For those immersed in the world of art toys, Labubu has likely already captured your attention. But for those just hearing the name, Labubu is a whimsical character with an unmistakable wide grin and quirky personality that has won the hearts of collectors around the world.
What is Labubu?
Labubu is a collectible art toy that stands out for its mischievous charm. The character features a distinct, playful appearance, often depicted with large, pointed ears, a mischievous smile, and a variety of costumes and personas that reflect its quirky nature. Each version of Labubu tells a different story, and its uniqueness lies in how these stories are captured through the intricate details of each toy.
Who Created Labubu?
The brain behind Labubu is Kasing Lung, a Hong Kong-based artist and designer who has long been celebrated in the art toy scene. Lung was inspired by various childhood influences, including The Smurfs, the beloved little blue creatures known for their distinct personalities and magical world. Like the Smurfs, Labubu was designed to be mischievous yet endearing, reflecting Kasing’s desire to bring out a playful, imaginative side in his artwork.
Kasing Lung’s ability to channel childhood nostalgia with modern, edgy designs helped Labubu stand out. The character initially appeared in Kasing’s comic books, but its transition into the world of collectible figures has taken its popularity to new heights.
The Rise of Labubu’s Popularity
While Labubu was created years ago, its popularity exploded around 2016 when it became a centerpiece in Pop Mart’s “The Monsters” blind box series. Blind boxes, where the toy inside is a surprise, have become a sensation globally, driving collectors to buy multiple boxes to complete a set. Labubu’s growing presence in these collections sparked a wave of excitement, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region.
Labubu gained major traction in China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, thanks to collaborations with Pop Mart. The whimsical designs, coupled with the thrill of collecting, fueled the craze. Soon, art toy enthusiasts across Japan, South Korea, and even Western markets started recognizing Labubu as an iconic figure in the collectible toy scene.
In Southeast Asia, Labubu has also gained popularity in Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore, where art toy culture is on the rise. Collectors in these countries are drawn to the unique designs and the excitement of collecting through blind boxes, making Labubu one of the most sought-after characters in the region. Toy Conventions and Pop Mart stores in these areas have only further solidified Labubu’s place as a fan favorite.
Lisa from BLACKPINK’s Influence on Labubu’s Fame
One of the major catalysts in Labubu’s skyrocketing fame is Lisa from BLACKPINK, who has been seen collecting and promoting Labubu figures on her social media. BLACKPINK’s global reach as one of the most influential K-pop groups has naturally exposed Labubu to a wider audience. Lisa’s posts featuring her Labubu collection have caused an influx of attention from her fans, known as Blinks, who are eager to engage with anything their idol shows interest in.
This endorsement from Lisa not only solidified Labubu’s appeal within the K-pop community but also broadened its appeal to international collectors who follow the trends set by popular celebrities. Lisa’s massive following has made Labubu a sought-after item, especially in South Korea, Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore, where K-pop and art toys intersect.
Where to Buy Original Labubu in Malaysia
Pop Mart Official Store on Lazada
Pop Mart has an official presence on Lazada Malaysia. They offer a range of Labubu figures and other collectibles from the “The Monsters” series. Buying through their official stores ensures authenticity and access to exclusive releases.
Toypanic
Toypanic is a Malaysian online retailer that specializes in collectible toys, including Labubu figures. They offer a variety of designer toys, and their website frequently updates with the latest Pop Mart releases.
These platforms are reliable options for purchasing Labubu in Malaysia, with Pop Mart’s official stores being the safest choice for authenticity.
How Long Will Labubu’s Popularity Last?
Art toys, especially in the form of blind boxes, have a strong fanbase, but their popularity often ebbs and flows. Labubu’s playful and imaginative designs have created a dedicated following, but as with many collectibles, the character’s long-term success will depend on Kasing Lung’s ability to innovate and keep the designs fresh. Given its strong backing by Pop Mart and the continuously growing global interest in art toys, Labubu has the potential to remain a beloved figure for years to come.
The current trend might reach its peak within the next few months to a year as new characters and toy lines emerge. However, ongoing collaborations and special editions could sustain collector interest. Thanks to Lisa’s influence, Labubu could remain in the spotlight for K-pop and art toy fans for a while longer. That said, its visibility will likely follow her popularity, as she has played a significant role in bringing it to its current height.
Labubu’s journey from comic character to collectible art toy has been meteoric. With its growing fanbase, clever designs, and the backing of Pop Mart, this quirky character is set to remain a prominent figure in the art toy community for now. And with Lisa from BLACKPINK’s love for the character, Labubu’s fandom shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon.
