In 2015, Labubu, inspired by Nordic forest sprites, entered the trendy toy scene with a "mischievous" look. Its early "quirky" appeal remained niche until 2018, when image upgrades transformed it into a "cute-odd" icon, steadily growing its fanbase.

2024 was a breakthrough year. A celebrity’s social media post ignited a Southeast Asian buying spree, soon followed by global stars showcasing Labubu. The TikTok trend #MyBagWithLabubu hit over 100 million views. Innovative designs like vinyl-plush hybrids and customizable features deepened its connection with fans.

Global expansion fueled its success. By integrating local cultures in different markets, Labubu became a cultural ambassador for Chinese trendy toys. In 2025, its new series topped the U.S. App Store shopping chart, with overseas queues and inflated resale prices confirming its global stardom.

Labubu’s story proves that Chinese original IPs can transcend borders, connecting with youth worldwide and paving the way for more cultural icons.