If you haven’t already heard, the newest trending collectible item, Labubus, have taken the world by storm over the past year. The keychain plush toys are an adaptation of the characters designed by artist Kasing Lung for his book series, titled “The Monsters.” They come in blind bags, so that consumers don’t know which variety they will get until they purchase and open the package. Many people have mixed opinions on Labubu’s rise in popularity.
Within our Lake Park community, East Campus world history teacher Ms. Lexie Hamilton is in favor of Labubus.
“I have one of each, including the secret, from the Exciting Macaron series, Big Into Energy series, and Have a Seat series, 5 of the Pin for Love series, Checkmate Queen, Wings of Fortune- so 28 total!” Ms. Hamilton said. Her favorite of the collections is “DuoDuo- the secret from the Have a Seat series.”
Many people, however, believe that Labubus are overhyped and some even believe that they hold bad spirits. Comparisons have been made between Labubus and a demon in ancient Mesopotamian folklore, pazuzu. Many have speculated that the Labubu toys are even designed off pazuzu because of the resemblance in appearance and anatomy between the two. This has also been theorized because of the similarity of the two names.
Whether joking or not, some people believe that Labubus are bad luck because of this. “I think they might summon bad luck,” Arely Paniagua (LP ‘28) said.
However, Lung mentions that Labubus are not supposed to be evil and are instead kind-hearted, mischievous creatures. He also confirmed that any connection between these fictional monsters and demons, like the Pazuzu, are coincidental.
Most of the hate towards Labubus comes from the question of whether they deserve to be trending or not. The prices of Labubus are harshly criticized and viewed as insane by some.
“I think Labubus are not worth the money and hype,” Arely said.
Depending on the series and rarity of them, the prices of Labubus and the blind boxes containing them usually range from $30-$100. Some collectors even pay thousands of dollars for the rarest of these creatures. For example, in July, a 4-foot Labubu figure sold for more than $170,000 in Beijing.
Labubus are such a widespread phenomenon that other companies have begun to replicate them in order to capitalize on the demand for the simultaneously creepy and cute collectible. Lafufus, or fake Labubus, also have grown in popularity. These cheaper versions of Labubus have elicited different reactions from different parties. Many are disappointed by their poor quality, while others find them to be convenient and accessible.
“I think people should buy whatever brings them joy! If that is the easiest to get or most affordable option- then go for it!” Ms. Hamilton said.
Whether you love them or loathe them, Labubus are seen across the world, hanging off bags and decorating homes. Since 2024, Labubus have been a global sensation, bringing joy to people across ages and cultures. You can’t argue that Labubus haven’t brought collectors together, connecting people around the world.
