What is Pop Mart and why does everyone collect it?

This is how Labubu grew into a global collector's phenomenon

It started with a small figure from China – today collectors around the world know Labubu, the furry character from Pop Mart’s popular series The Monsters . But how did Labubu really become an international name? Behind the success are smart design, strong emotions – and a lot of surprises.

An emotional connection, not just a toy

Pop Mart has invested heavily in developing its own characters with personality and background. Figures like Labubu come to life through distinct expressions, colors and themes – which creates an emotional connection with fans. Many collectors describe Labubu as more than a figure – it is an identity, a feeling.

The blind box model – the secret ingredient of collecting

One of Pop Mart’s most powerful ideas is the blind box concept – you don’t know which figure you’re getting until you open the box. This creates excitement, collector’s interest and a natural interest in trading, selling or collecting entire series. Particularly rare figures (called “chase”) are highly sought after and can fetch high prices on the secondary market.

From TikTok to malls

Labubu has been seen with celebrities such as Rihanna and members of BlackPink – but it is above all the fans who have spread the figure further. On TikTok, YouTube and Instagram, clips of unboxings, collections and shelves full of figures are shared daily. In parallel, Pop Mart has opened hundreds of its own stores, pop-ups and even vending machines (“Robo Shops”) in shopping centers.

A culture – not just a trend

Pop Mart and Labubu are no longer just “designer toys” – they are part of a global collecting culture. Each new series becomes an event. Fans get involved, vote for new characters and meet at exhibitions and fairs. Labubu has become a way to express their style, their interest and their creativity.