Labubu: The Mischievous Plush That’s Taking Over Fashion, Collectibles & Pop Culture
There’s a new face in town. It’s not a celebrity, but it’s more famous than one. Meet Labubu a pointy eared, sharp toothed elf that’s become a must-have in every Gen Z tote and celebrity handbag.
But what even is Labubu? And how did a plushie go from picture-book weirdo to fashion-world flex and collector’s gold?
What is Labubu?
Product form: A plush‑toy “monster‑elf” sold in blind boxes and also as keychains, vinyl figures, plush pendants, and limited‑edition merch.
Character origin: Designed by Hong Kong born (but Netherlands-raised) artist Kasing Lung, Labubu debuted in 2015 in his picture‑book series The Monsters, drawing inspiration from Nordic elves complete with pointy ears and nine serrated teeth.
Why is it trending?
Fashion accessory: It’s not just a toy, it’s a charm, bag bling, even jewellery. Pop Mart opened a luxury accessory store in Shanghai, playing on the “emotion‑consumption” trend.
Celebrity magic spell: When BLACKPINK’s Lisa rocked one on her bag in early 2024, it instantly blew up. Rihanna, Kim Kardashian, Dua Lipa, and even David Beckham caught the bug too.
Blind‑box hype: The thrill of the unknown 1‑in‑72 “secret” rare Labubu variations has TikTokers camping, unboxing, and fighting for the elusive treasure.
Collectible fever: Prices have skyrocketed from $20–$30 retail to rare ones fetching thousands (even $7k online) and human‑sized figures auctioning for over ¥1 million (~$150K–$170K).
The Business Behind the Buzz
- Pop Mart’s Monsters Series (which includes Labubu) brought in over ¥6.3 billion in just six months of 2024.
- Labubu has now expanded into jewelry, fashion accessories, and even mobile games.
- Even Chinese banks tried to lure customers with Labubu dolls until the government said “chill.”
History & Timeline
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 2015 | Labubu introduced in The Monsters picture books by Kasing Lung inspired by Nordic myths. |
| 2019 | Collaboration with Pop Mart begins vinyl figures launched. |
| 2023 | First plush‑pendant “Exciting Macaron” blind‑box released keychain hype begins . |
| 2024 | Celebrity sightings (Lisa etc.) trigger global frenzy; Pop Mart’s Monsters series racks up ¥6.3 billion in half‑year sales . |
| 2025 | Pop Mart expands to jewellery store; life size Labubu auctioned for record sums . |
Final Word: Why Labubu Is Here to Stay
Labubu has become more than merch it’s meaning. It’s proof that storytelling, character design, and clever marketing can turn a plush toy into a global phenomenon.
So next time you see someone flexing a weird little elf on their bag, don’t laugh. They might just be holding onto a $7,000 cultural icon in disguise.
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