Pop Mart Toys: If you’ve been scrolling through TikTok, browsing Instagram, or chatting in online communities, chances are you’ve stumbled upon a mischievous, elf-like character with sharp teeth and a playful grin. Meet Labubu, the vinyl collectible sensation who’s captured the hearts of millions. But what exactly is Labubu, and why is she so popular? Let’s dive into her origin, rise to fame, and how to tell a real Labubu from a fake one.
Who Is Labubu?
The Truth Behind the Character
Labubu is a fictional creature that belongs to a magical collection known as “The Monsters,” created by Hong Kong artist and author Kasing Lung. Often mistaken for a boy due to her spiky hair and cheeky look, Labubu is actually a female character, confirmed by her creator and die-hard fans.
Described by Pop Mart as an “elvish creature,” Labubu may look mischievous, but she’s actually kind-hearted. Her efforts to help others often lead to unintended consequences, but her intentions are always pure.
Her Origins in Art and Literature
Labubu made her first appearance in a Nordic mythology-inspired trilogy of picture books released in 2015. The books introduced “The Monsters,” a group of whimsical, imaginative creatures. However, Labubu didn’t rise to stardom until Pop Mart, a Chinese toy giant, collaborated with Kasing Lung in 2019 to turn these characters into vinyl collectibles—a decision that changed everything.
The Monsters Universe: More Than Just Labubu
Labubu may be the star of the show, but she’s not alone. She is part of The Monsters, which features a cast of unique and colorful creatures. It’s easy to confuse her with others, especially Zimomo, the leader of the group, who sports a spiked tail. But no, Zimomo and Labubu are not romantically involved.
Labubu’s boyfriend is actually Tycoco, another adorable monster in the series. He’s a vegetarian with a skeleton-like design, adding another layer of quirky charm to the franchise.
Why Is Labubu, Pop Mart Toys So Popular?
The BLACKPINK Boost
One major reason behind Labubu’s skyrocketing fame is none other than Lisa from BLACKPINK. The global K-Pop superstar has expressed her love for Labubu through social media posts and interviews, which sent fans into a frenzy. This endorsement catapulted Labubu into global stardom, sparking massive demand and overnight queues at Pop Mart stores.
Collectible Craze and Social Media Trends
Social media played a crucial role in Labubu’s virality. Short videos, unboxing clips, and aesthetic setups of Labubu plush charms, blind boxes, and figurines flooded TikTok and Instagram, further boosting her popularity. The thrill of blind box collecting, where buyers don’t know which character they’ll get, only added to the craze.
According to NBC News, the Pop Mart Monsters series brought in over $419 million in sales last year, making it the company’s best-selling franchise.
Beware of Fakes: The Rise of the “Lafufu”
With great fame comes great imitation. Labubu’s popularity has unfortunately led to a flood of counterfeit products, commonly referred to as “Lafufu” by fans. These fakes may look convincing from a distance, but there are some reliable ways to spot the difference between a real Labubu and a fake one.
How to Identify a Real Labubu vs. a Lafufu
1. Tooth Count
A genuine Labubu has exactly nine teeth. This small but important detail is one of the easiest ways to identify an original.
2. Facial Features
Authentic Labubus have precise paintwork, especially around the eyes and blush. If the colors look faded, sloppy, or poorly placed, it’s likely a fake.
3. Stitching Quality
Look at the stitching on the forehead. Counterfeit versions often have uneven or frayed stitching, a clear sign of low-quality production.
4. Foot Stamp
Perhaps the most reliable indicator is the engraving on the feet. Real Labubus have both the Pop Mart logo and “O Kasing” (referring to the creator) stamped clearly on the soles. This hallmark is often missing or poorly imitated on fake versions.
These tips come from a professional collector and editorial projects manager at NBC Select, who has bought three verified Labubus in just three months and has a deep understanding of collectibles like Sonny Angels, Mofusand, and Peach Riot.
Where Can You Buy a Real Labubu?
To ensure authenticity, always buy from official Pop Mart stores or their licensed resellers. Avoid unofficial websites or shady deals on third-party platforms unless the seller’s reputation is verified. Prices may vary depending on rarity, but for serious collectors, authenticity is worth the cost.
Final Thoughts
Labubu is more than just a toy—she’s a symbol of imagination, childhood joy, and artistic creativity. Her rise from a picture book character to a global pop culture icon reflects the power of storytelling and community-driven fandom. Whether you’re drawn in by her quirky charm or intrigued by the world of vinyl collectibles, Labubu has certainly earned her place in the spotlight.
So, next time you see that mischievous little smile and set of nine teeth, you’ll know—you’ve met Labubu.