Have you seen those cute, fuzzy monsters with serrated teeth and pointed ears lately? They are everywhere! Whether hanging from a celebrity’s designer bag or sitting on a shelf, the Pop Mart Labubu has become a global sensation. But Labubu isn’t just a toy; it is a piece of art created by Kasing Lung. This little elf belongs to a group called “The Monsters.”
People love Labubu because it looks a bit mischievous but has a very kind heart. In 2026, the hype is even bigger than before. From limited edition drops to massive plush versions, these figures have captured the imagination of “kidults” everywhere. In this guide, we will dive deep into where Labubu came from, why everyone wants one, and how you can start your own collection without getting tricked by fakes.
The Origin Story of Kasing Lung and The Monsters
Before becoming a Pop Mart Labubu star, this character lived in the pages of children’s books. Kasing Lung, a talented artist born in Hong Kong and raised in the Netherlands, created the world of The Monsters in 2015. He was heavily inspired by Nordic fairy tales and folklore. He wanted to create creatures that felt ancient yet modern.
Labubu is actually a female elf, and she is part of a large tribe. Kasing Lung first introduced her in his “The Monsters” trilogy, which included stories like The Story of Puca. It wasn’t until Lung partnered with Pop Mart in 2019 that Labubu became a 3D collectible. This partnership turned a storybook character into a worldwide fashion icon and a must-have for collectors in every country.
Why Is Pop Mart Labubu So Popular in 2026?
You might wonder why adults are lining up for hours to buy a small plush toy. The answer lies in “Drop Culture.” Just like limited-edition sneakers, Pop Mart Labubu releases are often rare. When you buy a blind box, you don’t know which one you are getting. This makes the “unboxing” experience very exciting.
Celebrities like Lisa from Blackpink have also helped boost the fame of Pop Mart Labubu. When she posted a photo with a Labubu bag charm, the demand went through the roof! Now, in 2026, Labubu is seen as a fashion accessory. It is common to see people styling their outfits around their favorite Labubu colors. It is a way to show off your personality and join a global community of fans.
Understanding the Different Labubu Characters
While Labubu is the most famous, she is not alone. The Monsters world is full of interesting friends. Zimomo is often confused with Labubu, but he is the leader and has a long, spiked tail. Then there is Mokoko, the pink version with a heart-shaped nose that everyone chases during special releases.
Other characters include Tycoco, a shy skeleton who is actually Labubu’s boyfriend, and Spooky, a quiet snowman. Knowing these characters helps you understand the stories Kasing Lung is telling. Each figure you find in a Pop Mart Labubu box is a tiny piece of a much larger, magical world.
The Thrill of the Blind Box Experience
The magic of Pop Mart Labubu is mostly in the surprise. When you walk into a store or use a “Robo Shop” vending machine, you pick a sealed box. Inside could be a common figure or a “Secret” (chaser) figure. The odds of finding a secret Labubu are usually 1 in 72, which makes them very valuable.
For many fans, the goal is to “complete the set.” A series might have 12 different designs. Collecting them all requires trading with friends or buying more boxes. This social aspect is a huge part of the fun. It turns a simple purchase into a game that connects people from all over the world.
How to Spot a Real vs. Fake Pop Mart Labubu
Because they are so popular, many “bootleg” or fake versions have appeared online. To make sure your Pop Mart Labubu is authentic, you should check a few key things. First, look at the box. Genuine Pop Mart packaging has a matte finish and clear, crisp printing. If the box looks shiny or blurry, it might be a fake.
Second, check the teeth. A real Labubu always has exactly nine teeth! If you count more or fewer, it is definitely a counterfeit. Also, real figures have a QR code on the box that you can scan to verify them on the official Pop Mart website. Always buy from official stores or trusted sellers to keep your collection high-quality and valuable.
Popular Labubu Series to Collect Right Now
In 2026, several series have become fan favorites. The “Macaron” plush series is probably the most famous, featuring soft colors like sea salt blue and lychee berry. There is also the “Have a Seat” series, where the characters are sitting down in cute poses. These are perfect for displaying on your desk or car dashboard.
For those who like fashion, the “Time to Chill” and “Fall in Wild” collections are top choices. These often feature Labubu in different outfits or themes. Since Pop Mart Labubu releases new series every few months, there is always something fresh to look for. Collectors often keep track of “Leaked” images to see what is coming next!
Labubu as a Fashion Statement and Bag Charm
One of the biggest trends in 2026 is using Pop Mart Labubu as a bag charm. People clip the small plush versions onto their backpacks, purses, and even high-end designer bags. It adds a touch of “Whimsical Style” to a professional or casual look. It shows that you don’t take life too seriously and still enjoy a bit of fun.
Customizing your Labubu is also popular. Some fans knit tiny sweaters for their elves or add small hats. This level of creativity is what makes the Pop Mart Labubu community so special. It is not just about owning a toy; it is about making it your own and sharing your style with others on social media.
Exploring POPLAND: The Home of Labubu
Did you know there is a theme park dedicated to these characters? POPLAND in Beijing is a dream come true for fans. You can walk through the “Labubu Adventure Forest” and see life-sized versions of your favorite monsters. It is an immersive experience where the stories of Kasing Lung come to life.
Visiting the park allows you to buy exclusive Pop Mart Labubu merchandise that you can’t find anywhere else. For many collectors, a trip to POPLAND is the ultimate goal. It proves how much impact these characters have had—they have moved from small sketches to an entire physical world for fans to explore.
Helpful Tips for New Labubu Collectors
If you are just starting your Pop Mart Labubu journey, don’t feel overwhelmed. Start with one series that you really like. You don’t have to buy everything at once! Joining online groups on Facebook or Discord is a great way to learn about upcoming drops and find people to trade your “doubles” with.
Remember to keep your boxes and ID cards if you plan to sell or trade later. Collectors value “Full Sets” with all the original packaging. Most importantly, have fun with it! The joy of Pop Mart Labubu is the smile it puts on your face every time you look at that toothy grin.
Conclusion
The world of Pop Mart Labubu is full of color, mystery, and joy. Whether you are an art lover, a fashion fan, or just someone who likes cute things, there is a Labubu out there for you. These characters remind us to stay curious and kind, just like the elves in Kasing Lung’s stories.
So, are you ready to find your first monster? Head over to a Pop Mart store or check their official website to see the latest 2026 collections. Once you start, you’ll see why millions of people have fallen in love with these toothy little friends!
FAQs
1. Who created the Labubu character?
Labubu was created by Kasing Lung, a Hong Kong-born artist. He first introduced the character in 2015 as part of his “The Monsters” book series before partnering with Pop Mart.
2. How many teeth does a real Labubu have?
An authentic Pop Mart Labubu figurine or plush always has exactly nine teeth. Counting the teeth is one of the easiest ways to check if a figure is real or fake.
3. Is Labubu a boy or a girl?
According to the creator Kasing Lung, Labubu is a female elf. However, many fans view the character as gender-neutral or simply a magical creature.
4. What is a “Blind Box”?
A blind box is a type of packaging where you cannot see which specific figure is inside. It is a surprise every time you open one, which adds to the excitement of collecting.
5. Why are some Labubus so expensive?
Some figures are “Secret” or “Chaser” versions, meaning they are very rare. Because they are hard to find, collectors are often willing to pay much higher prices for them on the secondary market.
6. Where can I buy official Labubu products?
You should always buy from official Pop Mart stores, their website, or authorized retailers. This ensures you get a high-quality, authentic product and not a counterfeit.
References:
- Lung, K. (2015). The Monsters: The Story of Puca.
- Pop Mart Global. (2026). Official Collector’s Guide and Product Catalog.
- Wikipedia. (2026). Kasing Lung Biography and Artistic Works.
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