Labubu Dolls: From Blind Box Collectible Toys to Global Fashion Trends and Controversies

Liputan6.com, Jakarta Labubu Dolls, collectible fairy monster dolls that are currently making global headlines, are the creation of Hong Kong-Belgian designer Kasing Lung.

Exclusively marketed by the renowned China-based collectible toy retailer, Pop Mart, these dolls have captured the attention of millions of collectors and fans worldwide.

Their unique presence, wide smiles and distinctive fangs, coupled with their mysterious "blind box" sales method, have made them more than just toys, but also a growing pop culture icon.

Labubu Dolls' popularity has skyrocketed dramatically, transcending the boundaries of mere collectible toys and transforming into sought-after fashion accessories.

A-list celebrities like Rihanna and Dua Lipa have been spotted using Labubu as part of their style, further cementing their status in the fashion world.

This phenomenon is not limited to Western countries but has spread to various parts of the world, including Thailand, where Labubu's image has even been adapted into Buddhist amulets and sacred tattoos, demonstrating a unique cultural adaptation.

In Canada, Labubu's appeal was also significant, creating a strong trend among collectors and toy enthusiasts.

Despite their soaring popularity, Labubu Dolls have not escaped controversy.

In Iraq, the sale of these dolls has even been officially banned by authorities.

The ban was based on claims that Labubu can cause behavioral problems in children and contain 'evil spirits,' allegations that have sparked debate.

However, it's important to note that to date, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims, making this controversy more of a cultural perception than a matter of empirical fact.

One of the main attractions of Labubu Dolls lies in their investment potential, especially for limited and secret editions.

These dolls are often sold in 'blind boxes,' where buyers don't know which character they'll receive until the box is opened, adding an element of surprise and exclusivity.

Labubu prices can vary drastically, with some rare editions fetching tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars on the secondary market, such as auctions.

Limited-edition collaborations between Labubu and well-known brands like Vans, for example, have sold for thousands of dollars on platforms like eBay, demonstrating the high collectible value and the view of an appraiser who predicts this trend will endure.

Purchases can be made online through the Pop Mart platform or at Pop Mart physical stores across the country, including the new flagship store on Oxford Street, London.

Labubu Dolls have very distinctive and easily recognizable visual characteristics, a key factor in their appeal.

These dolls are known for their striking wide smiles, small fangs that add to their fairy-like "monster" look, and distinctive long, bunny-like ears.

Their diverse designs come in a variety of colors and poses, providing an appealing variety for collectors.

The combination of these elements creates a unique aesthetic, blending cuteness with a touch of mischief, making them a distinct icon in the world of collectible toys.