Have you ever wondered about those quirky, toothy little creatures popping up everywhere, from designer bags to your TikTok feed? We’re talking about Labubus, and they’ve become an unexpected sensation! But, why are these mischievous monsters suddenly so popular? Let’s dive in!
Labubus weren’t just created overnight. They sprung from the imagination of Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung. Inspired by old European folklore and monsters from his childhood, Lung created “The Monsters Trilogy,” a series of picture books, back in 2015. Labubu, a mischievous elf-like creature with sharp teeth, quickly became the standout character.
The real turning point came in 2019 when Lung partnered with Pop Mart, a massive Chinese toy company. Pop Mart has a genius marketing strategy: “blind boxes.” This means you buy a sealed box without knowing which specific Labubu figure you’ll get until you open it! This element of surprise is incredibly addictive, turning each purchase into a mini-adventure.
Beyond the blind box thrill, Pop Mart intentionally releases Labubus in limited editions, creating scarcity and exclusivity. Plus, there are “secret” rare editions, sometimes with a one in seventy-two chance of finding, making collectors desperate to complete their sets. This scarcity, combined with high demand, has led to some Labubus selling for hundreds, even thousands, of dollars on the resale market, with one even auctioning for an astonishing one hundred seventy thousand dollars!
What truly catapulted Labubus into the mainstream was celebrity endorsement. In early 2024, Blackpink’s Lisa was seen with a Labubu charm, and suddenly, everyone wanted one! Soon, other big names like David Beckham, Simone Biles, Dua Lipa, and Rihanna were spotted with them too. This star power, combined with viral TikTok unboxing videos and memes, turned Labubus into an internet phenomenon, making them a must-have fashion accessory.
So, it’s a perfect storm of factors: their uniquely “ugly-cute” and mischievous design, the addictive thrill of the blind box, the rush of collecting rare items, and the undeniable influence of celebrities and social media. Labubus are more than just toys; they’re a cultural statement, a piece of accessible luxury, and a delightful mystery that keeps people coming back for more!