Anna Agoncillo
For those unfamiliar with its origin, Labubu emerged from the imagination of Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung in 2015. Introduced in Lung’s Nordic folklore-inspired series “The Monsters”, Labubu is a quirky, elf-like figure that has captured the hearts of many. It has since been crafted in over 300 variations as reported by Kaikai Kiki Gallery.
Labubu’s journey skyrocketed in 2019 when Lung partnered with Pop Mart to release the character in collectible blind boxes, amplifying the thrill of each purchase. Yet, it wasn’t until early 2024, when K-pop sensation Lisa shared photos of her Labubu dolls, that the toy captured mainstream attention, setting off a viral trend.
Recently, Labubu headlines have been everywhere, and my social media feeds are flooded with stories ranging from petty thefts to heartwarming initiatives. While some fans have fallen prey to scams, others are using Labubu’s popularity to support charitable causes.
FAMILY OF 3 STEALS S$100 WORTH OF LABUBU
Cash Chong, the owner of Dr. Clawtopus in Sim Lim Square, shared shocking footage of a family allegedly swiping S$100.70 worth of Labubu dolls from his claw machines. The video shows the family tinkering with the machines, seemingly attempting to break one open.
Image Credits: facebook.com/popmartglobal
Watching the footage left me stunned as the parents committing a theft in front of their child is disheartening. The stolen dolls included a Halloween Labubu, a Pronounce Labubu, and a “Have a Seat” Labubu, valued between S$24.90 and S$37.90 each. Chong, in an act of grace, said he hopes the family will return the dolls in good condition and assured them he would not press charges if they do.
WOMAN LOSES S$6,000 IN LABUBU SCAM
A young woman in Malaysia was scammed out of nearly RM20,000 (around S$6,000) while trying to purchase Labubu dolls through Instagram. Initially, she made a small purchase that went smoothly, receiving a genuine doll in excellent condition. However, when she placed a larger order, the seller demanded payments split across five different bank accounts. Trusting the seller due to her positive first experience, she complied, only to be blocked by the seller shortly afterward.
Reflecting on her experience, I’m reminded of my own encounter with an overseas seller on Instagram whose designer wallets seemed too good to be true. While I received my item, I still wonder if it was genuine as an online forum revealed that the seller has scammed hundreds of people before. Afterward, I became more cautious, buying only from reputable sellers despite their higher prices.
MAN SPENDS S$10,000 ON LABUBU IN A MONTH
In the world of collectors, everyone has their own currency of value. While my cousin invests in luxury watches and I save up for my dream bag, some enthusiasts like Lu Tianfu pour their funds into Labubu.
Lu, an architect by profession, dedicates much of his free time to hunting for Labubu figures. He visits arcades across Singapore nearly every day. With over 60 Labubu blind boxes and multiple larger figurines in his collection, Lu has even started selling some of his catches.
CHANGI PRISON INMATES CRAFT LABUBU OUTFITS FOR CHARITY
In a heartwarming twist to the Labubu phenomenon, four female inmates at Changi Prison have put their skills to good use, crocheting tiny outfits for Labubu dolls as part of the Art Behind Bars rehabilitation program.
Guided by volunteers, the inmates spend up to six hours a day crafting these outfits, which will be sold to the public for S$15 each at Just BrewIN cafe starting mid-November. Proceeds will support the Yellow Ribbon Fund, showcasing how the Labubu craze can contribute to meaningful causes.
Image Credits: facebook.com/SingaporePrisonService
What Labubu story do you think will go viral next? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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