As the breakout star of POP MART (泡泡玛特), LABUBU has transcended its origins as a niche collectible to become a global cultural phenomenon. This fuzzy, toothy-elven character—created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung—has redefined the boundaries of art, fashion, and play. With its unique blend of whimsy and edge, LABUBU has captivated audiences from Bangkok to Berlin, making it a must-know for travelers and trendsetters alike.
1. The Birth of a Cultural Icon
LABUBU’s journey began in 2018 when Kasing Lung introduced the character as part of his THE MONSTERS series, inspired by Nordic folklore and childhood nostalgia. Unlike traditional cute toys, LABUBU’s design challenges norms with its pointed ears, razor-sharp teeth, and mischievous grin—a concept Lung calls “Childlike Grotesque” . This blend of innocence and eeriness struck a chord with Gen Z, who embraced LABUBU as a symbol of self-expression and anti-perfectionism.
In 2024, LABUBU’s global appeal reached new heights when Thailand’s Tourism Authority named it “Amazing Thailand Experience Ambassador”, marking the first time a Chinese 潮玩 IP received such an honor . The move solidified LABUBU’s role as a cross-cultural ambassador, with its image appearing in Thai tourism campaigns and even gracing the wrists of royalty like Princess Sirivannavari.
2. Design Philosophy: Where Cute Meets Creepy
Visual Contradictions
- Dual Identity: LABUBU’s round eyes and fluffy body evoke innocence, while its claw-like hands and menacing teeth hint at a darker side. This yin-yang balance mirrors modern consumers’ desire for complexity in their collectibles .
- Gender Neutrality: With no defined gender or race, LABUBU appeals universally, allowing fans to project their own stories onto the character.
Material Innovation
- Sustainable Craftsmanship: LABUBU’s plush toys use recycled polyester, while 搪胶 figures incorporate biodegradable resins, aligning with global eco-trends .
- Interactive Details: Limited-edition releases often include secret compartments or removable accessories, encouraging hands-on engagement.
Collaborative Artistry
LABUBU’s design evolves through partnerships with brands like Vans (skatewear) and PRONOUNCE (luxury fashion), blending streetwear aesthetics with high art. The 2024 Vans x LABUBU collection, featuring checkerboard patterns and tooth-shaped soles, sold out within hours globally .
3. The LABUBU Empire: From Blind Boxes to Global Domination
Blockbuster Releases
- 2025 Chess Adventure Series: A 17cm plush queen figure with hand-stitched details sold out within 24 hours of launch, fetching 60% premiums on resale platforms like StockX .
- One Piece Collaboration: The 2025 LABUBU x 航海王 blind boxes, featuring characters like Luffy and Zoro, became the fastest-selling 联名款 in POP MART history, with secondary market prices soaring to ¥1,400 per unit .
Market Dominance
- Revenue Powerhouse: LABUBU’s parent IP, THE MONSTERS, generated ¥3 billion ($414 million) in 2024 revenue, a 700% year-on-year increase .
- Global Footprint: POP MART operates 55 overseas stores (including Bangkok’s LABUBU-themed flagship) and 143 vending machines in 35 countries, with North American sales surging 895% in Q1 2025 .
Cultural Impact
- Celebrity Endorsements: Rihanna and Cate Blanchett have been spotted with LABUBU accessories, while Thai actress Lisa’s Instagram posts wearing LABUBU merch drove a 500% spike in Southeast Asian sales .
- Fan Fandom: Social media hashtags like #StylingMyBagWithLabubu (TikTok) and #LabubuCollectors (Instagram) showcase how fans incorporate LABUBU into fashion, home decor, and even weddings .
4. How to Collect LABUBU Internationally
Where to Buy
- Official Channels:
- POP MART Global Website: Ships to 42 countries, offering 3D customization for limited-edition figures.
- Amazon US/UK: Exclusives like the NASA 联名 T 恤 (¥30–35) and THE MONSTERS 盲盒 are available with Prime shipping .
- Local Retailers:
- Emil Frey Group (Europe) and Berlian Motors (Indonesia) carry exclusive regional designs.
- Thailand’s Central World Mall: Home to the world’s largest LABUBU store, featuring 泰限定款 like the “Thai Princess” figure .
Tips for Collectors
- Avoid Scams: Verify sellers on platforms like Carousell (Singapore) and StockX by checking authenticity tags and buyer reviews .
- Leverage Subscriptions: The POP MART Premium Box delivers quarterly exclusive releases to your door, with members getting 10% off and early access.
- Join Communities: Facebook groups like LABUBU Lovers Worldwide and Reddit’s r/PopMartTrade connect collectors for swaps and rare finds.
Cost & Value
- Price Range: Blind boxes start at ¥59 ($8) for standard editions, while MEGA珍藏系列 (35cm figures) retail for ¥1,999 ($276).
- Investment Potential: The 2024 Vans 联名款 (¥599) now sells for ¥14,000 ($1,930) on secondary markets, highlighting LABUBU’s resale value .
6. Why LABUBU Resonates with Global Audiences
Emotional Connection
- Nostalgia with a Twist: LABUBU’s blend of childhood innocence and adult-edge appeals to millennials and Gen Z, who seek toys that reflect their complex identities .
- Community Building: The LABUBU Tribe—a global network of collectors—organizes meetups, cosplay events, and charity drives, fostering a sense of belonging .
Innovation at Scale
- Tech Integration: The POP MART App uses AR to let users “interact” with LABUBU in virtual environments, enhancing engagement .
- Experiential Retail: The THE MONSTERS 森林秘密基地 pop-up in Hangzhou (2025) featured a 5-meter LABUBU sculpture and interactive games, blending retail with immersive art .
Cultural Bridges
- East-West Fusion: LABUBU’s design draws from both Chinese street art and Scandinavian minimalism, making it relatable across cultures.
- Soft Power: Through partnerships with brands like NASA and 卢浮宫, LABUBU introduces Chinese 潮流文化 to Western audiences, positioning POP MART as a global tastemaker .
7. Conclusion
LABUBU isn’t just a toy—it’s a cultural movement. By blending artistic rebellion, sustainable design, and global accessibility, POP MART has transformed a niche 潮玩 into a universal symbol of creativity and connection. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious traveler, LABUBU offers a gateway into China’s vibrant 潮流文化 scene. So, the next time you’re in Bangkok or Berlin, keep an eye out for this mischievous elf—you might just find yourself falling under its spell.
