Labubu: The Cute Collectible Taking Over the World

The sudden popularity of Labubu figurines has taken the world by storm. These cute collectible plushies, created by Hong Kong illustrator Kasing Lung, have amassed huge lines in Australia and beyond. "These plushies have amassed huge lines with people waiting for hours," says Czlene Villanueva, a reporter for 7NEWS Australia. The partnership with Pop Mart, known for its blind boxes, has been a significant factor in Labubu's success. The craze was further fueled by a social media post from K-pop star Lisa from Blackpink in April 2024, propelling Labubu to global fame. While Labubu's popularity has generated millions for Pop Mart, academics express concern about the environmental impact of its plastic production. Despite this, the Labubu phenomenon continues to captivate collectors worldwide, proving the power of charming design and strategic marketing.