Latest news with #LabubuDolls
Glasgow Times
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Glasgow Times
Glasgow parents buying 'anti-theft device' for kids' dolls
The Labubu dolls, which have shot to viral fame on TikTok, have seen people queuing for hours in the Barras to try and buy one. Never Miss a Gift is the only stall at the famous East End market selling the dolls, which have become a global phenomenon. And they've now revealed they've had to find a solution for parents as there's been a shocking increase in 'thefts in schools' of the creepy-cute accessories. READ MORE: The inside story of queues at Glasgow's Barras over Labubu craze Never Miss a Gift said: "Sadly, over the last few weeks, there has been a small number of parents who have come to purchase replacement Labubus as their kids have had them stolen at school. "We know only too well that these collectable Labubu Dolls are so expensive, and if they are stolen, it causes so much distress for the kids and doubles the expense. "We looked to source a device that could make stealing the Labubu's more difficult, and we are happy to say we found, purchased and tried out this super little product that really does work. "We will have them for sale at our Barras Market Shop and also on our website." A Labubu Macaron doll on its moped (Image: Newsquest/Colin Mearns) READ MORE: HUGE new mural being painted in Glasgow city centre by well-known artist The 'Anti-Theft Labubu Coil Device' wraps around the clasp, which is usually used to attach the doll to a bag. Never Miss a Gift says they have tried and tested the device and that it "also looks good on the pendant," so it won't ruin the look of the designer doll. Three generations help stock and sell from the family-run stall, which has rocketed to success since opening in the market last year. Speaking to us about the demand for the dolls last month, they said: "The queues start at around 7am and are right out the door. "We've had to start limiting sales to one per customer so that less people are disappointed. 'I told my daughter we should start handing out tickets, but she said that was too far. 'It's really sad to see people upset when we run out, but we just can't keep up with the demand. 'We usually only get this busy at Christmas, so it's nice to have such a buzz about the place at this time of year.' Glasgow parents buying 'anti-theft devices' for kids' dolls (Image: Newsquest/Colin Mearns) READ MORE: 'Phenomenal': Glasgow flower shop named best in Scotland at top awards There are two main types of Labubu, the Have a Seat and the Macaron, with the newer Big Into Energy series due in stock soon. With the Barras only open from 10am until 4pm on Saturdays and Sundays, there's always huge demand for the sprite-like creatures, which they describe as 'creepy cute'. Part of the appeal also lies in the element of surprise - Labubu dolls are sold in 'surprise boxes', meaning you don't know which character you'll get until you unwrap it. READ MORE: Thousands to attend sold-out show with Craig Gordon among special guests This fuels the 'addictive' nature of the collectables and the stall says: 'The minute people get one, they want them all. "I would put them in the same bracket as when my daughter was into Cabbage Patch Dolls or my son was into Ninja Turtles". The rarest of 'The Monsters' even fetch 'thousands of pounds' when resold online. Labubu come from the imagination of Hong Kong-based artist Kasing Lung, who credits their inspiration to folk tales from Norway. Made by Japan-based Pop Mart, the company has seen their profits rise by 188 per cent in the past year.
India Today
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- India Today
Labubu Dolls: What are these cute monsters taking over the world?
The Labubu doll craze is everywhere: it can be seen hanging from designer handbags, appearing in viral social media posts, and even selling for six-figure amounts at auctions. But what exactly is a Labubu doll, and why are people waiting in line for hours to buy one?Labubu began as a character in Kasing Lung's storybook series. Born in Hong Kong, Lung drew on the fairy tales and myths he loved as a child when he created Labubu as a character in the series. Labubu first appeared in 2015. However, the Labubu madness started in 2019 when the Chinese toy company Pop Mart began to sell Labubu dolls in their famous "blind boxes".advertisementLabubu dolls aren't the regular cute plushies. With their oversized eyes, rabbit-like ears, furry bodies, and sharp, toothy smiles, Labubu dolls are both fat and frightening - a "scary-cute" style that has made them a favourite for people looking to stand out and represent their individuality. Labubu dolls have transformed from simple toys into fashion statements and collectables. Rare editions can sell for thousands, and life-size dolls have fetched over $170,000 at auction. Celebrities like Rihanna, Dua Lipa, and Lisa from Blackpink have contributed to the excitement is boosted by the 'blind box,' a sealed package that keeps collectors guessing which doll they will get. This mystery drives collectors to buy repeatedly in hopes of finding rare or exclusive dolls. Labubu Dolls: What are these cute monsters taking over the world? advertisementWHY ARE LABUBU DOLLS SO DESIRABLE?Labubu dolls have spread throughout the world because of a few components:Unique Design: Labubu dolls have a scary-cute look, rather than a traditional cute toy like Hello Kitty, making them desirable to collectors who want something out of the ordinary, and to younger people. Labubu's sharp features and cheeky smile set it apart from traditional Box: Collectors are drawn to a blind box, especially due to the uncertainty of which Labubu doll they might receive from the blind box. Some versions are rare or exclusive, which makes them extremely Factor: Labubu dolls can be seen with global celebrities like Rihanna, Dua Lipa, or Lisa of Blackpink (dolls sold separately!).Social Media The Buzz: As mentioned earlier, kids and adults are still taking pictures of their Labubu dolls, which makes it the trend spread faster than if they just had an ordinary toy. Labubu Dolls: What are these cute monsters taking over the world? Labubu dolls are more than just adorable memorabilia - they are a worldwide cultural moment that blends nostalgia, mystery and pop culture. The Labubu dolls started as a fairly simple children's book by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung. Pop Mart came along and catapulted Labubu into a viral toy phenomenon through their clever marketing, blind-box thrills, and celebrity you are an avid collector, a fashion lover or someone who enjoys unique design, Labubu will have something fun and personal for you. As the demand grows, it is safe to say that Labubu is here to stay, delivering happiness and surprises in its small, toothy grin.
South Wales Argus
21-06-2025
- Entertainment
- South Wales Argus
What are Labubu Dolls? The Pop Mart toys taking over
The toys, created by Pop Mart, have become a viral hit on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. In recent weeks, Pop Mart stores around the world, including in the UK, have seen hour-long queues as eager fans of the dolls hope to get their hands on the trending toys. Famed for the odd but cute look, Labubu Dolls have become a worldwide hit that shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon. @itvlorraine Confused by the latest viral trend of Labubu dolls? Lucie and Mark explain everything you need to know! ♬ original sound - Lorraine But, if you've not jumped on the trend yet and aren't sure what Labubu Dolls are, here's a quick explainer so you can stay on trend. What are Labubu Dolls? Labubu Dolls first originated in Hong Kong and were inspired by a picture book created by artist Kasing Lung. The book became so popular that Pop Mart decided to create a collection of the Labubu creatures in 2019, and the dolls became an instant hit. The Labubu's are part of a group of 'creatures' called "The Monsters" which includes the likes of Mokoko, Tycoco and Zimomo. Pop Mart website describes the dolls as: "kind-hearted and always wants to help, but often accidentally achieves the opposite." The dolls are best known for their large grins and furry exterior, which change depending on the collection of Labubu. How much are Labubu Dolls? In the UK, Labubu Dolls range from £13.50 to £50; however, the rare collectors' editions can fetch hundreds of pounds on resale sites like Vinted and eBay. Recommended Reading What are Sonny Angel's? Another toy which have also gained popularity recently is Sonny Angels/ small dolls of angel boys wearing a range of headgear. On TikTok, Sonny Angel's has gained more than 95 million views since it was first posted in April of 2023.
The Sun
20-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
‘This is terrifying!' Labubu doll fans say after discovering what's behind the viral toy's cute, furry exterior
THEY'RE the must-have accessory of the summer - but people have been left horrified after seeing what is behind the viral Labubu dolls. The furry dolls - made popular by Chinese toy company Pop Mart - have caused shoppers to go into a frenzy in recent months. 5 5 With their bunny ears and creepy smiles, Labubu dolls have surged in popularity since being spotted on the bags of celebrities including Rihanna, Kim Kardashian, Olivia Attwood and Gemma Collins - and even David Beckham. But now people are realising what the dolls look like without their fluffy exteriors. One social media user has gone viral after sharing a photo of their toy without its iconic hooded outfit and soft clothes. The bald-looking doll looked rather less endearing, with its large, toothy smile and claw-like feet. The X user showed how the doll is wearing underwear with a bow under its recognisable fluffy onesie. One person wrote: 'THIS S*** LOOKS HORRENDOUS WHAT THE F***.' Another added: 'THIS IS TERRIFYING.' A third commented: 'Now why would you undress the Labubu? [It's] looking like when a man shaves off his beard and has no chin.' Many people said the worst part of the exposed doll was the three-toed, alligator-like feet. Created by Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung, the vinyl figures are sold in £17.50 'blind boxes' — so fans do not know which version they are getting. I wasn't going to fork out for a Labubu so nabbed a budget alternative from B&M instead - it's SO much cuter too Labubus come in an array of vibrant colours, unique shapes and various sizes, spanning from plush toys to striking vinyl figures - and rare models are re-selling online for up to £1,000. CELEB APPEAL Former England captain David revealed that his daughter Harper, 13, had bought him one, showing off a snap of a rare 'secret' edition character. Kim Kardashian posted a shot of her collection, while former Love Island star Olivia went further by having a Labubu-themed birthday party. Rihanna was also pictured sporting one on a Louis Vuitton handbag in LA. 5 5 And Towie favourite Gemma declared she's 'obsessed', adding: 'It's all about the Labubu.' The brand made its debut in 2015, but skyrocketed in global popularity after hitting Pop Mart shelves in 2019. The first three months of 2025 were wildly successful for the brand, with Brits searching high and low to nab one of the quirky figurines. Since opening stores in London and Manchester over the last 12 months, Labubu dolls have become cult collectibles among grown British women. Where to buy Labubu and how much do they cost? 5 Labubu dolls are sold on Amazon, the Pop Mart website, as well as in the toy retailer's various UK outlets. Among these are London's famous Oxford Street, as well as Westfield shopping centres and Manchester's Chinatown district. A single model can cost anywhere from £13.50 to £211, depending on the rarity of the design. A blind box of six from Pop Mart will set you back a cool £105. You can also pick up the figurines in Harrods for a limited time. What are Labubu and why are they so popular? LABUBU is a brand of plushies designed by Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung and loved by celebrities like Olivia Attwood, Dua Lipa and Rihanna. The brand made its debut in 2015, but skyrocketed in global popularity after hitting Pop Mart shelves in 2019. Pop Mart is a Chinese toy retailer, known for its collectible designer models that are often sold in a blind box format, meaning you don't know what you've got until you've opened it. After mammoth success overseas, the Labubu craze has now made its way to the UK. The first three months of 2025 were wildly successful for the brand, with Brits searching high and low to nab one of the quirky figurines. Since opening stores in London and Manchester over the last 12 months, Labubu dolls have become cult collectibles among grown British women. Labubus come in an array of vibrant colours, unique shapes and various sizes, spanning from plush toys to striking vinyl figures. They come as little toys you can hook on your handbag, as well as mega-sized figures and quirky home decorations.
Wall Street Journal
20-06-2025
- Business
- Wall Street Journal
Labubu Maker's Shares Drop as Chinese State Media Signal Tighter Scrutiny
Shares in Pop Mart International 9992 -5.63%decrease; red down pointing triangle, the maker of the wildly popular Labubu dolls, took a hit after Chinese state media signaled stricter regulation over 'blind-box' toys. Pop Mart's Hong Kong-listed shares fell as much as 6.2% Friday morning before paring losses.
