Who created Labubu? The artist and brand behind the iconic character

Labubu has become one of the most recognizable and beloved designer toys in the collectible world. With its mischievous grin, pointy ears, and whimsical charm, Labubu has captivated collectors and toy enthusiasts worldwide. But who is the mastermind behind this iconic character, and how did it come to life? In this article, we dive into the origins of Labubu, the artist behind it, and the brand that helped bring it to global fame.

The artist behind Labubu: Kasing Lung

The creator of Labubu is Kasing Lung, a Hong Kong-born artist known for his enchanting storytelling and surreal artistic style. Before Labubu became a global phenomenon, Kasing Lung was already recognized for his unique, dreamlike illustrations. His work often features fantastical creatures, vibrant colors, and intricate details that transport viewers into a magical world.

Kasing Lung’s artistic journey began with a passion for storytelling, heavily influenced by childhood memories, European fairy tales, and Eastern folklore. His ability to create characters with deep emotional expression and imaginative backstories set him apart in the world of designer toys. Labubu is a perfect embodiment of his signature style—quirky, playful, and rich with personality.

The birth of Labubu

Labubu first emerged as part of Kasing Lung’s "The Monsters" series, a collection of fantastical creatures that exist in a whimsical universe. The character was initially introduced in Kasing Lung’s illustrated works before making its way into the world of collectible toys.

Labubu’s defining features—its mischievous smile, wild fur, and expressive eyes—quickly made it a fan favorite. Unlike conventional designer toys that emphasize sleek, polished aesthetics, Labubu embraces a more hand-drawn, organic feel, making it stand out in the industry. Its mischievous yet lovable appearance embodies a playful trickster spirit, appealing to fans who appreciate both mystery and charm.

Pop Mart: the brand that brought Labubu to life

While Kasing Lung provided the artistic vision for Labubu, it was Pop Mart that helped bring the character to a global audience. Pop Mart, a leading brand in the designer toy industry, specializes in blind box collectibles and limited-edition art toys. The company has collaborated with numerous artists to produce high-quality figurines that appeal to both casual fans and serious collectors.

Recognizing Labubu’s unique appeal, Pop Mart partnered with Kasing Lung to produce the first Labubu blind box series. This move proved to be a game-changer, as blind boxes create an element of surprise and anticipation, driving excitement among collectors. Pop Mart’s expertise in marketing and distribution enabled Labubu to reach a massive international audience, fueling its rapid rise in popularity.

Labubu’s evolution and growing popularity

Since its debut, Labubu has evolved significantly, appearing in multiple editions, collaborations, and themed series. Some of the most notable Labubu releases include:

• Classic Labubu Series – Featuring Labubu in its original form, showcasing different colors and expressions.

• Limited Edition Collaborations – Labubu has teamed up with brands like SpongeBob SquarePants, Coca-Cola, and fashion labels, creating exclusive, highly sought-after figures.

• Seasonal and Special Themes – Holiday editions, glow-in-the-dark variants, and special metallic versions keep the character fresh and exciting for collectors.

• Labubu Plush & Accessories – Expanding beyond vinyl figurines, Labubu has inspired a range of plush toys, keychains, and lifestyle accessories.

This continuous innovation keeps fans engaged, making every new release an exciting event in the collector’s world.

Why Labubu stands out in the designer toy industry

Labubu’s success isn’t just about its charming design; it’s also about the emotional connection it creates with collectors. Here’s what makes Labubu special:

1. A unique blend of Eastern and Western influences – Kasing Lung’s art takes inspiration from European fairy tales and traditional Asian folklore, creating a universal appeal.

2. An ever-growing universe – With each new series, Labubu’s world expands, adding more depth to its story and keeping collectors invested.

3. The mystery of blind boxes – The excitement of unboxing a surprise figure adds an extra thrill to the collecting experience.

4. Limited availability – Exclusive and rare editions increase demand, making Labubu highly valuable in the resale market.
   
   

The future of Labubu

As Pop Mart continues to collaborate with Kasing Lung, Labubu’s future looks incredibly bright. The character has already crossed over into fashion, home decor, and even digital collectibles, expanding beyond traditional designer toys. With an ever-growing fanbase and more innovative releases on the horizon, Labubu is set to remain a dominant force in the world of collectible art toys.

Final thoughts

Labubu is more than just a toy—it’s an artistic expression, a collector’s passion, and a cultural phenomenon. With Kasing Lung’s vision and Pop Mart’s expertise, Labubu has secured its place as one of the most iconic and beloved figures in the designer toy scene. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering Labubu for the first time, one thing is certain: this mischievous little creature is here to stay.