How Did Labubu Got So Popular?

by Labubu Keychains Editorial Team

Jul 3, 2025

Labubu

Labubu, the quirky, elf-like creature with its pointy ears and mischievous grin, has quietly transformed from a niche storybook character into a global pop culture phenomenon. Today, it’s not just a collectible—it’s a fashion accessory, a social media darling, and a symbol of modern creativity. But how exactly did Labubu go from the pages of a picture book to the shelves (and hearts) of collectors around the world?

Let’s dive into the story behind Labubu’s meteoric rise and explore the perfect storm of artistry, marketing, celebrity influence, and community that turned this little monster into a designer toy icon.

From Storybook to Shelf: Labubu’s Origins

Labubu was born in 2015 from the imagination of Kasing Lung, a Hong Kong-born artist whose work is deeply influenced by Nordic folklore, fairy tales, and the whimsical creatures that populate them. Labubu made its first appearance in Lung’s illustrated series The Monsters, where it was portrayed as a mischievous yet kind-hearted character with wild hair, big eyes, and a toothy grin featuring nine sharp fangs.

At first, Labubu lived quietly in the pages of Lung’s books, cherished by a small but loyal fan base. But everything changed in 2019.

The Pop Mart Partnership: A Game-Changing Moment

In 2019, Kasing Lung partnered with Pop Mart, a Beijing-based company that had already made waves in the designer toy world. Pop Mart’s specialty? Blind box collectibles—sealed boxes that contain a surprise figure from a series. You don’t know which one you’ll get until you open it, which adds an irresistible thrill to the experience.

Labubu’s unique charm, combined with the excitement of blind boxes, proved to be a winning formula. The first series of Labubu figures sold out almost instantly, and a new wave of fans was born.

The Blind Box Boom: Collecting as a Lifestyle

Pop Mart’s blind box strategy was more than just a gimmick—it was a cultural shift. The element of surprise, the hunt for rare “chase” figures, and the community aspect of trading turned Labubu collecting into a lifestyle.

Some rare Labubu editions have fetched thousands of dollars on the resale market. Limited releases and secret figures only added to the frenzy, making each unboxing feel like a treasure hunt. To ensure you’re getting the real deal, learn about authentic Labubu.

And Pop Mart made sure there was something for everyone. From $20 mini figures to high-end collectibles priced in the hundreds, Labubu became accessible to both casual fans and serious collectors.

Celebrity Love: When Labubu Met the Stars

Labubu’s rise wasn’t just about clever marketing—it was also about star power.

When Lisa from BLACKPINK, one of the most influential K-pop idols in the world, posted about her Labubu collection, the internet took notice. Suddenly, Labubu wasn’t just a toy—it was a must-have accessory.

Soon after, celebrities like Rihanna, Dua Lipa, and Kim Kardashian were spotted with Labubu plushies and keychains. Even members of royal families were seen with Labubu charms dangling from their designer handbags.

Labubu had officially crossed over from collectible to cultural icon.

Fashion Meets Fantasy: Labubu as a Style Statement

Labubu’s appeal didn’t stop at toy collectors. It quickly found a home in the world of fashion.

From Paris Fashion Week to streetwear influencers on Instagram, Labubu became a trendy accessory. Fans clipped Labubu Plush Keychains to luxury bags, styled them with outfits, and even incorporated them into editorial shoots.

This fashion crossover helped Labubu reach an even broader audience—people who may not have been toy collectors but were drawn to its unique aesthetic and playful energy.

Social Media Magic: The Power of Community

Labubu’s global rise wouldn’t have been possible without the power of social media.

On platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter), fans began sharing unboxing videos, collection displays, fan art, and even Labubu-inspired outfits. The hashtag #Labubu racked up millions of views, and entire communities formed around trading, showcasing, and celebrating the character. Want to join the craze?

Pop Mart leaned into this momentum, hosting pop-up shops, exclusive launches, and collaborations with local artists in cities from Los Angeles to Tokyo. The result? Long lines, sold-out events, and a growing sense of FOMO that only increased Labubu’s desirability.

A Symbol of Modern Chinese Pop Culture

Labubu’s story is also part of a larger narrative: the emergence of Chinese pop culture on the global stage.

Created by a Hong Kong-born artist and brought to international fame by a Chinese company, Labubu is a fusion of East and West. It reflects the creativity, innovation, and commercial savvy that’s driving China’s new wave of cultural exports.

In regions like Southeast Asia, Labubu has even taken on symbolic meaning. Some fans treat their Labubu figures as lucky charms, “praying to Labubu” for good fortune or success. Curious about its emotional impact?

Why Everyone Wants a Labubu

So what makes Labubu so irresistible? Here’s a breakdown of the magic behind its popularity:

Unique Design: Labubu is cute, but with a twist. Its toothy grin and wild hair give it personality and edge.
Blind Box Excitement: The thrill of not knowing which figure you’ll get keeps fans coming back for more.
Celebrity Endorsements: When global stars love something, the world pays attention.
Social Media Buzz: Viral videos, fan art, and collector communities fuel ongoing interest.
Fashion Crossover: Labubu isn’t just a toy—it’s a style statement.
Cultural Resonance: It represents the creative energy of modern China while appealing to global tastes.

Final Thoughts: More Than Just a Toy

Labubu’s rise is more than a success story—it’s a case study in how art, marketing, and community can come together to create something truly special.

From its humble beginnings in a picture book to its current status as a billion-dollar brand, Labubu has become a symbol of creativity, individuality, and global connection. It’s not just a collectible—it’s a movement.

And with new designs, collaborations, and fan-driven content emerging all the time, Labubu’s story is far from over.

Whether you’re a longtime collector or just discovering the charm of this mischievous little monster, one thing is clear: Labubu is here to stay.