Labubu has burst onto the scene as the must-have “Nordic monkey-like forest elf” keychain collectible 🐒🍃. Born in the Chinese mainland’s Pop Mart design lab, this furry “monster” blends classic Nordic folklore vibes with K-pop–style cuteness, creating a cross-cultural sensation among young collectors from Seoul to Mumbai.
Why the hype? In the latest episode of China Popcast, reporter and Labubu superfan Vica Li shares her thrill of unboxing, customizing, and styling her Labubu—think swapping outfits, adding mini accessories, and snapping cool pics for your Instagram grid. Celebrities like Rihanna, Lisa from Blackpink, and Dua Lipa have been spotted rocking theirs, turning a simple keychain into a global style statement.
Marketing meets fandom. Professor Zhang Ying from Peking University’s Guanghua School of Management breaks down the psychology behind pop-up blind boxes and limited drops. She reveals how Pop Mart founder Wang Ning and his team, once students with a taste for quirky art, are now tapping into millennials’ love for surprise, collectability, and shareable moments.
Whether you’re a die-hard collector or just curious about the next viral fad, Labubu’s charm lies in its blend of East and West, analog play and digital buzz. Ready to join the craze? 🔑✨
Reference(s):
China Popcast: Global Labubu 'monster' a blend of East and West
cgtn.com
