Best Labubu The Monsters Collection 2025 – Rare & Limited Edition Figures

Labubu The Monsters: Unpacking the Whimsical World of Kasing Lung’s Creations

In the vibrant landscape of designer toys and pop culture collectibles, few phenomena shine as brightly as Labubu and “The Monsters.” This captivating universe, born from the imagination of Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, has transcended its origins in picture books to become a global sensation, primarily through its collaboration with the blind box giant POP MART. “Labubu The Monsters” represents more than just a collection of figures; it’s a meticulously crafted world filled with mischievous charm, heartwarming tales, and a cast of characters that have captured the hearts of millions.¹

The Genesis of Mischief: Kasing Lung’s Vision

The story of “The Monsters” begins with its creator, Kasing Lung.² Born in Hong Kong in 1972 and later raised in the Netherlands, Lung’s artistic sensibilities were deeply shaped by European folklore, particularly Nordic mythology and ancient elf legends.³ Growing up in an era before pervasive digital entertainment, Lung found solace and inspiration in classic storybooks, leading him to develop a unique blend of whimsical fantasy and subtle depth in his art.

In 2015, Lung introduced the world to “The Monsters” through a trilogy of graphic novels. These books laid the foundation for a fantastical realm inhabited by a tribe of creatures, often depicted as living in a whimsical Nordic forest. Lung’s philosophy for these characters was to imbue them with distinct personalities and unspoken narratives, inviting the audience to forge a personal connection and project their own emotions onto the figures. This profound approach transforms static collectibles into dynamic companions, fostering a deeper bond between the art and its admirer.⁴

The pivotal moment for “The Monsters” came in 2019 when Kasing Lung signed an exclusive licensing agreement with POP MART.⁵ This strategic partnership leveraged POP MART’s unparalleled manufacturing capabilities and vast global distribution network, catapulting “The Monsters” from a niche art collectible to a mainstream pop culture icon, reaching an unprecedented global audience.

The Inhabitants of “The Monsters” Universe

While Labubu is undoubtedly the most recognizable and beloved character, the universe of “The Monsters” is populated by a diverse and intriguing cast, each contributing to the rich tapestry of Kasing Lung’s imaginative world:

1. Labubu: The undeniable star.⁶ Labubu is characterized by its signature high, pointed ears, wide, expressive eyes, and a mischievous grin showcasing nine serrated teeth.⁷ Often depicted with a round, furry body, Labubu embodies a paradox of being both adorable and slightly fierce.⁸ According to Kasing Lung, Labubu is fundamentally kind-hearted and always eager to help, though its good intentions often inadvertently lead to comical chaos.⁹ Despite the common misconception, Labubu does not have a tail.¹⁰ Labubu is often portrayed as female in the lore.
2. Zimomo: The leader of the Labubu elves. Zimomo shares many physical similarities with Labubu but can be distinctly identified by its spiked tail and, in earlier iterations, a slightly rounder face.¹¹ Zimomo is generally portrayed as more sophisticated and cool, often joining Labubu’s antics with a seasoned air. In the story, Zimomo is described as being significantly larger than Labubu, embodying a protective and guiding role within the tribe, a dynamic inspired by Papa Smurf’s leadership in The Smurfs.¹²
3. Mokoko: A truly adorable member of the tribe, Mokoko is easily recognizable by its pastel pink fur, a white belly, curly eyelashes, and a distinctive heart-shaped nose.¹³ The name “Mokoko” is said to mean “special” in Elvish, a fitting description for this character who exudes sweetness and charm.¹⁴ Mokoko is often depicted as one of Labubu’s closest companions.¹⁵
4. Tycoco: Labubu’s “skeleton-looking” boyfriend.¹⁶ Despite a somewhat eerie skeletal appearance, Tycoco is known for his shy, gentle, and peaceful nature, often portrayed as a vegetarian.¹⁷ His unique design provides a charming contrast within the whimsical world of “The Monsters,” and his sweet relationship with Labubu is a frequent subject in POP MART merchandise, especially around Valentine’s Day.¹⁸
5. Spooky: This quiet and curious character is often recognizable by the distinctive dumpling-like folds on the top of its head.¹⁹ Spooky is depicted as a snowman-like creature who enjoys nighttime adventures under the moonlight and visiting lively settings. Spooky is also known as Pippo’s half-brother, adding a familial connection within the tribe.
6. Pato: A dreamer with a slightly melancholic air, Pato is characterized by its droopy ears and often mouse-like appearance.²⁰ Pato is known for its insightful nature and tendency to come up with clever plans, blurring the lines between good and evil in its whimsical existence.
7. Pippo: A humorous river elf with notably large ears, Pippo embodies a love for life and enjoys parties and wine tasting. Pippo brings a lighthearted and social energy to the tribe and is Spooky’s half-brother.
8. Yaya: A mischievous imp with pointed horns and a devilish smirk.²¹ Yaya is known for its love of exploration but also for its poor sense of direction, which humorously led to its settling in Labubu’s village.²²

The “Monsters” in Collectible Form

The partnership between Kasing Lung and POP MART has been instrumental in bringing “The Monsters” to a global audience through a vast array of collectibles, primarily leveraging the highly successful blind box format.²³ Each series offers a new theme and interpretation of these beloved characters:

• Themed Blind Box Series: These collections feature Labubu and its companions in diverse outfits and scenarios.²⁴ Examples include:
  • “The Monsters – Exciting Macaron”: A hugely popular series where characters are adorned in vibrant, dessert-themed jumpsuits, often used as trendy bag charms.²⁵
  • “The Monsters – Have a Seat”: This innovative series (featuring the beloved “Baba Labubu”) presents characters in various comfortable sitting poses, utilizing a unique combination of vinyl for faces and flocked (plush-like) material for bodies.²⁶
  • “The Monsters – Fall in Wild”: Portrays the characters in wilderness-inspired attire, complete with outdoor props.²⁷
  • “The Monsters – Big into Energy”: Focuses on dynamic and energetic poses, showcasing the monsters’ lively spirit.
  • “The Monsters – Let’s Have Fun Together”: A series emphasizing playful interactions and group scenarios.²⁸
• Collaborations: “The Monsters” have also engaged in numerous high-profile collaborations, allowing the characters to blend with other iconic brands and IPs.²⁹ Notable examples include the Labubu x Coca-Cola series and the highly anticipated Labubu x One Piece series, where the Straw Hat Pirates are reimagined as “The Monsters.”³⁰ These collaborations further extend the universe’s reach and appeal.
• Larger Scale Figures and Plushies: Beyond the smaller blind box figures, POP MART also produces larger vinyl figures and plush dolls of “The Monsters,” catering to collectors who desire more substantial display pieces.³¹ The “MEGA Collection” offers premium, oversized art toys (400% and 1000% scale), turning Labubu and friends into significant art statements.

The Enduring Appeal

The charm of “Labubu The Monsters” lies in its ability to resonate with a broad audience. The characters’ “cute-creepy” aesthetic, combining adorable features with a hint of mischievousness, sets them apart from typical cute characters. This nuanced design allows for deeper emotional connection and personal interpretation. The blind box format adds an addictive element of surprise and anticipation, while the vibrant global community of collectors fosters a sense of belonging and shared passion.³²

Furthermore, “The Monsters” universe benefits from Kasing Lung’s continuous artistic involvement, ensuring that each new series brings fresh perspectives while staying true to the core essence of his creations. From being a niche art project to a global collectible phenomenon, “Labubu The Monsters” has cemented its place as a unique and beloved world, consistently bringing joy, surprise, and a touch of whimsical chaos to fans across the globe.³³