A plush pendant with a sharp smile and fluffy ears, labubu is capturing hearts worldwide. Initially part of artist Kasing Lung’s The Monsters series, this item has become a hit beyond its original audience What was once a niche item has transcended its intended audience, especially among Gen Z.
The Rise of Labubu and PopMart’s Impact
From a creative concept in Kasing Lung’s series, a mainstream cultural icon accelerated in 2019, when PopMart, a company known for creating collectible toys, launched The Monsters line, which included Labubu. The collectible line quickly became a hit among toy collectors, but until 2024 that it gained widespread fame after being spotted on the bag of BLACKPINK’s Lisa, a popular K-pop star. The sighting turned it into an even more coveted item, sending its popularity through the roof.
PopMart reported that sales for this plush surged by 5,000% in June 2025 compared to the same time in 2024. What was once a niche collectible had now become a global phenomenon, with this collectible pendants showing up on bags, backpacks, and even keychains around the world.
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Beyond Just a Plush: Labubu’s Cultural Influence
The rise of this figure isn’t just about its cuteness. Its appeal goes beyond being a simple collectible, it taps into a larger cultural moment. It has become a symbol of comfort, nostalgia, and playfulness, resonating deeply with its audience. Its rapid success has turned it into a status symbol within online communities.
People purchase this soft figure not just because they like the character, but because they want to be a part of the broader online trend. This aligns with a much larger trend in consumerism where products like Labubu are viewed as extensions of personal identity. Whether it’s for status or simply a form of self-expression.
Is Overconsumption a Concern?
While its rise has sparked joy and excitement, it has also generated concern over its environmental impact. A viral TikTok video showing a man surrounded by Labubus raised concerns about the longevity of such trends. The video struck a chord with many viewers, as it highlighted the potential short-lived nature of fads and the environmental cost of mass consumption.
Some have raised concerns about the sustainability of trends like the plush, experts suggest that the environmental footprint of owning a single one pendant is relatively small. However, the massive demand for these collectibles has led to debates surrounding the broader impact of consumer culture and fast-fashion trends.
Labubu Just Broke the Internet
The future of this stuffed toy remains uncertain, as its rise has sparked both excitement and curiosity about its long-term impact. While it has achieved viral success, the question remains whether it will transition into a mainstream cultural icon or stay a cherished item within a niche community.
As figure continues to gain popularity, its fate will likely depend on its ability to remain relevant within internet culture, where trends can evolve rapidly. Whether it becomes a lasting symbol or fades as another fleeting fad, it has already carved out its place in the ever-changing landscape of digital trends.
