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Labubu: The Mischievous Toy Taking Over Asia

Labubu has become a viral sensation across Asia. Discover why this impish toy is taking over TikTok, Instagram, and collectors' shelves everywhere.

Meet Labubu—the quirky little creature stealing hearts (and shelves) all over Asia! Are you team cute or creepy?

If you’ve been on TikTok, Instagram, or just casually scrolling through online shopping apps, chances are you’ve stumbled upon a wide-eyed, snaggle-toothed creature with wild hair and a mischievous grin. Meet Labubu—the newest toy obsession that has Gen Z and millennials across Asia (and increasingly worldwide) absolutely hooked.

But what exactly is Labubu, and why is everyone so obsessed with it? Let’s dive into the adorable madness.

What Is Labubu?

Labubu is part of the Monsters series, created by How2Work, a Hong Kong-based art toy studio, in collaboration with Kasing Lung, a Belgian-Chinese illustrator. Originally introduced as part of collectible designer vinyl toys, Labubu isn’t your average cute character. Unlike typical kawaii toys with perfect smiles and big anime eyes, Labubu has a slightly impish charm—scruffy hair, a pointy grin, and an elfish vibe that’s more mischievous than innocent.

That contrast is exactly what makes it special. Labubu feels different. It feels like the love child of mischief and magic, and people love that.

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WHAT IS A LABUBU?

Labubu is a character in a series of stories called The Monsters by Hong-Kong born artist Kasing Lung. Inspired by Nordic fairy tales, he created this universe in 2015, with characters modeled after elves, fairies, and monsters.
— Labubu Fans (@labubufans) November 19, 2024

Why Is Labubu Suddenly Everywhere?

There are a few reasons why Labubu is having its moment:

1. The Rise of Designer Toys

Designer toys have been gaining traction for a while now. Limited-edition drops, blind boxes, and collabs with artists have turned what were once children’s toys into collectible art for adults. Brands like POP MART, Molly, and now Labubu have made vinyl figures the new streetwear for your shelf.

Labubu taps into that aesthetic—quirky, exclusive, and highly Instagrammable.

2. Social Media Virality

Labubu is social media gold. From unboxing videos to collectors proudly displaying their armies of Labubu figures, TikTok and Instagram are flooded with content. The character’s quirky expressions and endless costume versions (pirates, astronauts, fruit-themed Labubus—you name it) make it highly shareable.

Funny Labubu Instagram Reels. Credits: Instagram page @itsnasg.

3. Blind Box Culture

One of the biggest drivers behind Labubu’s rise is blind box culture. Fans buy sealed boxes without knowing which design they'll get, making it addictive and exciting, like a mini lottery. Limited edition designs, rare finds, and seasonal drops fuel the FOMO.

4. Asian Pop Culture’s Global Influence

With the global rise of K-pop, anime, and Asian aesthetics, more people are embracing trends from the East. Labubu, while rooted in Chinese art toy culture, rides this wave with perfect timing. It’s not just a figure; it’s a lifestyle trend—one that reflects youth culture, self-expression, and a love for the unconventional.

Labubu as a Reflection of Today’s Youth

What makes Labubu stand out is its attitude. It’s not traditionally cute. It’s a bit edgy, a little weird, and totally unique—just like today’s generation.

$labubu to Fans.

Let's go for a walk ! pic.twitter.com/y3v1MZ6xZq
— Labubu Fans (@labubufans) May 30, 2025

Credits: X account Labubu fans.

In a world saturated with perfectly filtered content and polished branding, Labubu’s oddball energy feels refreshingly real. Young people today are drawn to things that reflect their individuality. Labubu, with its “ugly-cute” vibe, gives them just that.

Plus, the ability to mix and match designs, customize displays, and hunt down rare versions turns collecting into a form of self-expression. It’s not just a toy—it’s a creative outlet.

Where Can You Get Labubu?

You can find Labubu toys at specialty toy stores, online retailers like AliExpress, Shopee, or POP MART, and from resellers on platforms like Etsy or Instagram pages. Prices vary depending on rarity and demand, with limited editions fetching premium rates.

If you’re planning to start your own Labubu collection, keep an eye out for collab drops and seasonal series. New characters drop frequently and sell out even faster.

The Bottom Line

Labubu is more than just a toy—it’s a cultural phenomenon. It taps into art, nostalgia, self-expression, and social media virality all at once. It’s cute, chaotic, and absolutely captivating.

So the next time you see that wide-eyed gremlin pop up on your feed, just know—it’s not just you. The world has fallen under Labubu’s spell.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q1. What is Labubu, and why is it so popular?

Labubu is a collectible designer toy created by Kasing Lung. Its quirky, mischievous look and viral presence on social media have made it a trendy obsession.

Q2. Who created Labubu?

Labubu was designed by illustrator Kasing Lung in collaboration with Hong Kong-based toy company How2Work. It is part of the Monster's art toy series.

Q3. Where can I buy Labubu toys?

You can buy Labubu figures from POP MART stores, Shopee, AliExpress, or toy resellers on platforms like eBay and Instagram. Availability depends on demand and rarity.

Q4. What is blind box culture, and how does it relate to Labubu?

Blind box culture involves buying sealed boxes without knowing the exact toy inside. Labubu figures are often sold this way, adding excitement and collectibility.

Q5. Why is Labubu trending in Asia?

Labubu’s unique blend of art, nostalgia, and quirky aesthetics resonates with Asian youth. It reflects broader trends in pop culture, self-expression, and social media virality.

Stay tuned for more such informative & interesting articles!