Not every toy with a snaggle-toothed grin becomes a global collectible icon. But Labubu did—and did it with flair. If you’re wondering how this little mischief-maker climbed to the top of Pop Mart’s lineup, here’s the story about Labubu from sketchbook to stardom.
🎨 2010s: Labubu’s Humble Beginnings
Labubu started as a character in Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung’s personal artbook, The Monsters. Back then, it was just one of many quirky beings in his hand-drawn universe. No mass production, no hype—just an imaginative sketch of a forest creature with huge eyes, messy hair, and a cheeky grin.
🤝 2016–2017: Pop Mart Collaboration Begins
Pop Mart took notice of Lung’s distinctive work and reached out for collaboration. That’s when Labubu made the jump from art print to 3D vinyl. It debuted as part of The Monsters blind box series—a bold move for a brand known for its cuter figures like Molly and Dimoo.
Spoiler: It worked. Big time.
📦 2018–2019: Mystery Boxes + Viral Growth
What really launched Labubu into the spotlight was Pop Mart’s blind box model. You never knew which design you’d get, and fans loved the thrill of the hunt. Limited editions, seasonal themes, and clever costume variations (pirate, astronaut, fairy tale—you name it) kept interest sky-high. But the rise in popularity also causes issues like fake products flooding the market.
Soon, unboxing videos, collector hauls, and Labubu-themed hashtags exploded on social platforms like Xiaohongshu, Instagram, and TikTok. Together with reviews and guides on how to spot fake Labubu.
🌎 2020–2022: Going Global
Pop Mart’s global expansion brought Labubu to new audiences. Whether it was LA Comic Con or flagship stores in Southeast Asia, fans lined up for new releases. Collaborations with designers and exclusive drops (like glow-in-the-dark editions or regional exclusives) only fueled the fire.
What made Labubu stand out? It was weird—but in a good way. It wasn’t trying to be traditionally cute. It had edge, humor, and personality.
🛑 2023 Onward: Icon Status + Copycat Surge
By now, Labubu is one of Pop Mart’s best-known mascots. The V1 to V3 series became collector staples. But with that fame came challenges: counterfeits flooded online marketplaces, and prices for rare figures skyrocketed.
Even so, fans remain loyal. New Labubu series continue to sell out quickly, and forums are buzzing with trade requests and wishlist posts.
Final Word
Labubu didn’t become a Pop Mart icon overnight. It took art, risk, community, and a whole lot of weird charm. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a long-time Labubu lover, one thing’s for sure—this little monster has made its mark.