It’s furry, a little creepy, and oddly cute. The Labubu doll has suddenly taken over the internet. Whether it’s in Instagram reels, TikTok hauls, or local store shelves, this strange-looking figure is hard to miss. But what exactly is Labubu, and why has it become the centre of attention around the world?
Let’s dive into the real story behind this viral toy.
What Is Labubu?
Labubu is a designer toy created by artist Kasing Lung. Produced by Chinese art toy company Pop Mart, it belongs to a fantasy-inspired series called “The Monsters”. Labubu stands out with its big grin, sharp teeth, and fuzzy body. It looks like a mix of a forest creature and a mischievous goblin. Over time, Pop Mart has released various themed versions of Labubu, from pirates and fairies to astronauts and food characters.
The toy is sold in mystery blind boxes. Buyers never know which design they’ll get, which adds to the excitement and collectability.
Why Has It Gone Viral Now?
Labubu has been popular among toy collectors in Asia for a few years. But in mid-2025, the doll exploded online. Social media platforms were flooded with videos of people unboxing Labubu figures. Some loved the toy’s weird charm. Others compared its teeth and eyes to horror movie characters. The debate only pushed Labubu further into the spotlight.
Soon, hashtags like #Labubu and #PopMartDolls were trending. People started forming long queues outside Pop Mart stores. Online resellers began charging huge premiums for rare editions.
Is There a Simpsons Connection?
A viral video claimed that Labubu had been shown in an old episode of The Simpsons. Fans were quick to point out that the cartoon has “predicted” many events before. The clip featured a toy with a similar grin and eyes, leading people to suggest the show had foreseen Labubu’s rise.
But fact-checks showed that the clip was edited. The toy in question wasn’t Labubu. The Simpsons didn’t actually feature it. Still, the rumour added fuel to the fire.
The Demon Rumours
As the doll’s popularity grew, so did speculation. Some social media users began linking Labubu to Pazuzu, a demon figure from ancient mythology, also featured in The Exorcist. They pointed to the teeth, long ears, and eerie smile as signs of hidden meaning.
Photos comparing Labubu with Pazuzu spread fast. Panic followed. Parents in some countries began asking if the toy was safe for children. Others claimed that owning the doll had brought bad luck.
However, there’s no evidence to support these claims. Pop Mart and collectors clarified that Labubu is purely fictional. It has no religious or demonic background. Fact-checkers confirmed the links to Pazuzu were just internet speculation with no basis.
How Did It Get Global?
Labubu’s reach grew thanks to digital trends and Pop Mart’s global expansion. The toy’s design fits perfectly with the social media aesthetic of “odd but cute.” Influencers began showcasing their Labubu collections. YouTubers started doing unboxing videos. Soon, even people unfamiliar with art toys wanted one.
Pop Mart now ships worldwide and has stores across Asia, Europe, and the United States. Limited edition drops, surprise elements, and eye-catching displays help keep the craze alive.
Behind the Craze: Truth and Myths
Labubu is not the first toy to go viral, but its story is unique. It mixes art, mystery, pop culture, and social media in just the right way. Its sudden rise shows how quickly a simple toy can turn into a global obsession – especially when it sparks curiosity and controversy.
The Simpsons theory was fake. The demon claims are untrue. Still, the myths gave the doll a mysterious aura that made people talk even more.
What’s Next for Labubu?
For now, the hype continues. Pop Mart plans more releases and collaborations. Labubu dolls are selling out within minutes of launch. Some editions are already being auctioned for hundreds of dollars online.
Whether you find it cute, creepy, or confusing, Labubu is more than just a toy. It’s a pop culture moment, shaped by trends, myths, and a whole lot of imagination.
