The Enchanting Story of Labubu: From Illustrated Monster to Global Icon

By Lucca Ferrari — August 2025

Labubu is more than a plush toy — it’s a whimsical, mischievous creature that has captured hearts across the globe. Created by Hong Kong–born illustrator Kasing Lung, Labubu first appeared in 2015 within The Monsters — a series of illustrated books inspired by Nordic folklore. Growing up between Hong Kong and the Netherlands, Kasing developed a distinctive artistic style that blends European storytelling with Asian pop culture aesthetics.

In 2019, Labubu leapt off the page and into the hands of collectors worldwide thanks to a collaboration with Pop Mart, a Chinese company specializing in designer toys. Released through blind box collections, each Labubu came as a surprise — sparking a wave of curiosity, collectibility, and obsession.

From Storybook Character to Pop Culture Phenomenon

Labubu’s global breakout came in 2024 when Lisa from Blackpink was spotted carrying a Labubu keychain on her luxury handbag. That single moment catapulted the quirky “ugly-cute” elf into the mainstream. Today, Labubu comes in over 300 variations, from tiny collectibles to a massive 1.2-meter mint-green edition — one of which sold for an astounding $170,000 at an official auction in Beijing in June 2025.

A Style Statement for Celebrities and Fans Alike

Labubu has been embraced as both a toy and a fashion accessory. From Rihanna to Dua Lipa and even Lady Gaga (who owns a custom gothic-glam Labubu), the creature has become a quirky luxury emblem. It thrives in the space between adorable and unsettling — a perfect metaphor for the playful rebellion in today’s fashion scene.

The Dark Side of the Craze

With skyrocketing demand comes a shadow market. Fake Labubu dolls — often called “Lafufu” — have emerged, with some counterfeits found to contain toxic materials. The frenzy has been so intense that economists have compared the trend to the “lipstick index” — suggesting that this kind of small luxury splurge may reflect deeper shifts in consumer sentiment during uncertain economic times.

Why Labubu Matters

Labubu isn’t just a toy; it’s part of a cultural movement. Psychologists point to the rise of kidulthood — a longing for childhood innocence in a fast-paced, high-pressure world. Labubu offers adults a tangible escape, a reminder that whimsy still has a place in everyday life.

Quick Facts:

Labubu’s story proves that even the strangest little monster can become a worldwide sensation — if it carries the right mix of artistry, rarity, and emotional connection.