The newest episode of China Popcast dives into the rise of Labubu, the "Nordic monkey-like forest elf" keychain that's captured hearts from Shanghai to LA. Once a niche accessory, Labubu has exploded online, worn by celebrities like Rihanna, Lisa from Blackpink and Dua Lipa.
Reporter and collector Vica Li shares her journey—from spotting her first Labubu capsule toy to customizing its furry features with tiny hats and scarves. "There's an almost magical thrill in opening a blind box," Li says, highlighting how Pop Mart's design taps into our love of surprise and personalization.
We also hear from Professor Zhang Ying of Peking University's Guanghua School of Management, who studies consumer behavior in emerging pop culture markets. Zhang recalls Pop Mart founder Wang Ning and his classmates as curious innovators, always sketching new characters and testing ideas in dorm rooms. That spirit, she explains, laid the groundwork for Labubu's unique blend of East and West.
With global social media buzzing and fan art flooding platforms, Labubu has become more than just a toy—it's a cultural bridge, a story of how a small accessory can spark a worldwide conversation about fandom, design and community.
Reference(s):
China Popcast: Global Labubu 'monster' a blend of East and West
cgtn.com
