On Labubu and the Hyperreal
Labubu, a plush toy created by Kasing Lung, has gained popularity since its acquisition by POP MART in 2019. The toy resonates with younger generations, particularly in the context of post-pandemic nostalgia and social isolation. Labubu serves as a comforting companion for many, reflecting broader cultural trends and the desire for connection in a fragmented world.
- ▪Labubu was created in 2015 and became popular after POP MART acquired the rights in 2019.
- ▪The toy's appeal is linked to feelings of nostalgia and the social isolation experienced during the pandemic.
- ▪Labubu is part of a larger trend where adults embrace plush toys for comfort and companionship.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Sometime last year I saw a man in his young to mid-twenties with a fluffy toy grinning cheekily out at the world from a clip on his belt. The contrast between his masculine-expressing clothing and the plushie jarred. It was some sort of statement, but I didn't know how to interpret it and I couldn’t forget it. That was my introduction to Labubu. Meeting Labubu and Pop Mart Labubu is a small fluffy toy with stubby arms, rabbit eats, a round body and large head filled with huge doe-eyes and a wide "snaggletoothed" grin. Created in 2015 by artist-designer Kasing Lung for a picture book series, Labubu and her magical elven companions - each imbued with unique characteristics - are inspired by Nordic mythology and dubbed “The Monsters”.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Github.
