What is a Labubu? This question has been increasingly searched as the popularity of this curious little creature spreads across the world of art toys and designer collectibles. Labubu is the central figure of a unique character family created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung under Pop Mart, a major name in the designer toy industry. Originating from a whimsical Nordic forest world, the Labubu family belongs to “The Monsters” series, a fantastical collection of forest elves, each with its own personality, backstory, and fan following. Together, they create a vivid universe filled with magic, friendship, and imagination.
At the heart of this universe is Labubu itself, a cat-sized elf with spiky fur, nine sharp teeth, and pointy ears. Known for its mischievous grin and wild appearance, Labubu is playful, curious, and full of energy. While it loves to cause trouble, especially by teasing its friend Tycoco, Labubu is ultimately kind-hearted and brave, often acting as the soul of the group and the face of the entire brand. Its expressive design and charming personality have made it a cultural phenomenon among collectors in Asia and beyond.
Zimomo is another key character, known as the “big boss” of the forest. Essentially a larger version of Labubu, Zimomo has a prominent tail and is usually seen with a crown or a scepter, giving it a strong leadership vibe. It rarely stays in the forest, preferring to venture out into the world. Zimomo’s figurines, especially limited editions, are in high demand, often selling for several times their original price in the resale market.
Tycoco is instantly recognizable by its soft-edged skull head and gentle expression. While shy and introverted, Tycoco remains optimistic and feeds on plant seeds. The connection between Tycoco and Labubu is one of the emotional highlights of the story—official lore describes one Labubu and Tycoco as a romantic couple, giving fans a touching, bittersweet relationship to follow.
Mokoko adds a different kind of warmth to the family. With pink fur, a heart-shaped nose, and a white belly, Mokoko has a soft, sweet appearance and a slightly vain personality. It wears a small cap and is seen as the gentle healer of the group. Rare Mokoko editions, especially park-exclusive figures, have become extremely valuable due to their scarcity and visual appeal.
Supporting these core characters is a colorful cast of additional forest dwellers. Pippo, the river elf, is humorous and sociable, often inviting Labubu for drinks. Yaya, a mountain elf, is over-energetic and famously directionless, having stumbled into the village by accident and decided to stay. Spooky, the night-dwelling ghost, is a mysterious presence in the forest and maintains a close bond with the Labubu clan. Then there’s Pato, Pippo’s brother and Yaya’s friend, who loves to fantasize about ghost stories and adds an extra layer of whimsy to the group.
So, what is a Labubu? It’s the gateway to a magical forest filled with emotion, personality, and storytelling. Whether you’re a toy collector, a fan of character design, or someone simply looking to explore a unique fantasy world, the Labubu family offers an imaginative escape and a creative universe that continues to grow with each new release. From the core characters to the rare editions, Labubu is more than just a toy—it’s a story, a symbol, and a beloved part of pop culture.
