Labubu Plush Toys Take the World by Storm, Spark Controversy and Trendsetting Among Influencers
Labubu plush toys, adorable elf-like monsters created by designer Kasing Lung, have become a global phenomenon. These quirky characters are loved by children and have also become a must-have fashion accessory for many social media influencers, according to Telegrafi.
Kasing Lung, born in Hong Kong and raised in the Netherlands, developed Labubu as part of his “Monsters” series, drawing inspiration from folklore and Norse mythology. The toys were first launched in 2015, and Lung’s collaboration with Pop Mart beginning in 2019 significantly boosted their popularity among collectors.
Beyond Labubu, the “Monsters” tribe includes other characters such as Mokoko, Pato, Spooky, Tycoco, and Zimomo. These figures are typically sold in surprise blind boxes, adding an element of excitement to each purchase.
The toys gained widespread attention in April last year when Lisa from the girl group Blackpink was seen attaching one to her bag. Her endorsement sparked a fashion trend across Thailand and Southeast Asia, eventually spreading to the United States and worldwide.
The most recent collection sold out within seconds. A single surprise box retails for $27.99, while a set of six toys costs $167.94. According to Pop Mart’s August 2024 report, the company earned approximately $870 million in the first half of the year from Labubu sales.
However, the toys have also stirred controversy. A viral video shows men fighting over Labubu toys at Westfield shopping center in Stratford. Due to these incidents, Pop Mart temporarily removed the toys from 16 of its UK stores. The toys are expected to return to shelves in June.
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