Labubu, a fictional toy character created by Hong Kong artist Ka-sing Ling for Pop Mart’s “The Monsters” series, has gone viral worldwide, but not without controversy.
While many adore the wide-grinned, plush toy with oversized eyes and pointed ears, others are concerned by what they describe as its eerie and “demonic” presence, urging people to avoid buying it.
Labubu was launched in 2019 and gained massive popularity in April 2024 when Blackpink singer Lisa shared photos of the toy on Instagram.
Celebrities like Kim Kardashian, Rihanna, and David Beckham followed, further boosting Labubu’s fame.
Its appeal also lies in the fact that it is sold through “blind boxes.” Customers didn’t know which version they would receive until they unbox it, leading to a strong collector culture.
Pop Mart, the company behind Labubu, was founded in 2010 in Beijing and became famous for its blind box models, especially the ‘Molly’ dolls.
Labubu helped the brand grow significantly. By 2020, Pop Mart went public, and its CEO Wang Ning saw his fortune rise to $22.7 billion.
In 2024, the company’s revenue jumped 188% to $1.8 billion, with over 2,000 vending machines in more than 30 countries.
The toy is considered affordable, with each figure priced around USD 6.95, approximately PKR 1,950 to 2,100.
Social media has also contributed to its popularity, with millions watching Labubu unboxing videos.
From Labubu to Pazuzu
But not everyone is a fan.
Online conspiracy theories began linking Labubu to Pazuzu, a fictional demon from a 2017 episode of The Simpsons.
In the episode, a creepy doll causes chaos in the Simpson household. Walter Daniels, a motivational speaker, shared a clip from the episode, suggesting similarities between Labubu and the evil figure.
Critics say both dolls share strange grins, sharp teeth, and disturbing energy.
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As rumours spread, Pop Mart US made a sarcastic Instagram post on March 31, 2024, telling people to report Labubu dolls “behaving strangely,” and joked about dolls moving or whispering.
The post ended with a dramatic warning: “Just run.”
Many laughed off the post, calling it satire, but others continue to believe the toy has a negative aura.
Despite all the noise, there is no proof that Labubu is linked to any supernatural events.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for further updates.