Labubu is a fictional monster character with a distinctive appearance: sharp-toothed grin with nine serrated teeth, pointy rabbit-like ears, furrowed eyebrows, and a round furry body1. Despite looking mischievous and slightly scary, the character is described by Pop Mart as kind-hearted and eager to help, though she often accidentally causes the opposite effect2. The toys come in various forms including vinyl figures, plush dolls, keychains, and bag charm pendants, with the keychain versions being especially popular as fashion accessories3.

Labubu is part of a larger cast called "The Monsters," which includes characters like Zimomo (the spike-tailed leader), Tycoco (Labubu's skeleton-like boyfriend), Spooky, and Pato4. Collectors often note that Labubu is female, a fact that surprises many who assume the character is male2. The toys are sold through Pop Mart's "blind box" system, meaning buyers don't know which exact design they'll receive until opening the package, with some rare variants commanding high resale prices5.

The character's aesthetic has been described as "cute horror" or "kimo-kawaii," blending traditional kawaii cuteness with an unsettling edge6. This juxtaposition of big innocent eyes with a nightmarish grin gives Labubu a unique appeal that sets it apart from typical cute collectibles. Over 300 different Labubu designs have been released in various sizes, colors, and themed collections7.

Labubu toys are primarily used as fashion accessories, with the keychain and pendant versions designed to clip onto bags, backpacks, and purses. The styling popularized by Lisa involves attaching a Labubu plush pendant to a luxury handbag as a playful contrast to high-end fashion10. Collectors also display larger vinyl figures and plush dolls on shelves or desks.

Participating in Labubu collecting typically involves purchasing "blind boxes" from Pop Mart stores or vending machines, where the specific design inside remains unknown until opening. This element of surprise drives repeat purchases as collectors hunt for rare variants. Some collectors line up overnight before new releases or restocks3. Secondary market trading happens on platforms like StockX, where rare colorways command premium prices5.