The genesis of Labubu is deeply linked to the imagination of Hong Kong illustrator Kasing Lung. Before becoming a viral toy, Labubu appeared as a character in the narrative universe of The Monsters, a picture book that explored fantastical creatures with a dark yet tender tone.
This literary background gave Labubu a unique origin: it is not a simple doll, but a representation of the border between the adorable and the disturbing.
The design blends references to Nordic folklore, traditional tales, and the aesthetics of European underground comics. His long ears, sharp smile, and large eyes convey both sweetness and mischief, making him an unforgettable figure.
🎁 The “jack-in-the-box” effect and the culture of collecting
One of Pop Mart's greatest successes was selling Labubu in blind boxes. This strategy creates an experience similar to opening a treasure chest: the shopper doesn't know which version of the doll they'll find inside, which creates anticipation, anxiety, and, in many cases, the need to keep buying until they complete the collection.
This format transformed Labubu into something more than a toy: it became part of a playful and social consumer experience. Fans trade duplicate dolls, create online communities, and even participate in fairs and conventions dedicated exclusively to these figures.
👩🎤 Lisa and the K-pop factor in viralization
Labubu's global fame can't be understood without mentioning BLACKPINK member Lisa. When she was spotted at the airport and in Instagram posts carrying a Labubu accessory, fans began desperately searching for information about the character.
The relationship between K-pop culture and collecting is close: fans tend to imitate and acquire everything their idols use.
Thus, what began as a personal gesture from Lisa ended up generating an international boom. Thousands of BLACKPINK fans joined the Labubu craze, driving up the price of the figures and multiplying their visibility on social media platforms like TikTok and Weibo.
📺 Labubu on social media, memes, and digital media
Labubu's growth wasn't limited to physical collectibles. Soon, the figure became the star of viral memes, WhatsApp stickers, Instagram filters, and even fan-created minigames.
The character went from being a simple collectible to a digital culture icon. On platforms like Douyin and TikTok, unboxing videos, challenges with Labubu, and even parodies featuring the doll in everyday situations became popular.
🎮 Labubu in games and virtual worlds
Although there's no official video game yet, the fan community has developed digital versions of Labubu in the form of mods, skins, and characters within popular games like Minecraft and The Sims. Projects have also emerged in the world of NFTs and metaverses, where Labubu is transformed into a collectible digital avatar.
This leap into the digital world not only expands its universe, but also ensures its continued presence in the new forms of entertainment of the 21st century.
🌟 Limited editions and exclusive collaborations
Another secret to Labubu's success is its limited editions. Pop Mart and Kasing Lung have released themed versions:
- Labubu inspired by sweets like macarons.
- Collaborations with museums, such as the Louvre, where versions with an artistic aesthetic were designed.
- Crossovers with anime like One Piece.
These special editions fuel the sense of exclusivity and trigger collector fever, with collectors often paying astronomical sums for a rare version of the doll.
🌏 Labubu as a cultural ambassador
Labubu's popularity was so great that he even became a tourism ambassador for Hong Kong. He was used in international campaigns, such as promoting tourism in Thailand, leveraging his charisma and global appeal. This phenomenon demonstrates how a toy can become a tool for cultural diplomacy and international marketing.
💸 The parallel market and the “Lafufus”
The fever also brought a dark side: the rise of counterfeits. Known as "Lafufus," these copies flooded informal markets, especially in Asia and Latin America. Although cheaper, they are often made of low-quality materials, posing health risks to children.
Furthermore, the scarcity of limited editions has created a parallel resale market, where a Labubu that originally cost $15 or $20 can fetch prices of up to $500 on secondhand platforms.
🙋♀️ Did you know that Labubu is feminine?
A curious fact that many people don't know is that Labubu is actually a girl. This detail breaks with the initial perception of many collectors and adds a deeper level of identity to the character. Kasing Lung conceived him as a feminine being with a free spirit, rebellious and full of adventure.
🎨 Labubu and fan culture
The fan community plays a vital role in the growth of the phenomenon. Many artists create fan art, custom clothing, accessories, and even homemade animations. Labubu has evolved from a toy to a symbol of collective creativity, inspiring both adults and young people.
🔮 The future of Labubu
The future looks bright: Pop Mart is already planning to expand Labubu's presence with more collaborations, possible animated series, and licensed products. Its foray into digital media, along with endorsements from celebrities like Lisa, ensures it will remain a cultural icon for years to come.
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- 🚀 Best Apps to Increase Mobile Volume
- 5 cars that consume the most gasoline
- 🚭 Quitting Smoking: 10 Key Steps and a Support App to Help You Succeed
✨ Conclusion
Labubu began as a literary character, but today it's a global phenomenon that combines art, collecting, marketing, and pop culture. Its story reflects how a unique design, combined with smart marketing strategies and the support of influential figures, can transform a small, fantastical creature into a global symbol of nostalgia and trend.
