How to spot an original Labubu? and not fake – MarkMeets

The Rise of the Original Labubu: From Mythical Beginnings to Global Icon in 2025

If you’ve been browsing social media or flipping through fashion magazines lately, you’ve probably encountered the unmistakable grin of the original Labubu—those quirky, mischievous plush creatures with pointed ears and a set of razor-sharp teeth. This adorable yet slightly sinister character has become a cultural phenomenon, captivating collectors, celebrities, and brands alike. But what exactly is the original Labubu, and how did it grow from a simple concept into a multi-billion-dollar empire by 2025? This in-depth exploration uncovers the origins, cultural impact, and future of the original Labubu, revealing how this charming monster has become a symbol of modern pop culture.

The Origins of the Original Labubu: A Mythical Creation Born from Childhood Imagination

The Birth of the Original Labubu in 2015

The story of the original Labubu begins in 2015 with Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung. Inspired by Nordic folklore and childhood stories, Lung created the character as part of his picture book series “The Monsters,” which introduced a host of fantastical beings rooted in myth and mischief. The original Labubu, with its pointed ears, expressive face, and mischievous grin, was designed as a benevolent imp—an elf-like creature that embodies a playful twist on ancient legends.

Lung’s creative process was deeply personal; he infused the character with childhood nostalgia, blending Nordic mythos—stories of elves, trolls, and spirits—with his own artistic sensibility. The original Labubu was meant to be both adorable and slightly mischievous, embodying the “ugly-cute” aesthetic that resonates with collectors seeking characters that are endearing yet edgy.

From Paper to Plush: The Evolution of the Original Labubu

Initially, the original Labubu was a hand-drawn character, featured in a series of illustrated books aimed at children and myth enthusiasts. However, its popularity quickly snowballed beyond the pages, inspiring a range of collectible figurines and plush toys. The early figurines, produced by Hong Kong-based toy company How2Work, captured the character’s serrated smile, pointed ears, and scruffy charm, transforming the mythical creature into a tangible collectible.

The leap from storybook to soft toy marked the beginning of the original Labubu’s journey into pop culture stardom. As the design evolved, the character’s appeal broadened, attracting not just children but also adult collectors who appreciated its whimsical yet slightly rebellious personality.

The Cultural Appeal of the Original Labubu: Why It Captivates the World in 2025

The “Ugly-Cute” Aesthetic and Its Global Resonance

What makes the original Labubu so irresistible is its “ugly-cute” aesthetic—an artful blend of imperfections and charm. It’s a monster that looks mischievous but means well, much like a cheeky sidekick in a fantasy series. Lung’s design expertly balances exaggerated features—such as the jagged teeth and pointed ears—with expressive eyes and a playful grin that evoke both humor and affection.

This aesthetic taps into a universal desire for characters that are imperfectly adorable, making the original Labubu appealing across cultures. Its design echoes the Japanese “kawaii” movement while also embracing the edgy, rebellious spirit that appeals to modern collectors.

The Cultural Impact of the Original Labubu in 2025

By 2025, the original Labubu has transcended its origins to influence fashion, art, and pop culture. Its popularity is evident in celebrity endorsements, high-end collaborations, and global resale markets. Celebrities like K-pop superstar Lisa have been seen flaunting giant versions of the plush, boosting its visibility and desirability.

In the fashion world, luxury brands like Moynat have partnered with Lung to incorporate the original Labubu into limited-edition handbags, blurring the lines between street art and haute couture. These collaborations elevate the character from toy to high fashion symbol, fueling demand among collectors and trendsetters.

The Resale Frenzy and Collectors’ Culture

The allure of the original Labubu in 2025 lies in its mystery appeal—collectors chase rare variants and limited editions, often found in blind boxes. News reports highlight record-breaking sales, including a 1.2-meter mint-green Labubu sold at auction in Beijing for $170,000. The secondary market is flooded with fakes, bootlegs, and high-priced resales, illustrating the character’s cultural significance and investment value.

The Man Behind the Monster: Kasing Lung and the Evolution of the Original Labubu

Lung’s Artistic Journey and Cultural Fusion

Kasing Lung, born in Hong Kong in 1972, spent his formative years shuttling between cultures—growing up in Hong Kong and later living in the Netherlands. His exposure to Nordic folklore, combined with his Asian heritage and contemporary art influences, inspired him to craft characters that bridge myth and modernity.

Lung’s creation of the original Labubu reflects this cultural fusion—an amalgamation of Nordic mythos and playful design. His storytelling and artistry have made the original Labubu more than just a toy; it’s a symbol of cross-cultural dialogue and imagination.

From Local Artist to Global Icon

In the early days, Lung’s original Labubu was a niche product, appreciated by a small circle of collectors and myth enthusiasts. However, as collaborations with brands like Pop Mart launched, the character’s reach expanded exponentially. By 2025, Lung’s creation has become a global icon, with a fanbase spanning Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

His ability to blend storytelling with marketing savvy has been instrumental in transforming the original Labubu from a modest storybook character into a multi-faceted commercial phenomenon.

The Commercial Boom of the Original Labubu: Market Growth and Collaborations

The Explosion of the Toy and Collectible Market in 2025

The success of the original Labubu has reshaped the collectibles industry. Pop Mart, the primary platform for its distribution, has reported that the Labubu line has contributed to billions in revenue—surpassing sales of traditional icons like Barbie and Hello Kitty.

Limited editions, rare variants, and high-profile collaborations have driven a frenzy among collectors. For example, the October 2025 Moynat collaboration, featuring Lung’s monsters on luxury handbags, exemplifies the crossover appeal of the original Labubu in high fashion.

Collaborations with Luxury Brands and High Fashion

The fusion of street art, pop culture, and luxury is exemplified in the partnership between Lung and Moynat, where the original Labubu adorns high-end bags under the LVMH umbrella. This move elevates the character from mass-market toy to a symbol of luxury and exclusivity, fueling a new wave of demand among affluent collectors and fashionistas.

The proliferation of fakes and counterfeit merchandise underscores the character’s immense commercial value, prompting brand protection efforts and legal battles.

The Mystery and Allure of the Original Labubu: Why It Continues to Captivate

The Allure of Blind Boxes and Rare Variants

One of the key drivers of the original Labubu’s popularity in 2025 is its blind-box format, which creates anticipation and exclusivity. Fans and collectors are eager to chase rare variants, often inspired by Lung’s evolving universe, adding an element of gamble and thrill to collecting.

Celebrity Endorsements and Media Buzz

Celebrities across Asia and beyond continue to endorse and showcase their Labubu collections, further amplifying its cultural cachet. Media outlets frequently feature stories on high-profile auctions and resale trends, cementing its status as a cultural avatar.

The Evolution from Page to Phenomenon: Tracing the Journey of the Original Labubu

From Storybook Beginnings to Global Collectibles

Kasing Lung’s debut of the original Labubu in his 2015 storybook series was just the start. The character’s journey took a pivotal turn when early figurines by How2Work attracted modest interest. But it was the 2019 launch of blind boxes by Pop Mart that catapulted the character into viral fame.

The 2025 Milestones: Record-Breaking Auctions and Luxury Crossovers

By 2025, the original Labubu has achieved astronomical heights. An auction in Beijing saw a 1.2-meter, mint-green Labubu fetch $170,000, underscoring its investment potential. Meanwhile, collaborations with high-end brands like Moynat have taken it beyond toys into the realm of luxury fashion.

The Resale Market and Fakes

The resale market is as unpredictable as a plot twist—fakes flood the market, yet genuine variants command premium prices. This dynamic fuels ongoing excitement and debate about authenticity and value.

What the Future Holds for the Original Labubu: Trends and Predictions

Continued Growth and Market Penetration

With sales projections surpassing $1 billion in 2025, the original Labubu’s influence is only expanding. New collaborations, international markets, and auction records are likely to keep it at the forefront of collectible culture.

Expanding into New Media and Platforms

The original Labubu’s popularity suggests potential growth in digital spaces—NFTs, virtual collectibles, and animated series could further entrench its icon status.

Challenges and Opportunities

Counterfeit products and market saturation pose challenges, but they also signal the character’s enormous popularity. Strategic brand management and legal protections will be crucial in maintaining its exclusivity and value.

Final Reflections: The Enduring Legacy of the Original Labubu

The original Labubu, born from Kasing Lung’s childhood dreams and Nordic folklore, has grown into a global cultural icon by 2025. Its journey from a modest storybook character to a multi-billion-dollar franchise exemplifies how creativity, strategic marketing, and cross-cultural appeal can transform a simple monster into a worldwide phenomenon.

As Lung continues to explore new collaborations and media formats, the future of the original Labubu remains bright. Its story reminds us that even the most mischievous monsters can capture hearts across generations, proving that playful imagination has no borders.

This comprehensive exploration aims to highlight the significance of the original Labubu—its origins, cultural impact, and future potential—offering a detailed narrative of how a whimsical creature became an emblem of modern pop culture. Whether through collectible figurines, luxury collaborations, or digital innovations, the original Labubu’s legacy is set to continue enchanting audiences for years to come.