Introduction
If you’ve been on TikTok, Instagram, or even spotted celebrities on the street, you’ve probably seen a quirky little creature with rabbit-like ears, sharp teeth, and a cheeky grin. That is Labubu, the collectible toy that has become a viral sensation. But what exactly is a Labubu, and why is it suddenly everywhere? Let’s break it down.
The Origins of Labubu
Labubu was first imagined by Hong Kong illustrator Kasing Lung, who introduced it in his children’s storybook series The Monsters. The character was designed to be playful and a little mischievous—something between “cute” and “weird.” Its unusual look is exactly what makes people fall in love with it.
Why Labubu Went Viral
Although it started as an art character, Labubu became a worldwide craze when the Chinese toy brand Pop Mart launched it in blind boxes—mystery packages where buyers don’t know which figure they’ll get until they open it. This sense of surprise turned collecting into a game, fueling the hype.
The real explosion came when celebrities like BLACKPINK’s Lisa, Rihanna, Dua Lipa, and Kim Kardashian were seen with Labubu charms attached to their bags. Overnight, Labubu shifted from “cute toy” to “fashion accessory,” and the internet couldn’t stop talking about it.
What Makes Labubu Special
- Unique Design – With big ears and toothy grin, Labubu stands out from the usual cute collectibles.
- Blind-Box Thrill – People love the excitement of not knowing which design they’ll unbox.
- Celebrity Influence – Star power turned Labubu into a trend.
- Scarcity – Limited editions and rare “secret” Labubus push demand higher.
- Community Buzz – Collectors share photos, unboxings, and creative styling ideas online, making the craze go viral.
Record-Breaking Collectible
Labubu is not just fun—it’s valuable. In 2025, a human-sized Labubu figure sold at auction for more than $150,000, proving that this little monster is as much an investment as it is a toy.
The Dark Side: Fakes and Counterfeits
Like any viral trend, Labubu’s success attracted copycats. Fake versions, often called “Lafufu,” are popping up online. Many of these are poorly made and even unsafe for children. Collectors are encouraged to buy only from trusted retailers and check for authenticity codes.
Latest Trends in 2025
- Labubu as Fashion – Fans are styling Labubu with keychains, charms, and even outfits for their toys.
- Unboxing Videos – TikTok creators rack up millions of views with Labubu blind-box reveals.
- Mashups – Fans dress their Labubus with local merchandise, like the viral “Labubu in Buc-ee’s gear” trend in Texas.
Final Thoughts
So, what is a Labubu? It’s more than just a collectible—it’s a pop culture movement. With its unique design, surprise-factor blind boxes, and celebrity endorsements, Labubu has become one of the hottest trends of 2025. Whether you’re a serious collector, a casual fan, or just curious, it’s safe to say this cheeky little monster is here to stay.
