Labubu; a product that has taken over social media. A product that is adored by millions. A product that is confusing to millions. 

The plushies have slowly gained traction over the past six years, first blowing up when LISA from BLACKPINK was photographed with one attached to her purse in 2024. Following Lisa, Dua Lipa, Rihanna, and Kim Kardashian have all begun to promote the product as well. 

With the help from these celebrities, Labubu has been able to gain a huge following. With people from across the globe grasping to get hold on limited edition designs.  

“It’s a Tik-Tok trend. You see it on Tik-Tok, other people want it, you see somebody else with it, you want it,” Sa’Nie Wheeler (10) said. 

A major part of this trend is the opening of the blind box. A blind box can cause consumers to get pulled into the product. It creates an interaction between the company and the customers. This interaction helps to leave a lasting impression on consumers, encouraging them to seek out other owners, and to grow their own collections.

“I enjoy the blindbox experience, because you never know what you’re gonna get, so it’s a surprise,” Victoria Jenkins (12) said. 

Although Labubus have become quite popular, they are currently receiving some hate. The dolls have been compared to “Pazuzu,” an ancient demon. The accusations of the toy looking like the creature, have led to parents refusing to purchase it for their children. However, the dolls are not inspired by this creature, but by a children’s book– “The Monsters” by Kasing Lung.

Another reason Labubus are being criticized is because they are entwined with consumerism. A Labubu’s only use is to decorate a bag or a room, making them an unnecessary item to purchase. However, due to their immense popularity online, and the status symbol they are, people want to own them. 

“People view them as a heavy consumerist ideal, but I do think there are people who just like the key chain,” Sophie Stafford (12) said.