Who is Labubu? Unveiling the past and present of this mischievous little spirit created by Kasing Lung.

Labubu is a collectible plush toy monster elf created by Kasing Lung in 2015. With its fluffy fur, pointed ears, and a wide, toothy grin, labubu stands out in any collection. This little spirit looks mischievous but has a kind heart that wins over fans everywhere. Labubu’s look draws inspiration from Nordic folklore and childhood dreams. Collectors love dressing labubu in different Labubu clothes, making each one feel unique.

Kasing Lung, a Hong Kong-born artist, brought labubu to life as part of The Monsters series.

Key Takeaways

• Labubu is a unique plush toy created by artist Kasing Lung in 2015, inspired by Nordic folklore and childhood stories.

• The character’s playful yet kind personality and distinctive design make Labubu popular among collectors worldwide.

• Pop Mart’s marketing, including blind boxes and celebrity endorsements, helped Labubu become a global cultural icon.

• Fans enjoy customizing Labubu dolls and sharing their creativity, building a strong and active community.

• Labubu’s future looks bright with new collaborations, limited editions, and growing popularity in the designer toy market.

Labubu Origins

Kasing Lung

Kasing Lung, a Hong Kong-born artist and the father of labubu, started his creative journey in 1972. He moved to the Netherlands with his family when he was seven. Dutch was new to him, so he learned by reading picture books and drawing. His parents owned a restaurant, and he often spent time upstairs, sketching and imagining stories. Childhood in Europe gave him a love for Nordic folklore and elf legends. These stories shaped his art style and ideas.

He began his career as a children’s book illustrator in Belgium. He won awards for his illustrations and published his first Chinese book, "My Little Planet," in Taiwan in 2013. In 2014, he worked with a Belgian publisher on "Lizzy Wil Dansen." By 2015, he created The Monsters series, which included labubu. Over the years, he has lived in both Hong Kong and Belgium. He held his first solo art show in Tokyo in 2020. Today, he focuses on painting and continues to expand his world of characters.

Kasing Lung’s childhood memories and love for fairy tales helped him create labubu’s unique personality.

The Monsters Series

The Monsters series began in 2015. Labubu made its first appearance in this story collection. The series draws inspiration from Nordic mythology and the magical creatures Kasing Lung read about as a child. Each character in the series has a special look and personality. Some of labubu’s friends include Zimomo, Yaya, Tycoco, and Spooky. These characters all have their own stories and traits.

Labubu stands out with its mischievous grin, sharp teeth, and pointed ears. Even though labubu looks a bit naughty, it has a kind heart. The character’s design mixes playful and gentle features, making it easy for fans to connect with labubu. Over time, labubu’s personality has grown, reflecting Kasing Lung’s own journey as an artist.

The Monsters series started with How2Work, a Hong Kong company. In 2019, Pop Mart began producing labubu figures, which helped the character reach more fans around the world. By 2025, over 300 labubu figurines had been released. The series has become a big part of the designer toy world.

Did you know? Labubu’s name was inspired by Kasing Lung’s daughter, who wanted names that were fun and easy to say.

Labubu’s story shows how a small idea can grow into something big. The Monsters series, with labubu at its heart, continues to inspire fans and collectors everywhere.

Creation

Design

Labubu’s design journey started with Kasing Lung’s love for fairy tales and mythical creatures. He wanted to create a character that looked both mischievous and lovable. Labubu’s furry elf look, serrated teeth, and pointed ears all come from Kasing’s childhood memories of Nordic legends. He drew inspiration from trolls and elves, giving labubu a unique “ugly-cute” style. The fluffy fur and wide grin make labubu dolls stand out on any shelf.

Kasing Lung’s creative process always begins with a story. He sketches ideas in his notebook, imagining how labubu would act in different situations. The character’s sharp teeth and playful eyes show a mix of mischief and kindness. Labubu’s design invites fans to see both its wild side and its gentle heart. This balance makes labubu dolls perfect for collectors who want something different.

Labubu’s look is more than just a toy. It’s a canvas for creativity. Fans love to customize their labubu dolls, adding clothes, accessories, and even painting new faces. This DIY trend has built a strong community where people share their creations and inspire each other.

Pop Mart plays a big role in bringing labubu to the world. The company uses trademark and intellectual property strategies to protect labubu’s design. They also create excitement by releasing limited-edition labubu dolls. These special releases make each doll feel rare and valuable. Pop Mart’s mystery blind boxes add an extra layer of fun, turning every unboxing into a surprise.

• Scarcity and exclusivity drive demand for labubu dolls.

• Emotional connections grow as fans see labubu’s quirky personality.

• Community events and social media keep collectors engaged.

• The thrill of opening a mystery box keeps people coming back for more.

Labubu’s design stands out because it mixes nostalgia, creativity, and a touch of rebellion. The character’s furry texture and sharp teeth remind people of magical creatures from old stories. At the same time, labubu feels fresh and modern, thanks to Kasing Lung’s artistic vision.

Story

Labubu’s story goes beyond its playful appearance. Kasing Lung created labubu as a reflection of his own personality. He wanted a character that could be both naughty and kind, just like real people. Labubu’s adventures often show it getting into trouble but always finding a way to help others. This mix of mischief and heart makes labubu easy to love.

The story of labubu dolls also includes the fans who collect them. People use labubu dolls to express their own creativity. Some paint new faces, while others sew tiny outfits or build custom displays. The DIY labubu trend has turned collecting into a form of art. Fans share their work online, building a community that celebrates individuality and imagination.

The rise of labubu dolls shows how a simple idea can grow into a global phenomenon. Pop Mart’s marketing strategy uses celebrity endorsements, social media, and emotional storytelling to reach new fans. K-Pop stars and influencers have helped labubu become a cultural icon.

Pop Mart’s business model supports labubu’s creative journey. The company offers products at different price points, from affordable blind boxes to high-end jewelry. Some labubu dolls have even sold at auction for over a million yuan. Pop Mart’s share price has soared, thanks in part to the popularity of labubu dolls. The brand’s focus on emotional value and community keeps fans excited for every new release.

Labubu’s story is still growing. Each new design and collaboration adds another chapter. Fans around the world continue to find joy and inspiration in labubu dolls, making them a lasting part of pop culture.

Evolution

Collectibles

Labubu’s journey from a niche character to one of the most popular toys in the world is full of excitement. Fans rush to buy new figures, and restocks often sell out in less than 30 minutes. Sometimes, the demand is so high that websites crash. This rush creates a sense of urgency and makes each release feel special. Blind-box sales add to the thrill, as collectors never know which version they will get. Many people share their unboxing experiences on social media, especially TikTok, where over 1.3 million posts feature Labubu. These videos help Labubu go viral and attract new fans every day.

• Blind-box gamification creates excitement and scarcity.

• Celebrity endorsements from stars like Rihanna and Lisa from Blackpink boost Labubu’s fame.

• Limited editions and exclusive regional designs make each figure unique.

• Some rare Labubu collectibles resell for over $1,000 in the secondary market.

• Expansion into plush bag charms and fashion accessories brings Labubu to new audiences.

Pop Mart’s global reach has helped Labubu become a household name. In 2024, overseas sales grew by 375%, showing strong international demand. The designer toy market in China is booming, with sales expected to reach $15 billion by 2026. Labubu’s story shows how collectibles can become cultural icons.

Collaborations

Labubu’s collaborations have played a big part in its rise. One standout moment happened at Art Basel 2025. Kasing Lung created a special Labubu in “Basel blue” just for the event. Only 100 pieces were made. VIPs snapped up the first 30 before the fair even opened. The rest sold out quickly, drawing collectors from around the world. The exclusive doll became a viral sensation and sparked a wave of media attention.

Labubu has also teamed up with brands like Coca-Cola for limited-edition releases. These partnerships add new styles and stories to the collection. Each collaboration brings Labubu to new fans and helps shape trends in the designer toy world. The mix of emotional storytelling, exclusivity, and creative design keeps Labubu at the center of pop culture.

Labubu Today

Community

Labubu has become a true sensation in the world of collectibles. Fans line up before sunrise just to get a chance at the newest releases. Some even camp out in front of stores in cities like Bangkok and Chicago. The excitement does not stop there. Online, collectors share their latest finds, trade figures, and show off creative displays. Social media platforms, especially TikTok, buzz with unboxing videos and fan art. This digital energy helps Labubu reach new fans every day.

• K-pop star Lisa from BLACKPINK helped spark Labubu’s popularity by sharing her collection online.

• The fanbase includes Gen Z and young adults who love the mix of nostalgia and trendy design.

• Celebrity fans like Rihanna and Dua Lipa have also shown off their Labubu toys, making them even more popular.

• Blind box sales and surprise drops keep collectors coming back for more.

• Fans often trade figures and join events, building a strong and loyal community.

Collectors do not just buy toys. They create stories, swap tips, and celebrate their favorite designs together. The community’s passion keeps Labubu at the center of pop culture.

Future

Labubu’s future looks bright. Experts say the playful spirit of this character will keep inspiring collectors for years to come. The designer toy market continues to grow, and Labubu stands out as a symbol of creativity and fun. Social media trends and digital culture help Labubu stay in the spotlight. Fans can expect more limited editions, new collaborations, and even bigger events.

• Monthly livestream auctions and special releases will keep the excitement high.

• New partnerships with brands like Coca-Cola and Uniqlo will bring fresh designs.

• The secondary market remains strong, with rare figures selling for thousands of dollars.

• Experts compare Labubu’s cultural value to luxury items like Birkin bags and gold.

Labubu’s story is far from over. The community’s energy and the brand’s creative vision promise many more adventures ahead.

Labubu’s story shows how a small idea can grow into a global icon. Reports highlight its huge revenue for Pop Mart and long lines at stores around the world. Experts say Labubu’s influence reaches luxury fashion and even changes how people collect art. Fans from many countries and ages keep the excitement alive. This playful spirit brings people together and inspires creativity everywhere.

FAQ

What makes Labubu different from other toys?

Labubu stands out with its mischievous grin, sharp teeth, and furry elf look. Fans love how each Labubu doll feels unique. The Monsters series gives Labubu a special place in the world of collectibles.

Who created Labubu and why?

Kasing Lung, a Hong Kong-born artist, created Labubu in 2015. He wanted to bring his childhood imagination and love for fairy tales to life. Labubu’s playful spirit reflects his own personality and artistic vision.

How do collectors get new Labubu dolls?

Collectors often buy Labubu dolls through Pop Mart’s blind boxes or special releases. Some wait in line at stores, while others join online drops. Limited editions and collaborations make each release exciting.

Is there a story behind Labubu?

Labubu’s story comes from the Monsters series. Kasing Lung uses Labubu to share tales inspired by Nordic folklore and his own childhood. Fans can also find Labubu in a new picture book, adding more adventures.

Why do people love Labubu so much?

People connect with Labubu’s mix of mischief and kindness. The community enjoys customizing Labubu dolls and sharing their creations. Labubu brings together fans of all ages who love creativity and fun.