What is Labubu and why is it so popular?
We all know POP MART is wildly popular in Singapore, but one specific character has taken our social media feeds by storm lately: Labubu.
The adorable little monster has gone hugely viral of late, but the frenzy Labubu incites has not always been the case. OG POP MART collectors will know that the character used to be reviled as “ugly”, and that the Labubu phenomenon is fairly recent.
So, what exactly is Labubu? Why has it become so popular? Why is it a PAP mascot? And why are people putting braces on their Labubu?
We’ll answer all that and more here.
Facts about Labubu
1. Labubu is inspired by Nordic fairytales
Labubu then and now.
Source
As compared to POP MART’s more chibi, humanoid characters, Labubu stands out with its fur, serrated teeth, and mischievous expression. Its creator, the Hong Kong native Kasing Lung, was born in The Netherlands and was inspired by the weird and wonderful creatures that populate Nordic fairytales. Labubu is a monster but has the personality of an imp—always wanting to help others, but sometimes doing bad things.
Kasing has been designing Labubu since 2015, but the character only became a POP MART figurine in 2019. The figurine looks quite different from the original too!
2. BLACKPINK’s Lisa avidly collects Labubu
If you want someone to arrow for the Labubu craze, look no further than BLACKPINK’s Lisa. The star calls it her favourite toy, and has been sported carrying Labubu bag charms. Fans also gift her the figurines at meet-and-greets, so FYI if you’re looking to get Lisa something at her upcoming Singapore fanmeet.
Lisa posted an Instagram story with her Labubu plush and bag charm in April this year, and the character has only grown in popularity since
Also read:
This Singapore Dentist Will Put Braces On Your Labubu For $45
3. Labubu is part of a wider series of characters called “The Monsters”
Labubu is one of the many characters that are part of a wider series, “The Monsters”. This is a whole fantasy world created by Kasing, and all its characters take cues from Nordic folklore too.
There’s Zimomo, which closely resembles Labubu, albeit with a tail. Tycoco is an adorable skull figure. Another spooky one is, well, Spooky, who is a creepy-cute snowman. Finally, there’s Pato, a bunny-like monarch.
4. Labubu appeared at Milan Fashion Week
So prominent is the impact Labubu has that the character made its mark at Milan Fashion Week. The character, alongside Zimomo, appeared as part of the Chinese designer brand Pronounce’s runway show in January this year. The full collection was made in collaboration with POP MART, with garments that feature Labubu motifs. The same collection also resulted in plushies, which are now sold out.
5. Labubu was treated to a tour of Thailand
@manameisi Labubu in Thailand #labubu #themonsterlabubu
In July this year, a life-sized Labubu mascot was flown from China to Thailand and brought on tours of the country’s iconic landmarks. National ministers and governors were in attendance to meet Labubu at the airport for a special welcome ceremony. The character was also dressed in traditional Thai costume.
6. Labubu was brought out as an unofficial PAP mascot
@vpmlam Groceries distribution to Sengkang senior citizens at Compassvale Crescent #TeamSengkang #SengkangGRC #PAP4SG #everyvotecounts #TogetherWeCan
In a recent TikTok video by PAP Sengkang’s West Branch chairman, Lam Pin Min, a Labubu figurine decked out in the political party’s all-white uniform. The video has since gone viral, so shoutout to the Gen Z intern who thought of this idea.
All you need to know about Labubu
If you’re looking to start your very own Labubu collection, then head down to your nearest POP MART outlet. There are many series to choose from, but “The Exciting Macarons” collection is a great starting point.
Also read:
POP MART Opens Largest Store In Singapore At ION Orchard With Themed Photobooth
Cover Image: Source, Source, Source
