lottery ticket—sometimes you get a common figure, sometimes you score a super-rare one. The thrill of the unknown is half the fun.
Pop Mart releases Labubu dolls in all sorts of themes: pastel macarons, wild animals, even collaborations with brands like Coca-Cola or anime series like One Piece. Labubu contributed significantly to the overall revenue of Pop Mart. In 2024, Labubus generated 3 billion yuan (approximately $420 million) of Pop Mart’s total revenue, which was 13.04 billion yuan (around $1.8 billion).
Celebrities, Social Media, and the Labubu Lifestyle
Even international celebrities have become hardcore Labubu collectors. Celebrities like Rihanna, Dua Lipa, and BLACKPINK’s Lisa have all shown off their Labubu dolls online. When Lisa was spotted with one, fans in Thailand went wild—so wild, in fact, that the government had to warn people about Labubu scams!
On social media, Labubu unboxings and collection tours rack up millions of views. People trade tips, show off their rare finds, and even create Labubu fan art. There’s a real sense of community embedded with part nostalgia, part treasure hunt, part pure joy.
The Makers: Kasing Lung and the Art of Storytelling
What makes Labubu special isn’t just the cute designs; it’s the story behind them. Kasing Lung pours his love of fairy tales and monsters into every figure. Each Labubu feels like it has a personality—a mischievous friend who’s always up for an adventure. Pop Mart’s marketing magic just amplifies that, turning every release into an event.
Why We Can’t Get Enough?
So why do people, from kids to celebrities, keep coming back for more? Maybe it’s the thrill of the chase, the nostalgia of collecting, or the simple happiness that comes from holding something whimsical in your hand. In a world that can feel overwhelming, Labubu is a reminder to stay a little weird, a little wonder, and a lot of fun.
