What Is Labubu? The Viral Pop Mart Toy Explained (+ Why Fans Love It)

Labubu, known as 拉布布 (Lābùbù) in Chinese, is a globally celebrated designer toy character created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung (龙家升). Officially launched under the brand POP MART, Labubu belongs to the "The Monsters" series and has captivated fans with its "ugly-cute" charm and mischievous personality. First introduced in a 2015 illustrated book, this Nordic forest spirit-turned-icon now boasts a cult following. Below, we dive into the details of Labubu’s origins, design, and cultural footprint.

What Is Labubu?

• Labubu is a fictional creature from the "The Monsters" series, produced by POP MART.
• Genderless by design, though most characters are portrayed as female.
• Originated as a forest spirit in Kasing Lung’s 2015 book The Mysterious Buka.

Who Created Labubu?

• Designed by Kasing Lung, a Hong Kong illustrator and toy designer.
• Produced and distributed by POP MART, a leading Chinese designer toy company.

When Was Labubu Created?

Milestone	Year
Concept Debut	2015 (via illustrated book)
First Doll Release	Late 2018
Total Variants	~100 designs (as of 2023)

Where Did Labubu Originate?

• Commercialized through POP MART’s global toy ecosystem, originating in China.

What Does Labubu Look Like?

• Iconic Features: Pointed ears, nine jagged teeth, squinting eyes, and a sly grin.
• Personality: Playful, unpredictable, and cheeky—subverting traditional "cute" doll stereotypes.

What Are Labubu Dolls?

• Labubu is a fictional creature from the "The Monsters" series, produced by POP MART.

Why Is Labubu So Popular?

Factor	Impact
"Ugly-Cute" Aesthetic	Stands out in a market saturated with traditionally cute toys
Collectibility	Limited editions and rare variants drive hype
Cultural Resonance	Blends art, folklore, and modern pop culture

What Does "Labubu" Mean?

• The name has no direct translation—it’s a playful invention by Kasing Lung.
• Spanish-speaking fans often ask "¿Qué significa Labubu?"—highlighting its enigmatic appeal.

Labubu’s rise from a niche book character to a global toy phenomenon reflects its unique blend of whimsy and subversive charm. With its jagged grin and rebellious spirit, Labubu isn’t just a doll—it’s a celebration of individuality, proving that beauty lies in embracing the unconventional.