Labubus attracts the world with a naughty fantasy that makes plush wallets a must-have collector toy. If you’re a Jim Henson fan (think maze and Dark crystal) or grow up Where are the wild things Use a little Donnie Darko’s Frank rabbits, you will find them irresistible.
Much like the lucky spirit Inspired forest folk customs themLabubus is everywhere, but if you want to buy one, it’s hard to find. Pop Mart distributes artist Kasing Lung’s beloved character in the form of a vinyl and plush collection, which unleashes the instantly sold-out drip. Cute toy collectors often have to resellers with a steep mark of $20-30 than the keychain usually buys, while the elusive variants usually cost hundreds of dollars.
While the Pop Hall encourages fans to shop in official stores, many fell into the trap of Rafvs – Faux Labubus, many of whom looked so cursed, had their eyes dropped or their bare skin, and they also won their cults.
The series called Labubu continues to gain global recognition through its popularity in the Internet’s fantasy Cottagecore space. Labubu is a breakthrough species for monster crew members. The main character was also named Labubu and became an outstanding figure in the group due to her extreme ugly quality that caused her to be viral.
Other characters in Labubu’s Smurf tribe include the rare pink Mokoko and Labubu leader Zimomo (with tails), who also have their own followers. Toy collectors love them, including celebrities like Blackpink’s Lisa (White Lotus),,,,, What we do in the shadows‘Harvey Guillén, and Internet LadyEmma Roberts.
IO9’s conversation with Labubu Figue Creator Kasing Lung, conducted via email, delves into how Nordic supernatural folklore can inspire vague elves. Another – oneOur own fans, often waking up all night trying to meet the formal Labubu on the Pop Hall app, are excited to explore with Lung why he thinks the monster is fascinating.
Sabina Graves of IO9: I have read that monster creation is inspired by your time in the Netherlands when you were young. How did this experience inspire the idea of monster storybooks, and how did this turn them into physical art forms?
Cassin Lung: That’s right – Labubu originated from my obsession with Nordic myths and European folklore, I was surrounded when I grew up in the Netherlands. I have always been attracted to creatures living in the space between fantasy and reality, both familiar and mysterious. I want to create a character that embodies this duality: a naughty and cute, strange and profound human. Like all characters in the Monster Universe, Labubu has emotional depth that makes her feel alive. When I worked with Pop Mart, I was able to bring this imagination into the physical world, transferring Labubu from the characters in the storybook to something people can collect, connect with and build their own.
IO9: What makes Pop Mart the ideal collaborator to share monsters with the world? Are you a part of the growth of collector culture? If so, what toys did you collect?
lung: Pop Mart’s philosophy of design prospects makes them ideal collaborators for any artist. They prioritize artistic integrity and allow creators like me to develop their roles freely without compromise. This kind of trust is rare. This means that each number is true to its roots (from concept to the ultimate collectible), and that collectors can feel the authenticity in each work.
As for the collection, yes – I’ve always been interested in that world. Whether it’s action characters, miniature creatures or things with unexpected personalities, I’m attracted to the toys that inspire my imagination. I think my obsession with my little, expressive objects is with me. These monsters are really just an adult extension of that childlike miracle.
[TK unboxing IG reel link]
IO9: I would love to know that your work is starting to appear in many places around the world, even on fashion and music icons like Lisa. How do you think of monsters as the current fashion craze?
lung: From dedicated collectors to global idols, fans around the world embraced Rabub, which is surreal humility. When I first started drawing Labubu sketches, I didn’t think about fame or fashion trends. I was just following a feeling and creating something that was real to me. So now seeing people line up to drop, customize collections and make Labubu a part of everyday life – it’s the best way to go.
What happens in fashion feels like a natural evolution. Today, people want to wear their personality, show the world their identity, the identity they collect and wear. Labubu talks about a desire for some interesting, expressive and a little rebellious. The fact that monsters become part of this cultural language means the world to me. It prompted me to expand the universe, continue to create characters that surprise people, and give them something they can connect with.
IO9: What plans do you have to continue to expand the story of monster characters and the scope of digital releases? Do you have any collaborations and projects related to them to share that can open their stories to more fans around the world?
lung: Now, I let the monster story develop naturally. These characters are always growing in my mind, and each new character is an opportunity to explore different aspects of the world. I never want to force them in direction- more about following the emotions behind them and letting that guide the creative process. There are certainly exciting projects when it comes to collaboration. Recently, we have piece For Monster× piece Series numbers. While I can’t reveal much yet, I’m always looking for opportunities to expand monsters into new mediums and formats so fans can experience them in a deeper, more immersive way.
To view Pop Mart’s selection of monster blind box products and collaborations, visit the retailer’s official website.
Want more IO9 news? See when you can expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars and Star Trek releases, the next step in the DC Universe on movies and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Who Doctor.
