BLACKPINK’s Lisa isn’t just a global fashion icon — she’s also the unexpected catalyst behind a billion-dollar toy frenzy. Her influence propelled Labubu, a quirky art toy bunny from Kasing Lung’s The Monsters universe, into worldwide fame.
Though Labubu was first introduced following the release of Lung’s The Monsters trilogy, it wasn’t until 2019, when he partnered with Chinese toy giant POP MART, that the character’s popularity exploded. According to POP MART, the first launch of The Monsters collection “broke the sales record in the art toy category,” cementing Labubu’s status as a collector’s favorite.
But Labubu’s cult appeal transformed into mainstream obsession in April 2024, when Lisa posted Instagram photos cradling a plush Labubu doll. Overnight, demand for the character skyrocketed, with prices jumping by 400% and items selling out across Asia. Labubu evolved from a niche art toy to a coveted fashion accessory, appearing on handbags and streetwear, thanks in part to Lisa’s effortless styling.
This trend also caught fire globally, with celebrities like Dua Lipa and Rihanna joining Lisa in embracing Labubu. What started as a collector’s gem quickly became a full-on cultural phenomenon, spawning a secondary market for custom doll clothing and even counterfeit versions known as “Lafufus.”
The ripple effect of Lisa’s influence and POP MART’s strategy was immense. In 2025, Wang Ning, CEO of Pop Mart International, reportedly became $1.6 billion richer in a single day amid the brand’s booming success in the U.S. His current net worth stands at $18.3 billion, according to Forbes — a testament to the enormous economic impact of a small, sharp-toothed bunny.
The global reach of Labubu extended beyond toys. In a landmark move, the Tourism Authority of Thailand partnered with POP MART to bring Labubu-themed promotions to Thai tourism and cuisine. And at Milan Men’s Fashion Week 2024, Labubu stole the spotlight from human attendees by appearing front row in a custom-designed outfit.
With the global art toy market reaching $120 billion in revenue in 2023 (Statista), Labubu now stands shoulder to shoulder with icons like BearBrick. Thanks to Lisa’s star power and savvy brand partnerships, Labubu’s journey from cult character to cultural juggernaut proves that even a “monster bunny” can become a billionaire brand.