In a world constantly searching for the next cultural spark, few movements have emerged with the raw energy and viral magnetism of Labubus. What started as a cryptic term whispered in niche corners of the internet has evolved into a full-blown creative force that’s leaving its mark on art, fashion, music, and social commentary.
But what exactly is Labubus—and why is everyone talking about it?
That’s exactly what happened to Sam Kersh, co-founder of sneaker store KershKicks, when Central Cee reached out. Just before performing to a packed crowd at the OVO Hydro on his Can’t Rush Greatness tour, Cench and his team pulled up in a fleet of six black Mercedes-Benz Sprinters.
They cleared the shelves, leaving with every single Labubu doll in stock. Later that night, the British rapper shared an Instagram Story showing the dolls clipped onto his Hermès Birkin. “He even had the ‘Chestnut Cocoa’ colourway,” Kersh notes. “That one’s incredibly rare and super sought-after—it goes for serious money on the resale market.”
Labubu dolls have become one of the most hyped collectible crazes of recent years. Dominating Instagram and TikTok feeds, the grinning keyring-sized figures have been around since 2015, when Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung introduced The Monsters—a spooky ensemble of creatures originally featured in his picture books. By 2019, Lung had teamed up with Chinese toy powerhouse Pop Mart to bring Labubu into the world as a physical vinyl collectible.