The global phenomenon surrounding Labubu, the distinctive collectibles crafted by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung as part of his acclaimed “The Monsters” series, has officially taken root in Hollywood. Known for their captivating blend of cuteness and unsettling features—large eyes, wide mouths, and sharp teeth, drawing inspiration from Nordic mythology—Labubu figures have transitioned from niche art toys to a mainstream cultural sensation, culminating recently in participation by the cast of the upcoming F1 movie.
Hollywood Embraces the Hype
The surge in Labubu’s popularity reached a new zenith during a promotional event for the highly anticipated F1 film. On June 20, 2025, in Los Angeles, key members of the movie’s cast engaged in the popular blind box trend, seeking out coveted Labubu figures. Actor Brad Pitt, participating in the unboxing, openly expressed his desire to acquire the pink “Dada” variant but ultimately pulled the green “Ququ.” His co-star, Kerry Condon, however, successfully procured the much sought-after “Dada,” which was notably depicted wearing an F1-themed T-shirt. This specific detail has ignited speculation among collectors regarding its potential as a rare and valuable item.
Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton also joined the activity, light-heartedly thanking the organizers for providing the figures. This public display of engagement from A-list celebrities and a global sports icon underscores the far-reaching impact of the Labubu craze and is expected to further intensify demand for the collectibles.
Origins and Design
The Labubu characters are the creation of acclaimed Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, forming part of his broader artistic universe titled “The Monsters.” Lung’s work often blends fantasy elements with whimsical yet sometimes dark undertones. The distinctive appearance of Labubu, with its exaggerated features and rootedness in Nordic mythology, sets it apart in the crowded designer toy market, contributing significantly to its unique appeal and collectible status.
Market Dynamics and Collector Frenzy
The unprecedented demand for Labubu figures has significantly altered their market dynamics. Initially available through standard retail channels, primarily Pop Mart stores globally, the collectibles are now frequently distributed via lottery systems due to overwhelming popularity and limited stock. This shift highlights the scale of the frenzy, which has previously led to disruptive queues and stock shortages at locations worldwide, including notable incidents in the United Kingdom.
Originally priced within a range of HK$100 to HK$500, the difficulty in obtaining Labubu figures at retail has dramatically inflated their resale values on the secondary market. The high prices and scarcity have also unfortunately paved the way for the proliferation of counterfeit versions, posing a challenge for both collectors and the brand in distinguishing authentic pieces from fakes.
A Pop Culture Phenomenon
Labubu’s ascension is indicative of its status beyond just a collectible item; it has firmly established itself as a modern pop culture phenomenon. Its presence extends to fashion and celebrity endorsements, as evidenced by K-pop superstar Lisa of BLACKPINK being photographed accessorizing with Labubu figures. Such visibility across different cultural spheres reinforces its broad appeal and influence.
Conclusion
The journey of Labubu, from an artist’s creation inspired by mythology to a global collectible sensation commanding high resale values and now captivating Hollywood stars like Brad Pitt, Kerry Condon, and Lewis Hamilton, is a testament to its unique design and the power of viral pop culture trends. The involvement of the F1 movie cast not only highlights Labubu’s mainstream penetration but also ensures that this blind box craze, originating from Hong Kong, remains firmly in the global spotlight.
