The Origins of Labubu: How a Quirky Monster Became a Collectible Legend
If you’ve been drawn to the quirky charm of Labubu, you’re not alone. With its wild hair, long ears, toothy grin, and unforgettable expressions, Labubu has become a standout figure in the world of designer collectibles. But what’s the story behind this mischievous little monster, and how did it rise to pop culture fame?
In this post, we explore Labubu’s origins, the artist behind the character, and how it became one of the most sought-after collectibles available today.
The Origins of Labubu
Labubu was created by Kasing Lung, a Hong Kong-based illustrator and visual storyteller. Known for blending childlike wonder with darker fairytale tones, Lung introduced Labubu as part of his broader “The Monsters” universe—a series of characters that capture emotion, curiosity, and strangeness all at once.
Labubu started out in his illustrated works before making the leap into three-dimensional collectibles. Its mix of innocence and mischief resonated with fans immediately, and soon, Labubu would take on a new form that would elevate it into a global toy icon.
Meet the Artist: Kasing Lung
Kasing Lung began his creative career as an illustrator for children's books, where he developed a signature style—detailed ink lines, textured shading, and hauntingly expressive characters. His work often walked the line between whimsical and eerie, with Labubu emerging as a central figure that reflected the untamed spirit of childhood imagination.
Labubu quickly became a fan favorite not only because of its design, but also because it felt like a character born from personal memory—something strange, yet oddly familiar.
Labubu and Pop Mart: From Drawing Board to Global Collectible
The turning point for Labubu came when Pop Mart, one of the world’s leading designer toy brands, partnered with Kasing Lung to bring Labubu into the world of vinyl art toys.
What followed was a wave of collectible releases, from classic Labubu designs to thematic series like:
Each figure features Labubu in a unique costume or concept, and the blind box format has only added to its appeal by making collecting feel like a game.
A Global Phenomenon
Today, Labubu is more than just a toy—it’s a cultural symbol. Fans around the world share unboxing videos, display photos, and full-set showcases on social media. From collectors in Europe and the UK to fans across Asia and North America, Labubu's community continues to grow.
The character’s success has even led to collaborations beyond vinyl figures, including clothing, accessories, and featured appearances at exhibitions and art fairs.
Why Labubu Has Captivated Collectors
Labubu’s popularity can be attributed to a few key factors:
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Distinctive and expressive design
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Frequent limited-edition and seasonal releases
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Crossover appeal in art, design, and fashion
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A sense of nostalgia and personality in every figure
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Community-driven collecting culture
Every new series brings a fresh interpretation of the character, and many fans aim to collect full sets or discover secret and rare editions hidden in blind boxes.
Explore our current range of collectibles:
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Starting Your Collection
If you're ready to begin your Labubu journey, we recommend exploring our most popular collections:
With bundle discounts and free worldwide shipping, it’s never been easier to grow your Labubu collection.
Final Thoughts
Labubu isn’t just a collectible—it’s a character that represents imagination, creativity, and playfulness. From its artistic origins to its ever-growing fanbase, Labubu continues to evolve with each release, captivating collectors across generations and cultures.
Whether you're discovering Labubu for the first time or adding to a growing collection, every figure tells a story—and no two are ever quite the same.
Start your collection today:
➡️ Browse the Full Labubu Collection