The Labubu Craze
Are these plush toy keychains worth the hype?
BY Alexa Murland ★ JUly 6th, 2025
Photo Credit: Zoe Xixis
Labubus are taking over social media. These monster-like blind boxes are in high demand and have become impossible to track down. POP MART — the mastermind company behind this trend — even has a waitlist on their website for the next Labubu drop.
The characters originated from a picture book series called "The Monsters" by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung and quickly sprung to fame.
Even more popularity came after K-pop star Lisa from BLACKPINK was photographed alongside a Labubu. But, it isn’t just Lisa. Tons of celebrities, like Rihanna, Dua Lipa and Kim Kardashian, are stepping out in public with little furry friends attached to their designer bags — some even dressed head to toe in designer custom-made outfits. These creatures have easily become a collector’s dream, and it doesn’t help that they are all I see on my TikTok For You page. So, are we falling for these dolls?
Usually, I can get behind most trends. I adore a collectible item, like a Sonny Angel, but I am not sure I’d rush to buy a Labubu for my purse.
Don’t get me wrong: I sort of understand the appeal, but I don’t need to carry a creature around in public for over $25 dollars. I feel they would be more acceptable to have on a shelf in your bedroom.
Photo Credit: Ella Maniloff
The question we should be asking is: Are these keychains really cute, or do people just purchase them to keep up with the trends?
It is addicting to watch people unbox their keychains, and the blind box aspect makes me more inclined to buy a Labubu — but for the price? I’d rather spend money on some other microtrend like a new flavor of Summer Fridays.
Designer bags are pricey, and I don’t think you necessarily need a plush toy keychain on your Hermès Birkin. The bag itself says enough.
The only thing I can take away from this trend is that any product endorsed by celebrities is destined to be sold out. Yes…even small furry monsters.