“This whimsical art toy has captivated collectors worldwide and is now making waves in the fashion scene—especially after BLACKPINK’s Lisa joined the craze”
Take a stroll through any art toy collectors’ group, and you’ll find “LABUBU” is the buzzword on everyone’s lips. This playful character became even more sought-after when Lisa of BLACKPINK shared a photo of herself with LABUBU’s Macaron collection on her Instagram story. Following this, the toy’s value skyrocketed online, with fans going to great lengths—even bidding wars—to get their hands on one, just like their idol.
LABUBU is a mischievous bunny-like monster with long ears, sharp teeth, large eyes, and a cheeky grin. Its irresistibly cute design has charmed everyone who encounters it. But there’s more to LABUBU than meets the eye—let’s delve into the fascinating backstory and the many versions of this unique character that fans might not know.
LABUBU is a creation of Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, inspired by Nordic fairy tales, and is part of the Monster Kingdom universe. Though it might look like a rabbit, LABUBU is actually an impish creature with a playful nature, a kind heart, and a love for helping others. Originally, LABUBU had a slim figure with a slender face and high cheekbones. This was the design Kasing Lung first collaborated on with How2work before he signed with Pop Mart. Later, the character was reimagined with a chubbier face, quickly becoming a fan favorite.
LABUBU is not alone in the Monster Kingdom; it has a group of quirky friends, including Tycoco—a cute skull-headed figure and LABUBU’s boyfriend, Spooky—a justice-loving night creature, and Pato El—imaginative bunny-like beings. This collection has steadily gained fame, winning the hearts of fans around the world.
As the trend of accessorizing bags with charms grew, these adorable toys found a new purpose as fashion accessories. LABUBU keychains, in particular, became a must-have, especially among fashion enthusiasts. Celebrities and style icons alike have been swept up in the LABUBU craze, using these toys as charming additions to their favorite bags. What began as a collectible has now become a prominent trend, spreading not just within a country but across borders.
LABUBU made its high-fashion debut alongside Simomo at Milan Men’s Fashion Week in early 2024, appearing front row at Pronounce’s Fall-Winter collection. Both characters wore custom-designed cardigans with rope patterns, stealing the spotlight and bringing the art toy world to life in a way that had never been seen before.
In the end, LABUBU is more than just a toy—it’s a fashion statement, a collectible, and a piece of art that continues to inspire creativity and spark joy in fans around the globe.
