When pop-up alerts flashed across social feeds, Labubu fans sprang into action. In Beijing and Guangzhou, queues formed days before Pop Mart’s latest Labubu pop-ups opened, and limited-edition goblin-inspired figurines vanished in hours.
Labubu’s whimsical design and expressive features have turned this little goblin into a collectible must-have. Fans share unboxing videos, resale highlights and custom fan art online, creating a buzz that ripples from street markets to global forums.
Behind the scenes, Pop Mart blends digital drops with offline experiences to fuel its global rise. Online platforms connect to international audiences, while pop-ups offer immersive brand moments. This hybrid approach is fast becoming a blueprint for toy startups and creative businesses worldwide.
The Labubu frenzy also underscores a larger shift: designers from the Chinese mainland are exporting pop culture globally. From e-commerce launches to flagship stores abroad, these brands showcase fresh creativity and build new cultural bridges. For digital nomads and travelers, chasing ephemeral pop-ups has become a passport to local discovery.
As each limited release sells out, one thing is clear: Labubu is more than a tabletop toy—it’s a cultural ambassador. For entrepreneurs, creators and collectors everywhere, the Labubu phenomenon offers a front-row seat to the power of smart design, social engagement and cross-border appeal.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
