[Video] How did Labubu become a global obsession?

25 Jul 2025
culture
Lu Lingming
Video Journalist, ThinkChina
All across the globe, “the Labubu craze” has erupted. What’s the story behind its rise? ThinkChina’s Lingming Lu gives his take on this global trend and discusses how Gen Zs like him have embraced this ugly-cute icon.
ThinkChina’s Lu Lingming gives his take on the Labubu craze.
ThinkChina’s Lu Lingming gives his take on the Labubu craze.

Designed by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung and made iconic by Chinese collectible giant Pop Mart, Labubu went from a niche Gen-Z favourite in China to a global obsession. 

In just one year, Labubu brought in over US$400 million in sales, and Pop Mart’s market value almost doubled to US$38 billion. Gen Z has started calling Labubu the best investment of 2024. The return on investment (ROI) on a single hidden edition can go as high as 2000%.

This is Lingming Lu from ThinkChina, unpacking the story behind Labubu’s rise — a global trend that began where he grew up. So, how did Labubu become a global obsession, especially among Gen Z? Watch the video to find out.