Labubu – the charming monster that has conquered the world of fashion and collectors
Labubu – the charming monster that has conquered the world of fashion and collectors
In the world of toys and fashion, characters emerge every so often who, despite their unassuming appearance, become pop culture icons. One such phenomenon is Labubu —a small, furry creature with a slightly mischievous smile who has captured the hearts of not only collectors but also celebrities worldwide.
Labubu's Story - From Niche Hero to Global Sensation
Labubu was born from the imagination of artists from the Japanese group Studio Second , better known by their brand Instinctoy —a company specializing in creating high-end vinyl figures. The character was designed by Kasing Lung , a Hong Kong-based artist known for combining charming motifs with a subtly dark aesthetic.
The first Labubu figures appeared in early 2010, gaining popularity through exhibitions in Asia and limited editions. Labubu's distinctive style—big ears, a wide smile, and a furry figure—immediately set him apart from other designer toy figures.
Over time, Labubu has gained cult status as a collector's item. Limited editions sell out in minutes, and some rare pieces fetch exorbitant prices at auction. Interestingly, Labubu has also been featured in collaborations with brands such as Medicom Toy and Fragment Design, which has only fueled interest.
Celebrities who love Labubu
The Labubu phenomenon has also spread to the celebrity world. Many artists, influencers, and fashion icons proudly showcase their figurine collections on Instagram and during public appearances.
Labubu's most famous fans include:
Pharrell Williams , known for his love of streetwear and pop art culture, was spotted wearing a limited-edition Labubu figurine at art events in Tokyo.
G-Dragon (Kwon Ji-yong) is a South Korean musician and leader of the group BIGBANG, who is famous for collecting unique designer toy figures, including the Labubu edition.
Billie Eilish – an artist intrigued by unconventional visual forms, who has shown Labubu miniatures several times on her Instagram as part of her room decor.
Takashi Murakami is a world-renowned artist known for his colorful aesthetic and collaborations with Louis Vuitton, who has a collection of Instinctoy figurines himself, including Labubu, and has frequently promoted them on his social media.
Why is Labubu so beloved?
The combination of a charmingly spooky aesthetic, Japanese precision craftsmanship, and limited editions make Labubu a desirable item not only for toy fans but also for those interested in fashion, design, and contemporary culture. The figurines often appear as interior design elements, styling accessories, or simply as an expression of the owner's individuality.
Summary
Labubu is more than just a toy. It's a symbol of modern collectible culture, fusing the aesthetics of art, fashion, and pop culture. If you haven't yet discovered this furry little monster, why not look for your first one? Who knows, maybe you'll become part of this unique community.