Entertainment
The Rise of the Adorably Mischievous La Bobo (Labubu)
Imagine a creature that’s equal parts “ugly‑cute” and beautifully bizarre. That’s Labubu, the elf‑like character created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, brought to life by China’s Pop Mart. Since debuting in 2015 and soaring in popularity after launching at Pop Mart in 2019, Labubu has taken the global collectibles scene by storm.
What Makes Labubu So Popular?
- Blind‑box format: Opening a package without knowing which figure you’ll get creates excitement and a collectors’ thrill. Rare “secret” conventions add to the hype.
- Celebrity endorsements: From Blackpink’s Lisa posting a Labubu keychain to sightings by Rihanna, Kim Kardashian, and David Beckham, celebrity spots helped fuel the craze.
- Design that stands out: Bold smile, nine-pointy teeth, rounded furry body, big ears—Labubu plays with the line between cute and uncanny, like a cuddly trickster.
Global Frenzy: From Asia to Berlin
In places from Bangkok and London to Berlin, fans line up by the hour for blind-box drops. A recent store opening in Berlin sparked massive queues that circled entire blocks. The trend has grown from Asia’s collector culture to a mainstream global phenomenon.
When Fashion Meets Toy Culture
By 2025, Labubu isn’t just a toy—it’s a cultural passport. Collaborations include Miu Miu x Puyi eyewear, a Pop Mart x Uniqlo capsule, and even Jacob & Co. x G‑Dragon jewelry. Brands are tapping this IP to connect with younger, trend-savvy consumers.
Value at Every Scale
Labubu comes in many forms—from small keychains (~$15) to limited-edition prints and mega vinyl figures. At a recent auction in Beijing, a 4 ft mint-green collectible sold for $170,000.
Meanwhile, the brand pulled in ¥6.3 billion (~US $870M) in just the first half of 2024.
Controversy & Criticism
With popularity comes concern. Pop Mart paused Labubu sales in all UK stores in May 2025 after chaotic fights over limited-stock drops. In Russia and Iraqi Kurdistan, authorities proposed bans citing worries about the toy’s “frightening appearance” or local superstitions.
Why Labubu Is More Than Just a Toy
| Factor | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Blind-box mystery | Taps into collector thrill and surprise |
| Visual identity | Distinctive design fosters brand loyalty |
| Cultural cache | Instagram-ready, celebrity-endorsed |
| Limited editions | Drives resale value and scarcity buzz |
Final Thoughts
La Bobo’s charm is paradoxical: it’s adorable yet unsettling, simple yet strategic. It doesn’t just sit on a shelf—it sparks conversation, fuels fashion partnerships, and challenges traditional ideas of what makes a toy collectible.
Whether you’re looking for your next obsession or wondering what powers toy culture today, Labubu shows just how a playful fantasy creature can become a cultural icon.