Why Labubu Dolls Are Going Viral Worldwide

Top Reasons Why Labubu Dolls Are Going Viral Worldwide

They may be small in size, but Labubu dolls are making an outsized impact across the globe. With over 1.2 billion views, 71.4K posts on the #labubu hashtag on TikTok as of June 2025, and certain rare editions reselling for more than $1000 on eBay and StockX, these quirky, wide-eyed figures with toothy grins have become the newest obsession for collectors, influencers, and pop culture enthusiasts alike.

What started as a whimsical sketch in a Hong Kong artist’s notebook has evolved into a worldwide phenomenon powered by viral unboxing videos, influencer-driven trends, and the emotional pull of nostalgia. From TikTok trends to international toy conventions, Labubu has captured hearts with a curious blend of mischief and charm. In this in-depth guide, we uncover the magic behind Labubu’s meteoric rise, from its artistic roots to its place in the global spotlight.

Labubu Doll Origin and Brand Story

Who Created Labubu?

Labubu is the whimsical yet slightly eerie character from “The Monsters” collection, conceived by renowned illustrator Kasing Lung. Originally from Hong Kong, Kasing Lung has earned international acclaim for his distinctive art style that blends fantasy, surrealism, and childlike wonder. Trained as a traditional illustrator, Lung’s career trajectory shifted when he began to channel his emotional storytelling into characters that represent internal thoughts and emotions.

Labubu stands out with its unmistakable design, wild spiky hair, a toothy, mischievous grin, and big, expressive eyes. These features evoke both nostalgia and curiosity, giving the character a unique identity that’s instantly recognizable. Labubu is not merely a toy, it is an emotional symbol, connecting people with their inner child and emotional landscape.

“Labubu is a mirror of childhood, playful, imperfect, a little weird, but always full of imagination,” says Kasing Lung in one of his interviews.

The Story Behind The Monsters Collection

The Monsters collection was born from Kasing Lung’s imaginative mind, combining his personal memories, dreams, and the raw emotional energy of his childhood. These characters aren’t just fantastical creatures; they serve as emotional metaphors, inspired by fairy tales, folklore, and the darker elements of children’s stories.

Each figure in the series, including Labubu, reflects an emotional archetype, fear, joy, loneliness, bravery, or curiosity. Labubu is often seen as the mischievous explorer, the slightly naughty but well-meaning character who ventures into strange worlds, much like a child navigating the unknown.

This storytelling depth makes Labubu more than just a collectible figure, it’s a character-driven art form. It taps into a collective sense of nostalgia and longing, often reminding collectors of simpler, emotionally potent times.

Kasing Lung’s Artistic Vision and Global Influence

Kasing Lung’s rise to fame didn’t happen overnight. His illustrations were first showcased in European galleries and art books, but it was his collaboration with Pop Mart that transformed his vision into a tangible, global phenomenon. Lung’s ability to combine fine art sensibilities with commercial appeal allowed him to bridge the gap between designer toys and mainstream pop culture.

What sets Lung apart is the narrative depth he builds into each figure. Even without words, his characters seem to tell a story, each expression, costume, and color palette carefully chosen to reflect emotions or moments in time. Collectors are drawn to the idea that every Labubu has a hidden story, making them more than just toys; they’re emotional artifacts.

How Pop Mart Popularized Designer Toys

Pop Mart Popularized Designer Toys

The Role of Pop Mart in Mainstreaming Labubu

Pop Mart, founded in Beijing in 2010, is the company responsible for turning artist-driven designer toys like Labubu into a worldwide collectible trend. Recognizing the emotional and aesthetic appeal of characters like Labubu, Pop Mart brought them to the masses using innovative marketing techniques.

Through collaborations with independent artists like Kasing Lung, Pop Mart expanded its product line with blind box collectibles, where buyers don’t know which variation they’ll receive until they open the package. This element of surprise and scarcity turned collecting into a game of chance and desire, enhancing the emotional investment of fans.

Smart Distribution Meets High-End Presentation

Pop Mart doesn’t just sell toys, it sells experiences. Every Labubu blind box is carefully curated and designed, reflecting a premium aesthetic that appeals to both children and adult collectors. Their collaborations often result in limited edition releases, which are snatched up within minutes, sometimes seconds, of their launch.

Pop Mart has also capitalized on modern retail methods by opening flagship stores in key cities, hosting pop-up events, and even rolling out vending machines known as Roboshops across Asia. These omnichannel strategies have made Labubu accessible while still retaining an air of exclusivity.

Social Media Impact on Labubu Doll Popularity

Social Media Impact on Labubu Doll Popularity

In today’s digital world, social media is not just a communication platform, it’s a global showroom for trends, storytelling, and product discovery. For Labubu dolls, social media has served as the engine behind their viral success. From unboxing sensations to aesthetic collector content, platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube have elevated Labubu from a niche designer toy to a pop culture phenomenon.

Viral Unboxing Videos: The Blind Box Experience Goes Global

A significant portion of Labubu’s visibility stems from the unboxing culture that has exploded across YouTube and TikTok. Blind boxes are inherently suspenseful, buyers never know which version they’ll get until the moment of reveal. This tension and excitement translate perfectly into video content, where the “will I get the rare one?” factor hooks viewers from start to finish.

Unboxing videos featuring Labubu often include slow reveals, emotional reactions, and sound effects to heighten the drama. Popular creators go the extra mile, filming in aesthetic lighting and adding commentary that builds anticipation.

According to YouTube trends data, toy unboxing videos received over 30 billion views in 2024 alone, and Labubu has become a standout character within that universe.

The visual appeal of Labubu’s quirky face, expressive poses, and themed outfits make it an ideal unboxing subject, drawing both toy enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.

Influencer-Driven Trends: From Shelves to Style Statements

Beyond unboxings, influencers have played a key role in turning Labubu into a lifestyle symbol. What began as a collectible toy has now entered the aesthetic and fashion spaces, with creators using Labubu dolls to express mood, creativity, and personality.

Fashion and interior design influencers in countries like Japan, South Korea, China, and now the U.S. and Europe are styling their rooms, bookshelves, and office spaces with Labubu dolls. For many, Labubu is more than decoration, it’s an extension of their identity.

Influencers with niche interests, from kawaii culture and minimalist décor to streetwear and vintage art toys, have all found ways to incorporate Labubu into their content. As a result, Labubu now resonates with a diverse and expanding audience, ranging from Gen Z creatives to millennial collectors.

How TikTok Made Labubu Dolls Viral

How TikTok Made Labubu Dolls Viral

TikTok’s short-form, high-engagement format proved to be the perfect storm for Labubu’s viral explosion. The combination of emotional storytelling, surprise reveals, and visual aesthetics fit seamlessly into TikTok’s recommendation algorithm.

The hashtag #Labubu currently boasts over 120 million views and continues to trend, especially during new release cycles.

Popular TikTok formats include:

  • “Guess which Labubu I pulled!”
  • “My Labubu Shelf Tour”
  • “Top 5 Rare Labubu Variants”
  • “Labubu haul with ASMR unboxing”

The platform also encourages user-generated content, allowing fans to remix trends, respond to each other’s collections, and create Labubu-inspired skits or reactions. This interactive culture helps Labubu stay visible in the For You Pages of millions of users.

Many users report discovering Labubu for the first time on TikTok and becoming collectors shortly after.

Instagram & YouTube: Building a Visual Legacy

While TikTok drives viral growth, Instagram and YouTube provide depth and longevity to the Labubu craze.

Instagram: The Home of Aesthetic Labubu Photography

Labubu dolls, especially rare or seasonal editions, are visually stunning. This makes them perfect for the curated, visual-first world of Instagram. Collectors post shelfies (shelf photos), close-ups, mood-themed photo shoots, and flat lays featuring their dolls in creative settings.

Popular hashtags like #LabubuCollection, #LabubuLove, and #PopMartLabubu receive thousands of interactions weekly. Many accounts are dedicated exclusively to Labubu photography, with each post carefully styled to showcase color gradients, rare pairs, and curated themes.

YouTube: The Long-Form Playground for Superfans

On YouTube, content is more comprehensive and community-driven. Collectors post full hauls, ranking videos, rarity guides, and even storytime content, sharing how they acquired rare editions or met fellow collectors at pop-up events.

Notable formats include:

  • Labubu Unboxing Marathon, 20 Boxes!
  • Labubu Collection Tour 2025, Full Set Display
  • My Top 10 Favorite Labubu Dolls And Why!

Global Social Media Campaigns and Pop Mart’s Digital Savvy

Pop Mart, the parent company behind Labubu, has also shown tremendous skill in leveraging social platforms for strategic brand amplification. They frequently collaborate with digital creators, sponsor giveaways, and launch region-specific campaigns that celebrate cultural events through themed Labubu releases.

For example:

  • Chinese New Year Labubu campaigns involved interactive Instagram filters.
  • Halloween Labubu was launched with influencer reviews and countdowns.
  • Pop Mart Labubu World Tour featured limited-edition drops teased on social media.

These campaigns not only create excitement but also drive FOMO fear of missing out, a powerful psychological trigger that motivates both first-time buyers and seasoned collectors.

Community, Emotion, and Shareability

Perhaps the most potent reason why Labubu thrives on social media is its emotional shareability. Labubu dolls are not just cute, they’re quirky, expressive, and emotionally resonant. Each design evokes a different feeling, joy, mischief, melancholy, adventure, which makes them ideal for storytelling, memes, and emotional expression.

People tag friends in posts saying things like:

  • “This Labubu is totally me on a Monday.”
  • “This one reminds me of you during finals week!”

This emotional connection, combined with the visual punch of each figure, turns Labubu into a social object, something people naturally want to share, gift, and talk about.

Limited Edition and Rarity Factor

One of the most powerful drivers behind Labubu’s worldwide appeal is its scarcity and exclusivity. The way Pop Mart has structured the release of Labubu dolls, through limited runs, blind box formats, and strategic collaborations, has transformed them from collectibles into coveted cultural assets. For collectors and fans alike, the rarity factor turns casual interest into obsession.

The Thrill of Blind Box Culture: Mystery, Anticipation, and Addiction

Blind Box Culture

At the heart of Labubu’s collecting culture lies the blind box model, a concept that combines the psychology of surprise with the thrill of rarity. Each box contains one random figure from a themed set, but buyers have no way of knowing which one they’ve gotten until the moment of unboxing.

This model is more than just clever packaging, it’s an experience. It taps into the human love of games, suspense, and “what if” moments.

  • Secret editions are the most elusive, sometimes inserted at a rate of 1 in every 72 or even 1 in 144 boxes.
  • Some collectors spend hundreds of dollars chasing a full set, or that one elusive figure they missed.

Unboxing Labubu isn’t just about ownership; it’s about the emotional high of discovery. Whether it’s filmed for TikTok or shared among friends, that suspenseful moment when the box is opened is now a ritual in modern toy culture.

“I opened ten boxes and still didn’t get the secret edition, but I’m going back for more,” says one collector in a YouTube vlog, summing up the addictive allure.

Rare Labubu Variants and Their Value

Pop Mart strategically releases the Labubu series in limited edition waves, with each theme running for a finite period. This built-in scarcity ensures that once a set is sold out, its value in the secondary market often surges.

Some iconic and highly sought-after rare editions include:

  • “Jungle Adventure” Labubu: Featuring earth-toned textures and explorer outfits, this series captured the imagination of nature lovers and collectors alike.
  • “Christmas Labubu”: Decked out in holiday charm, this festive edition has become a prized seasonal item.
  • “Galaxy Labubu”: A celestial-themed secret edition with shimmering accents and glow-in-the-dark features.

These variants, especially secret editions and artist proofs, can command resale prices upwards of $300–$1,200, depending on rarity, condition, and popularity. Limited stock, regional exclusivity, and one-time collaborations fuel this demand.

Collectors often refer to online resale platforms like Xianyu (China), StockX, eBay, and collector communities on Discord and Reddit to track current market prices and locate rare pieces. Some buyers even engage in trading or auctions to secure the one they’re missing, adding a social and strategic layer to the hobby.

Special Collaborations Boosting Demand

Pop Mart and Kasing Lung have expanded Labubu’s reach through strategic collaborations with globally recognized brands and cultural events. These partnerships help to:

  • Expand Labubu’s presence into new markets and demographics.
  • Introduce exclusive designs that blur the lines between collectible and art object.
  • Add unique context to each figure, increasing its emotional and aesthetic value.

Notable Labubu Collaborations:

  • Sanrio Crossover: Labubu dressed as Hello Kitty or Kuromi, combining kawaii charm with edgy design. These editions were especially popular in Japan, Korea, and among Hello Kitty fans worldwide.
  • Lunar New Year Labubu: Featuring traditional Chinese motifs like dragon robes, gold accents, or lucky red colors, these versions became instant hits during the Spring Festival season.
  • Fashion Label Tie-Ins: Collaborations with streetwear brands or boutique labels have resulted in Labubu dolls styled in miniature runway looks, often promoted alongside capsule apparel drops.

These limited collaborations are usually released in extremely small quantities, either online through Pop Mart’s flash sales or in exclusive pop-up events, making them even more desirable.

“It’s not just a toy anymore, it’s wearable art in miniature form,” noted a fashion influencer showcasing a Labubu collab next to a matching jacket.

Regional Exclusives and Event-Only Releases

Another layer of rarity comes from geographic and event-specific editions. Pop Mart frequently hosts special launches at conventions, gallery exhibitions, or flagship stores in cities like Shanghai, Tokyo, Seoul, Los Angeles, and London. These editions are often stamped with event dates and unique markings, making them especially valuable among collectors.

Examples include:

  • “Labubu x Pop Mart 10th Anniversary” Edition, Available only at anniversary events.
  • “Shanghai Expo Exclusive Labubu”, Only sold at the Pop Mart World exhibition in China.

These versions are difficult to find outside of their launch regions, making them holy grails for global fans.

Labubu as an Investment: The Rise of Designer Toy Economics

Labubu as an Investmen

With the rise of designer toy investing, Labubu has entered the world of collectibles with financial value. Many buyers are no longer just fans, they’re speculative investors who track releases, monitor resale trends, and treat Labubu as part of a broader collectible portfolio.

  • Some collectors use apps or spreadsheets to manage their Labubu inventory and assess value changes over time.
  • Limited Labubu dolls are being stored in protective cases, much like rare sneakers or vintage action figures.
  • Pop Mart’s public IPO and rising share price have only added legitimacy to the idea of Labubu as a serious investment asset in the toy world.

This dual role, both as an emotional artifact and a financial instrument, gives Labubu a unique standing in the global market.

Global Collector Community and Resale Market

Labubu isn’t just a designer toy, it’s the centerpiece of a passionate, international movement. What began as a niche character has now become the crown jewel in a growing global collector economy, where limited editions, emotional storytelling, and artistic value converge to create a thriving secondary market and vibrant community ecosystem.

Rising Resale Prices: When Art Meets Investment

As demand for Labubu continues to surge and production runs remain intentionally limited, the resale market has exploded, especially for rare, secret, and collaboration editions. Collectors and resellers alike are capitalizing on the scarcity by flipping dolls for multiples of their original retail price.

  • A Labubu figure originally sold for $15–$18 USD can easily resell for $80–$300, depending on rarity and condition.
  • Secret editions or event-exclusive releases have fetched prices upward of $1,000, especially if they are unopened and boxed.

Popular platforms such as eBay, StockX, Xianyu China’s major resale app, and Mercari Japan have become marketplaces where bidding wars are common and pricing fluctuates based on demand cycles.

“It’s like the sneaker resale market but for toys,” notes one collector from Los Angeles. “You need alerts, a budget, and a bit of luck.”

Collectors often monitor social media and Discord groups to track price trends, predict drops, and make timely purchases before market spikes.

International Collector Groups: From Niche to Global Tribe

Labubu fans span continents, cultures, and age groups. What connects them is a shared love for storytelling, design, and the thrill of collecting. Enthusiasts have formed tight-knit digital communities that act as social clubs, trading platforms, and emotional support groups, all centered around the character of Labubu.

Key Collector Hubs Around the World:

  • United States: Instagram collectors and Facebook resale groups dominate the U.S. scene. Unboxers, shelf stylists, and Labubu vloggers have strong fan bases here.
  • Japan: Known for precision displays and themed dioramas, Japanese fans often blend Labubu into kawaii and minimalist aesthetics.
  • Indonesia: A fast-growing hub with passionate fans active on Shopee, Tokopedia, and regional TikTok.
  • France and Germany: European collectors emphasize artistic presentation, often mixing Labubu with urban designer toys and modern interior design.

Where These Communities Connect:

  • Discord servers: Real-time chatrooms for trades, price alerts, launch schedules, and Q&A.
  • Facebook groups: Marketplace-style setups where collectors showcase, sell, and trade their pieces.
  • WeChat channels: Especially vibrant in China, where fans organize raffles, drops, and delivery group-buys.
  • Reddit: Threads in subreddits like r/DesignerToys or r/ToyCollectors often highlight Labubu hauls and resale strategies.

Meetup Events and Toy Conventions: Where Digital Becomes Physical

Labubu fans don’t just connect online, they gather in real life to celebrate their shared passion. Across the globe, Labubu has become a featured figure at high-profile conventions and community-led meetups, reflecting its status as a collectible with deep cultural significance.

Major Events Featuring Labubu:

  • DesignerCon (USA): One of the biggest platforms for art toys, where Labubu releases often make their Western debut.
  • Wonder Festival (Japan): A key showcase for anime, model kits, and designer toys including rare Labubu collaborations.
  • Toy Soul (Hong Kong): Kasing Lung’s home turf event, often featuring Labubu exclusives and artist meet-and-greets.
  • Thailand Toy Expo: A rapidly growing market where Labubu dominates both floor displays and resale booths.

At these events, fans not only purchase exclusive editions, but also:

  • Trade figures with others
  • Pose for photos in Labubu cosplay
  • Meet artists and designers from Pop Mart
  • Attend release raffles and interactive installations

Local fan clubs also organize regional meetups in cafes, collector shops, and even libraries where Labubu is the centerpiece of discussion, display, and fun.

eBay and StockX: The Financial Engine of the Resale World

eBay and StockX

While community groups provide a grassroots space for trading and sharing, eBay and StockX have emerged as the financial pillars of Labubu’s resale economy.

eBay:

  • Offers both fixed-price and auction formats.
  • Popular for vintage Labubu figures and rare editions no longer in circulation.
  • Bidding wars often break out for secret or retired editions, especially mint-condition figures.

StockX:

  • Known for its real-time pricing, historical charts, and authenticity checks.
  • Lists Labubu under its growing art toy and collectibles section.
  • Appeals to serious collectors and investors who treat Labubu as part of a diversified collectible portfolio.

Together, these platforms allow Labubu collectors to track market value, analyze trends, and even profit, blending fandom with financial strategy.

Pop Mart Global Fans: Official Community and Brand-Driven Engagement

Pop Mart itself plays a pivotal role in sustaining the community ecosystem. Through its “Pop Mart Global Fans” group, the company has cultivated a vibrant international audience by offering exclusive perks and digital-first experiences.

What Pop Mart Offers Fans:

  • Early drop announcements and sneak peeks
  • Digital fan events with artist Q&As, behind-the-scenes videos, and release countdowns
  • Contests, raffles, and giveaways exclusive to registered fans
  • Virtual badges and collector milestones for loyal members

By blending exclusivity with access, Pop Mart ensures its global fans feel seen, valued, and part of something bigger than a transaction, they’re part of an evolving cultural movement.

Emotional & Aesthetic Appeal of Labubu Dolls

Emotional & Aesthetic Appeal of Labubu Dolls

The magnetic charm of Labubu extends far beyond its value as a collectible. While scarcity and design certainly play a role, what truly sets Labubu apart is the deep emotional and visual connection it creates with its audience. For many, Labubu isn’t just a toy, it’s a companion, a symbol of inner identity, and a portal to a nostalgic emotional world.

Labubu’s design walks a delicate and unusual line between the adorable and the eerie. Its most recognizable features, spiky hair, a toothy grin, oversized eyes, and tiny limbs, combine to form a creature that feels both familiar and strange. This juxtaposition of creepy and cute evokes powerful emotional responses. It reminds people of the monsters they imagined as children, only now, those monsters are harmless, even lovable. Labubu feels like a character pulled straight from the pages of a fairy tale, the kind that embraces imperfection and celebrates mischief, turning the idea of “cute” on its head. It’s precisely this mix of awkwardness and charm that gives Labubu its timeless, nostalgic quality.

Beyond its physical form, Labubu strikes a personal chord with collectors and fans around the world. Many fans describe forming an emotional bond with the character, seeing it as a symbolic mirror of their own inner world. Some relate to Labubu’s mischievous, outsider personality, seeing in it a reflection of their younger selves, or the parts of them that didn’t quite fit in. Others find comfort in Labubu’s ever-changing moods and expressions, which range from gleeful and confident to pensive or even slightly melancholic. These emotional nuances give Labubu depth, allowing people to project their own feelings onto the figure, much like they would with a beloved storybook character or a childhood plush toy.

The emotional connection deepens when we consider the artistry behind each Labubu variant. Created by Kasing Lung, every figure is infused with a subtle visual story. Each design carries themes, hidden symbols, and carefully chosen colors that speak volumes even without a backstory. The textures, props, costumes, and poses all work together to suggest a moment, a feeling, or a fantasy. From the forest-themed “Jungle Adventure” Labubu to festive editions like “Winter Dream” or “Midnight Masquerade,” each piece feels like a miniature narrative frozen in time. It’s not just the visual appeal that matters, but the sense that every Labubu is a character in an ongoing, emotionally rich world.

Collectors often describe displaying Labubu not just as decoration, but as an expression of self. Whether styled on a shelf, photographed in creative settings, or carried for emotional comfort, Labubu becomes a personal emblem, of playfulness, individuality, nostalgia, or even healing. For many, collecting Labubu is not about amassing things, but about curating a gallery of moods and memories. Each new edition unlocks a different feeling, a new corner of Kasing Lung’s whimsical world that somehow reflects the inner life of the collector.

In the end, Labubu’s emotional and aesthetic appeal lies in its power to connect art, memory, and feeling into a single, palm-sized figure. It’s a character that doesn’t just sit on a shelf, it speaks, silently but powerfully, to the parts of us that crave magic, mischief, and meaning.

Labubu Doll in Pop Culture & Media

Labubu, the mischievously adorable creature from the Zimomo universe by POP MART and artist Kasing Lung, has evolved from niche designer toy status into a cultural phenomenon. Its journey through pop culture and media highlights not only its artistic uniqueness but also its growing resonance with a global audience.

1. Netflix Documentaries & the Toy Movement

In recent years, streaming platforms like Netflix have shined a spotlight on the world of collectible toys through popular docuseries such as The Toys That Made Us. While Labubu hasn’t been directly featured in these shows, the broader impact is undeniable. These documentaries have fueled a new wave of curiosity around designer toys, demystifying the niche world for mainstream viewers.

By tracing the evolution of iconic toys and examining toy culture from historical and emotional angles, such media exposure has cultivated a wider appreciation for collectible figures. This ripple effect contributes to the rising visibility and legitimacy of Labubu among collectors and casual fans alike. The heightened awareness of collectible toys as art and cultural artifacts indirectly benefits Labubu’s growing reputation in the global toy scene.

2. Labubu Dolls Featured in Fashion & Lifestyle Media

Labubu’s whimsical yet eerie aesthetic has captured the imagination of fashion and lifestyle editors. Increasingly, Labubu dolls are being featured in lifestyle magazines, trend reports, and home décor blogs. These dolls are often photographed in sleek, modern interiors or paired with minimalist fashion pieces, where their quirky expressions and imaginative designs add a playful contrast.

This crossover into lifestyle media highlights how Labubu functions not just as a collectible, but also as a statement piece, blending seamlessly into contemporary aesthetics that celebrate individuality, artful living, and curated expression. These editorial placements position Labubu as a symbol of creativity and niche taste, much like designer furniture or indie fashion labels.

3. Rising Pop Culture Status: From Toy to Icon

Once known mainly within specialized toy collector communities, Labubu has stepped into the spotlight of mainstream pop culture. The character’s presence is growing in unexpected and exciting arenas:

  • Art Exhibitions: Labubu figures are now showcased in art installations and designer toy expos, often viewed as sculptural collectibles.
  • Streetwear Collaborations: Several limited-edition Labubu collections have been co-branded with streetwear or indie fashion labels, furthering its appeal among youth and fashion-forward consumers.
  • Social Media & Memes: From TikTok trends to Instagram reels, Labubu’s expressive faces and dynamic poses have turned it into a meme-worthy favorite, echoing the viral appeal of pop culture icons like Bearbrick and Funko Pop.

Labubu’s influence continues to expand, as it transitions from a niche art toy to a culturally recognizable figure embedded in contemporary art, fashion, and online culture.

4. Celebrity Collectors & Influencer Impact

A major catalyst in Labubu’s rise to prominence has been celebrity and influencer endorsement. Well-known figures, particularly across Asia, have showcased their Labubu collections on platforms like Instagram, Weibo, and YouTube. These celebrity displays often portray Labubu in luxury settings or paired with high-end fashion, instantly elevating the doll’s aspirational value.

The endorsement from public figures does more than create buzz—it validates Labubu as a desirable, collectible lifestyle item. For fans and followers, owning a Labubu doll becomes a way to align with elite taste and artistic sensibility. It bridges the gap between toy culture and luxury lifestyle, making Labubu not just a collectible, but a status symbol.

The Future of Labubu Dolls and Pop Mart’s Expansion

The Future of Labubu Dolls

As the global fascination with designer toys continues to grow, Labubu, one of Pop Mart’s most beloved characters, is emerging as more than just a collectible, it is evolving into a cultural icon. With Pop Mart’s strategic expansion beyond Asia and a steady stream of creative, forward-thinking product releases, the future of Labubu dolls looks incredibly promising. From new international markets to next-generation toy innovations, Pop Mart is crafting a bold new chapter for Labubu in both retail and pop culture.

Pop Mart’s journey toward internationalization has gained serious momentum in recent years. Originally rooted in China, the company has successfully extended its footprint into Western markets by opening flagship stores in major global cities such as Los Angeles, Paris, and London. These locations are not just retail outlets; they are immersive brand experiences that introduce new audiences to Pop Mart’s world of collectible art toys. In Los Angeles, for instance, stores in high-traffic locations like Century City have attracted both seasoned collectors and curious newcomers. Similarly, pop-up exhibitions in Paris and London have created significant buzz among European design and lifestyle communities. According to Pop Mart’s 2024 financial report, international markets now account for more than 10% of the company’s total revenue, a substantial leap from just 3% in 2021. This figure is expected to continue rising as the company strengthens its overseas presence through both physical stores and online platforms.

The localization strategy plays a vital role in Pop Mart’s global growth. While the core appeal of Labubu remains universal, its blend of mischief, innocence, and artistry, the company is tailoring its marketing strategies to resonate with regional audiences. In Western markets, this includes collaborating with local influencers, launching culturally relevant campaigns, and ensuring that in-store experiences align with local consumer behavior and aesthetic preferences. However, even as Pop Mart adapts to new markets, it maintains the distinct artistic identity of its characters like Labubu, which is key to its authenticity and success.

A critical element of sustaining Labubu’s momentum lies in the steady rollout of innovative new toy collections. Pop Mart has proven adept at keeping its offerings fresh and exciting, and Labubu continues to be at the center of that creative energy. Upcoming Labubu releases promise to push the boundaries of toy design. Among the most anticipated is a futuristic sci-fi series that reimagines Labubu in robotic armor and neon finishes, tapping into cyberpunk aesthetics and tech-forward narratives. Another forthcoming collection draws inspiration from world folklore, introducing Labubu in guises influenced by Eastern mythology, Nordic legends, and other cultural traditions, blending storytelling with visual design in a uniquely captivating way.

In a bold leap toward digital engagement, Pop Mart is also exploring augmented reality (AR) technology for future Labubu dolls. These AR-enabled figures will allow fans to interact with Labubu through smartphone apps, unlocking virtual environments, animations, and character-driven experiences. This kind of digital interactivity adds an entirely new dimension to collecting, transforming Labubu from a static figure into a hybrid of physical art and digital companion. Currently, Pop Mart releases at least four Labubu series per year, a frequency that maintains a consistent buzz in the collector community and supports strong demand in both primary and secondary markets.

Underlying all of these creative efforts is a comprehensive strategy to scale Pop Mart’s presence on a global level. With the company now publicly traded on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange stock code: 9992.HK, its resources for research, development, and market expansion have significantly increased. Strategic partnerships with international retail giants like Target in the United States, Urban Outfitters, and Selfridges in the UK are already in motion. These collaborations are designed to make Pop Mart products, including Labubu dolls, more accessible to mainstream consumers while preserving the brand’s artistic appeal.

In addition to retail distribution, Pop Mart is investing heavily in immersive brand experiences to deepen consumer engagement. Labubu-themed pop-up cafés, for example, offer fans a chance to dine, shop, and take photos in spaces fully styled around the character’s aesthetic. One such pop-up café in Shanghai attracted over 100,000 visitors in its first month alone, underscoring the power of experiential branding. Traveling exhibitions, interactive vending machines (known as Robo Shops), and regionally curated art shows all serve to embed Labubu deeper into local cultures while reinforcing its identity as both collectible and cultural statement.

Pop Mart’s financial outlook further supports the optimism surrounding Labubu’s future. The company reported $680 million USD in total revenue for 2023, marking a 24% year-over-year increase. With the global designer toy market projected to reach $59.3 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.5%, Pop Mart is well-positioned to capture a significant share of that market, anchored by flagship characters like Labubu. Company projections suggest that international sales could represent up to 30% of total revenue by 2027, demonstrating just how central global scaling has become to Pop Mart’s vision.

IN THE END

Labubu dolls are more than collectibles, they’re emotional touchstones, cultural symbols, and works of art. From their humble origins in a Hong Kong artist’s sketchbook to becoming a global sensation via Pop Mart, these quirky figures embody the power of storytelling, design, and community. Social media virality, influencer culture, and the thrill of the blind box have combined to push Labubu into global stardom, and with Pop Mart’s ambitious plans, the Labubu phenomenon is just getting started.

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious newcomer, one thing is clear: Labubu dolls are here to stay, charming, haunting, and deeply beloved by fans around the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pop Mart’s strategic push into international markets, including opening flagship stores in cities like Los Angeles, Paris, and London, has introduced Labubu to a broader audience. Combined with localized influencer marketing, interactive Robo Shops, and pop-up experiences, Labubu has transitioned from a regional favorite into a global trend, particularly among young adult collectors and lifestyle creators.

Labubu’s future releases aren't just re-skins, they incorporate storytelling, mythology, sci-fi, and even AR technology. These drops are often part of limited series, making them both emotionally resonant and financially valuable in the resale market. Collectors anticipate new series for their artistic merit, rarity, and immersive digital features that go far beyond traditional toy collecting.

Labubu dolls have transcended the realm of collectibles and entered lifestyle territory. They’re now featured in interior design spreads, fashion collaborations, and even themed cafes. For many, Labubu represents a fusion of art and lifestyle—a design object as much as a toy, making it popular among minimalists, pop culture fans, and social media-savvy consumers alike.

Labubu’s upcoming AR-enabled series is pioneering a hybrid collectible experience. Through smartphone apps, collectors can interact with their Labubu dolls in digital form, unlocking animations, stories, and even virtual environments. This gamified experience not only increases engagement but also represents the next wave in the designer toy industry, where physical and digital worlds converge.

Conner Long

Conner Long

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