The Whimsical World of Labubu: A Breakdown of Lore, Characters, and Popular Series

In the vibrant universe of collectible designer toys, few characters have captured hearts quite like Labubu. Created by acclaimed illustrator Kasing Lung and produced by POP MART for mass production and HOW2WORK his personal studios for special editions. Labubu is not just a single character but an entire mischievous tribe of whimsical creatures. The concept draws inspiration from a mix of cultural references—including the Belgian cartoon The Smurfs and the beloved American children’s book Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak. Lung has shared in interviews that both of these works influenced Labubu’s development, helping him imagine a world where creatures could be both wild and endearing, part of a fantastical tribe rather than a solitary hero.

A Tribe of Tricksters

Labubu is designed as a collective species. All Labubus are female, according to Lung, and they thrive in a tight-knit community filled with charm, mystery, and a dash of cheekiness. There is a main "Labubu," recognizable by her dark brown fur. She's become the unofficial mascot for the line, embodying the playful and spirited essence of the brand. People are resonating with these cuties. The plush pendants that have become a fan-favorite product from POP MART. These tiny soft figures are more than just adorable accessories; they’re secret carriers of Labubu’s magic.

Key Characters in Labubu Lore

While the tribe is the focal point, a few standout characters enrich the narrative:

Labubu - This is the character that everyone is going crazy over.

Zimomo – The leader of the Labubus and the only male in the core cast, Zimomo is larger than the others and easily recognizable by his spiky tail. Inspired by Papa Smurf.

Mokoko – An elusive and enchanting member, Mokoko has a red or pink heart-shaped nose with a white belly and is inspired by Smurfette. She’s rare and can only be found at POP LAND, making her a sought-after figure among collectors.

Tycoco – Labubu’s skeletal boyfriend, Tycoco adds a gothic-romantic twist to the whimsical tribe.

Pato – A  creature with droopy ears and a sensitive, dreamy nature.

Spooky – A ghost-like figure with a head resembling a bundled cloth under the moonlight, Spooky evokes a mysterious and poetic atmosphere.

Yaya – With a devilish smirk and impish charm, Yaya embodies the mischievous spirit of the Monster world, always stirring up fun or trouble.

Pippo – A lively winemaker who stands a little taller than the others, Pippo is known for his oversized ears and joyful, spirited energy.

Plush Pendant Series: A Collector’s Dream

Among POP MART’s many offerings—figurines, vinyl plushes, and plush pendants—the plush pendants have risen to the top in popularity. These limited edition collections blend creativity, cuteness, and storytelling in a way that keeps collectors coming back for more. Each series has its own unique theme and aesthetic, but one detail remains consistent: every version includes a Zimomo figure released separately at a later date.

Here’s a quick look at the plush pendant series released so far:

• Version 1: Tasty Macarons Series
  This charming set features standing Labubus styled with cottagecore vibes and names based on sweet flavors. It’s cozy, colorful, and perfect for fans who love dessert-themed designs.
• Version 2: Have a Seat Series
  In this collection, the Labubus are seated and showcase a range of quirky facial expressions. Set on a beach backdrop, each figure has a repetitive name pattern like Zizi, Qiqi, or Sisi, giving them a rhythmic, storybook quality.
• Version 3: Big Into Energy Series
  A vibrant and emotionally expressive collection, this series spotlights fluffier textures and brighter colors. Each Labubu embodies a specific emotion, making the series feel more personal and energetic.

The Magic of Labubu

What makes Labubu so special is how effortlessly it blends nostalgia, design, and imagination. With a rich lore that invites fans to explore the personalities and relationships of the tribe, and with products that surprise and delight, it's no wonder Labubu has become a cornerstone of the POP MART universe.

As the lore continues to expand and new series are released, one thing’s for sure: the mischief, mystery, and magic of Labubu will only grow stronger with time.

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