The Labubu Craze: Why Are People Obsessed with These Monster Dolls?
For generations, doll crazes have captivated collectors and casual consumers alike. From the Cabbage Patch Kids of the 80s to the Beanie Babies and Tickle Me Elmos of the 90s, the allure of owning a popular doll is undeniable. Now, a new contender has entered the arena: the Labubu doll from Pop Mart. But unlike the cute and cuddly dolls of the past, Labubu boasts a unique, almost unsettling appearance, prompting the question: why are people so obsessed with this monster doll?
The Labubu doll, a creation of Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, is a far cry from traditional dolls. Imagine a child-like figure with a disproportionately large head, sharp teeth, and wide, expressive eyes, all clad in fuzzy footy pajamas. The aesthetic is undeniably peculiar, and reactions are mixed, ranging from outright aversion to delighted adoration. Yet, despite its unconventional appearance, Labubu has become a viral sensation, igniting a frenzy among collectors and doll enthusiasts worldwide.
The history of Labubu dates back about a decade when Kasing Lung, inspired by Nordic mythology, created a series of picture books featuring a fairy world populated by both benevolent and malevolent characters. These characters, collectively known as "The Monsters," quickly gained a following, with Labubu, a small monster with distinctive pointed ears and serrated teeth, emerging as the most popular. Despite her monstrous appearance, Labubu is portrayed as a kind-hearted character who constantly strives to help others, albeit with often disastrous results.
The popularity of Lung’s "The Monsters" series led to a collaboration with Beijing-based toy-maker Pop Mart, who transformed the characters into a line of collectible dolls. These dolls, ranging from toddler-sized plushies priced between $85 and $289 to smaller keychains and plastic figures sold in blind boxes for around $16, have become highly sought after.
The Labubu craze reached fever pitch over the past year, fueled by endorsements from influencers and celebrities who proudly display Labubu keychains on their designer bags. This exposure has led to a surge in demand, with most of "The Monsters" merchandise consistently sold out on Pop Mart’s website.
The scarcity and popularity of Labubu have created a secondary market, with some dolls fetching exorbitant prices online. The fervor surrounding Labubu has even led to chaotic scenes, with people lining up overnight outside malls and engaging in physical altercations in an attempt to secure the coveted dolls. The LA Times reported on the intense competition and the instant sell-out situations.
So, what is it about Labubu that has captured the hearts (and wallets) of so many?
One key factor is the element of surprise inherent in blind box collecting. As Emily Brough, Head of Licensing for Pop Mart North America, explained, the blind box concept is akin to gambling, offering the thrill of uncertainty coupled with the guaranteed reward of a toy. Each blind box contains a random figure from the Labubu collection, with some figures being rarer than others. This rarity factor significantly increases their value, driving collectors to pay premium prices online to complete their sets.
The blind box phenomenon is not unique to Labubu. The popularity of blind boxes has exploded in recent years, with brands like Five Below and Target offering a wide variety of collectible figures from various franchises, including popular anime and cartoon characters. The appeal lies in the thrill of the unknown and the potential for acquiring a valuable or rare item.
Beyond the blind box allure, the unique design of Labubu also plays a significant role in its popularity. While some may find the doll’s appearance unsettling, others are drawn to its unconventional charm. The combination of cute and creepy creates a distinctive aesthetic that resonates with a particular niche of collectors. The "so ugly it’s cute" sentiment is a common refrain among Labubu enthusiasts.
The social media phenomenon surrounding Labubu has also contributed to its viral success. Videos on TikTok and Instagram showcase collectors proudly displaying their Labubu dolls, often adorned with padlocks and encased in protective plastic shells to prevent theft, damage, or dirt. This creates a sense of community and fuels the desire to own and showcase these coveted dolls.
The popularity of Labubu has, unfortunately, attracted counterfeiters looking to capitalize on the demand. Numerous knockoffs have flooded the market, making it crucial for buyers to exercise caution and purchase Labubu dolls only from reputable sources. Pop Mart recommends purchasing directly from their website, Amazon store, major retailers, or their verified TikTok accounts to ensure authenticity.
In conclusion, the Labubu craze is a confluence of several factors: the enduring appeal of doll collecting, the thrill of blind box surprises, the unique and somewhat controversial design of the doll, and the power of social media. Whether you find Labubu adorable, repulsive, or simply intriguing, there’s no denying its impact on the world of collectible toys. This "monster doll" has undoubtedly captured the zeitgeist, proving that sometimes, the most unlikely creations can become the biggest sensations. It serves as a reminder that trends can emerge from unexpected places, blending artistic expression, collectibility, and the unique allure of the unconventional.
