The Labubu doll phenomenon is sweeping across the globe, drawing enthusiastic crowds eager to get their hands on the latest collectibles. Early Friday morning, at around 4:45 a.m., a group of hundreds lined up outside the Pop Mart store in Los Angeles, some of them arriving with camping chairs, snacks, and drinks. Among the shoppers, Korin Reese arrived thinking she was early but was surprised to see fans who had queued since 10 p.m. the night before.
These patrons were there for Labubu dolls, the newest key-ring collectibles from Pop Mart, a popular Chinese retailer known for its unique character designs. Labubu forms part of a playful group called The Monsters, whose fuzzy figures feature impish grins and playful antics. Emily Brough, head of licensing at Pop Mart North America, described these characters as "well-intentioned" beings that cause trouble only in their quest to spread joy.
Originally conceptualized in 2015 by Kasing Lung—a Hong Kong-born artist—Labubu began its life as characters in a children's book. In 2019, Lung partnered with Pop Mart to transform these whimsical elves into collectible designer toys. The first series was released in October 2023 and was an instant hit, selling out within minutes.
Labubu dolls retail at around $30 each, with some limited editions fetching higher prices. The dolls have created an engaged community where fans share tips on how to snag the latest offerings and even showcase their unique stylistic combinations with high-end fashion. As the popularity of Labubu dolls continues to rise, they are not just toys but fashion statements embraced by enthusiasts of all ages.
These patrons were there for Labubu dolls, the newest key-ring collectibles from Pop Mart, a popular Chinese retailer known for its unique character designs. Labubu forms part of a playful group called The Monsters, whose fuzzy figures feature impish grins and playful antics. Emily Brough, head of licensing at Pop Mart North America, described these characters as "well-intentioned" beings that cause trouble only in their quest to spread joy.
Originally conceptualized in 2015 by Kasing Lung—a Hong Kong-born artist—Labubu began its life as characters in a children's book. In 2019, Lung partnered with Pop Mart to transform these whimsical elves into collectible designer toys. The first series was released in October 2023 and was an instant hit, selling out within minutes.
Labubu dolls retail at around $30 each, with some limited editions fetching higher prices. The dolls have created an engaged community where fans share tips on how to snag the latest offerings and even showcase their unique stylistic combinations with high-end fashion. As the popularity of Labubu dolls continues to rise, they are not just toys but fashion statements embraced by enthusiasts of all ages.
