The Labubu Have a Seat Series: Unveiling the Charm of Labubu’s Cozy Companions
Introduction: A New Perspective on Mischief – The Labubu Have a Seat Series
Labubu, the impish character with the signature toothy grin, has cemented its place as a cornerstone in the vibrant world of designer toys. Created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, Labubu’s captivating blend of cuteness and mischievous charm has fostered a global community of collectors. While many of Labubu’s iterations feature dynamic poses and elaborate themes, there’s a particular series that offers a more relaxed, yet equally enchanting, take on the beloved monster: the Labubu Have a Seat Series. This collection presents Labubu and its monster friends in cozy, seated positions, often crafted from soft, plush materials, inviting a sense of calm and companionship into any collection.
Among the delightful characters in this series, one has garnered particular attention and affection: Ququ Labubu. With its distinct mint green hue and wide, expressive eyes, Ququ has become a fan favorite, embodying the serene yet playful essence of the “Have a Seat” concept. This article will delve deep into the charm of the Labubu Have a Seat Series, exploring its origins, detailing the unique characteristics that set it apart, showcasing its various characters (including a special focus on Ququ Labubu), providing essential tips for collecting these soft companions, and discussing their significant impact on the broader Labubu universe.
Prepare to discover the quieter, more contemplative side of Labubu, where every figure invites you to take a moment and simply “have a seat.”
The Evolution of Labubu: From Vinyl Vigilance to Plush Poise
To appreciate the tranquility of the Labubu Have a Seat Series, it’s helpful to understand Labubu’s journey and the artistic evolution that led to this charming collection. Labubu first emerged from the imaginative universe of Kasing Lung’s “The Monsters”, a whimsical realm populated by an array of fantastical creatures. Lung’s distinctive style, characterized by a fusion of fairytale elements and a slightly eerie aesthetic, quickly captivated audiences. Early Labubu figures were predominantly made from vinyl, featuring active, standing poses that conveyed a sense of mischievous energy, ready for adventure or playful pranks. These original vinyl figures established Labubu’s iconic look: the prominent, slightly overgrown teeth, large curious eyes, and elongated, agile limbs.
As Labubu’s popularity soared, particularly through its partnership with POP MART, the brand began to explore new materials and poses to broaden its appeal and offer diverse collecting experiences. This expansion was a natural progression, allowing collectors to engage with Labubu in different ways – not just as a static display piece, but as a softer, more tactile companion. The move towards plush or vinyl plush materials marked a significant departure from the hard vinyl, opening up new possibilities for textures, cuddliness, and a more intimate form of interaction.
The Labubu Have a Seat Series represents a deliberate shift towards a more relaxed and endearing aesthetic. While the core mischievous personality of Labubu remains, the seated pose imbues the characters with a sense of calm, contemplation, or simply weary cuteness after a long day of monster adventures. This series tapped into a desire among collectors for figures that could comfortably sit on a desk, a bookshelf, or even a bed, serving as cozy companions rather than just dynamic display items.
It offered a refreshing contrast to the often energetic and active poses of previous Labubu figures, showcasing the character’s versatility and appealing to a broader range of collector tastes. This strategic evolution not only expanded Labubu’s design repertoire but also solidified its status as a multifaceted and enduring icon in the designer toy world.
Understanding the Have a Seat Concept: Design, Materials, and Expressions
The Labubu Have a Seat Series is defined by its core concept: characters rendered in a relaxed, seated posture. This seemingly simple design choice has a profound impact on the figures’ aesthetic and appeal. Instead of dynamic action, these figures exude a sense of tranquility, introspection, or simply comfortable repose, making them perfect desk companions or decorative accents.
Unique Design Elements
- The Seated Pose: Every figure in the Labubu Have a Seat Series is designed to sit upright, typically with legs extended forward or slightly bent. This pose makes them incredibly stable for display, allowing collectors to place them on various surfaces without the need for stands. The uniformity of the seated pose also creates a harmonious collection when displayed together, despite the individual variations in design.
- Proportion and Form: While retaining Labubu’s signature large head and relatively smaller body, the proportions are subtly adjusted to emphasize the seated form. The limbs often appear slightly shorter or more compact, contributing to their endearing, squishy appearance.
- Minimalist Backgrounds: The seated pose often means these figures are presented without complex bases or accessories that might obstruct their form, emphasizing the character itself.
Materials and Tactile Experience
A key distinguishing feature of the Labubu Have a Seat Series (especially the V2 version, which includes Ququ) is the use of “vinyl plush”. This innovative material blends the best of both worlds:
- Vinyl Core/Structure: The figures often have a rigid vinyl inner structure that maintains their shape and allows for precise molding of features like the face and hands.
- Flocked or Plush Exterior: Over this vinyl core, a soft, velvety, or “flocked” material is applied. This gives the figures a fuzzy, plush-like texture that is incredibly pleasant to touch. It makes them feel warmer and more inviting than traditional hard vinyl figures, enhancing their “cozy companion” appeal. This flocked texture also subtly diffuses light, giving the figures a softer appearance.
- Durability and Cleanliness: While offering a soft feel, the vinyl plush construction tends to be more durable and easier to clean than traditional fabric plush toys, making them more suitable for display in various environments.
Expressive Faces: Eyes and Mouths
Despite the relaxed poses, the faces of the figures in the Labubu Have a Seat Series are highly expressive, conveying a range of emotions that add to their charm:
- Eye Variations: The series often plays with different eye states. Figures might have wide, open eyes that convey excitement or curiosity (like Ququ Labubu). Others might have partially closed, “blinking” eyes, suggesting contentment or a sleepy demeanor. Some even feature completely closed eyes, evoking a sense of peaceful slumber. This variety ensures that each figure has a unique personality.
- The Signature Grin: Labubu’s iconic mischievous grin with its visible teeth is always present, though its intensity can vary depending on the figure’s overall expression. Even in a seated, relaxed pose, that hint of playful mischief is never far away. The slight upturn of the mouth, even in “sleeping” figures, provides that unmistakable Labubu charm.
The combination of the carefully designed seated posture, the inviting vinyl plush material, and the nuanced facial expressions makes the Labubu Have a Seat Series a distinct and beloved subset within the broader Labubu universe. Each figure, including the celebrated Ququ Labubu, offers a sense of endearing calm that stands out in a collection.
Meet the Cozy Companions: Characters of the Have a Seat Series (with a Spotlight on Ququ Labubu)
The Labubu Have a Seat Series is comprised of a delightful cast of characters, each bringing its own unique color and personality to the collection. While the exact lineup can vary slightly between different “Have a Seat” releases (e.g., V1, V2), the core concept of cozy, seated monsters remains. Let’s explore some of these charming companions, with a special focus on the much-loved Ququ Labubu.
The typical lineup in the “Have a Seat Vinyl Plush Blind Box (V2)” series, which includes Ququ, consists of six regular figures, one special figure, and a rare secret chase:
- Sisi Labubu: Often seen in a cheerful yellow or orange hue, Sisi embodies bright energy even in its seated pose. Its expression is usually wide-eyed and joyful, radiating warmth.
- Hehe Labubu: Characterized by soft blues or purples, Hehe might feature a slightly more whimsical or pensive expression, perhaps with eyes half-closed in contemplation.
- Baba Labubu: A grounding presence, Baba often appears in earthy tones like brown or deep green. Its expression is typically serene, conveying a sense of calm and stability.
- Zizi Labubu: With vibrant pinks or reds, Zizi brings a playful and energetic vibe to the seated series. Its eyes might be bright and alert, or playfully winking.
- Dada Labubu: Dada usually sports cooler tones like grey or pale blue, often with a more neutral or slightly sleepy expression, perfect for a cozy corner.
- Duoduo (Secret Chase Figure): The elusive secret figure of the series, Duoduo is exceptionally rare and highly sought after. Its design is typically unique and stands out from the regular lineup, making it the ultimate prize for collectors of this series. The appearance of Duoduo often changes with each edition, adding to the mystery and excitement.
Spotlight on Ququ Labubu: The Mint Green Delight
Among this delightful ensemble, Ququ Labubu stands out as a particular favorite for many collectors. Its popularity stems from a combination of its appealing color scheme and its characteristic expression.
- Distinctive Color: Ququ Labubu is immediately recognizable by its soothing mint green color. This soft, appealing hue is unique within the series and evokes a sense of freshness, tranquility, and whimsical charm. It’s a gentle color that complements many display environments and stands out subtly among brighter or darker figures.
- Expression of Joy and Curiosity: Ququ Labubu typically features wide, excited eyes paired with Labubu’s classic mischievous grin. This combination conveys a genuine sense of happiness, curiosity, and innocent wonder. Unlike some of its “Have a Seat” companions that might be sleepy or contemplative, Ququ projects an energetic yet calm joy, making it incredibly endearing. Its expression is often described as “pure joy” or “gleeful.”
- Tactile Appeal: Being part of the “Vinyl Plush” series, Ququ Labubu shares the soft, flocked texture of its peers. This tactile element enhances its appeal, making it pleasant to hold and display. The mint green flocking feels particularly inviting.
- Popularity and Collectibility: Due to its charming design and unique color, Ququ Labubu is one of the more popular figures within the “Have a Seat V2” blind box series. This popularity can sometimes make it slightly harder to acquire than other common figures, particularly if you’re trying to pull it from a random box. Its distinct look makes it a must-have for collectors aiming to complete the set or simply those drawn to its specific aesthetic. Discussions in collector communities often highlight Ququ Labubu as a prized possession.
The meticulous design of each character within the Labubu Have a Seat Series, from their specific color palettes to their varied expressions and the unifying plush material, ensures that while they share a common theme, each figure, particularly Ququ Labubu, retains its distinct charm and collectibility. These cozy companions are a testament to Labubu’s versatility and its enduring ability to capture hearts in every pose.
The Collector’s Journey: Navigating the Labubu Have a Seat Market
Collecting the Labubu Have a Seat Series, including the coveted Ququ Labubu, follows many of the general principles of designer toy collecting, but with specific considerations due to the blind box format and the plush material. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a newcomer, strategic approaches can enhance your collecting experience.
Where to Acquire Your Cozy Companions:
- Official POP MART Channels (Primary Market):
- POP MART Online Store & App: The most reliable source for new releases. Stay updated on release dates for new “Have a Seat” series directly from POP MART’s official global website or through their dedicated app. The app can sometimes offer early access or exclusive drops.
- POP MART Physical Stores: If available in your region (e.g., in major cities worldwide), these stores provide the opportunity to purchase blind boxes in person, offering the authentic unboxing experience right away.
- Authorized Retailers: Numerous online and brick-and-mortar stores are authorized distributors of POP MART products. These are trustworthy sources for genuine Labubu Have a Seat figures at standard retail prices. Verify a retailer’s authorization if you’re unsure.
- Secondary Marketplaces (Resale):
- eBay: A popular platform where you can find individual Labubu Have a Seat figures (including Ququ Labubu) from collectors looking to sell duplicates or full sets. When buying unboxed figures, always check seller ratings and examine photos carefully for condition.
- Specialized Collectible Forums & Groups: Platforms like Facebook collector groups (e.g., “Labubu Collectors,” “Designer Toy Trading”) or Discord servers are excellent for connecting directly with other enthusiasts. You can often find people selling specific figures they don’t want or trading duplicates, which can be a cost-effective way to get the exact Labubu Have a Seat figure you’re missing, like Ququ Labubu, without the gamble of blind boxes. These communities often have systems to ensure safe trading.
- Consignment Shops/Online Resellers: Some online stores specialize in reselling collectible toys, offering authenticated second-hand figures.
Tips for “Pulling” or Acquiring Specific Figures:
- The Full Case Advantage: For collectors aiming to complete a full set of the Labubu Have a Seat Series, purchasing a sealed full display case is generally the most effective strategy. A complete case (usually containing 6 or 12 blind boxes, depending on the series size) is designed to guarantee one of each “regular” figure in the series, significantly reducing the chances of duplicates and increasing the odds of pulling the rare secret figure (like Duoduo).
- Trading Duplicates: If you buy individual blind boxes and end up with duplicates, leverage the collector community for trades. Someone else might have a duplicate of the figure you need (like Ququ Labubu) and be looking for one of yours.
- Direct Purchase on Secondary Market: If your goal is simply to get Ququ Labubu (or any other specific figure) without the element of chance, buying it directly from a reseller who has already unboxed it is the most straightforward method. Be prepared to pay a premium for popular or rarer figures.
- “Feeling” the Box (Less Effective for Plush): While some collectors attempt to “feel” blind boxes for specific figures, this method is significantly less effective for the “Vinyl Plush” series due to the soft, malleable material inside the box. It’s also generally discouraged by retailers as it can damage the packaging.
Authenticity Checks for Labubu Have a Seat Figures:
The popularity of figures like Ququ Labubu means counterfeits exist. Here’s how to ensure authenticity:
- Official POP MART Packaging: Genuine Labubu Have a Seat boxes feature high-quality printing, crisp images, and official POP MART branding. Look for the holographic sticker and the verifiable QR code on the box. Scan the QR code with the official POP MART app to confirm authenticity.
- Quality of Plush Material: Authentic figures, especially Ququ Labubu, will have a soft, even, and well-applied flocked texture. Fakes often have rough, uneven, or thin flocking that feels cheap. The plush material shouldn’t shed excessively.
- Paint Application & Detail: While predominantly plush, the facial features (eyes, mouth, teeth) on genuine Labubu figures are cleanly painted with sharp lines. Labubu’s signature nine teeth should be clearly defined. Fakes often have blurry or imprecise paintwork.
- Embossed Markings: Check the bottom of the figure (or within the seat area) for embossed POP MART logos or Kasing Lung’s signature/brand mark. These should be clear and well-defined.
- Character Card: The accompanying character card should be of high print quality, with vibrant colors and clear text.
Care and Display of Your Cozy Companions:
- Dust Protection: The flocked surface of Labubu Have a Seat figures can attract dust. Display them in enclosed glass or acrylic cabinets to minimize dust accumulation. If dusting is needed, use a very soft brush (like a clean makeup brush) or a can of compressed air gently.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Like all collectibles, direct sunlight can fade the colors of the plush material over time. Display your figures, especially the mint green Ququ Labubu, away from windows or in areas with indirect lighting.
- Gentle Handling: While soft, the figures are still art collectibles. Handle them gently to avoid damaging the flocked surface or any small attached parts.
- Cleaning: For minor marks on the flocked surface, a very slightly damp (water only) microfiber cloth can be used with extreme caution, dabbing gently rather than rubbing. Test on an inconspicuous area first. Avoid harsh chemicals.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure a satisfying and authentic collecting journey for your Labubu Have a Seat Series figures, including the delightful Ququ Labubu.
The Enduring Impact of the Labubu Have a Seat Series
The Labubu Have a Seat Series, particularly with the widespread adoration for figures like Ququ Labubu, has left a significant mark on the designer toy market and the broader Labubu phenomenon. Its impact extends beyond mere sales figures, influencing trends, fostering community engagement, and showcasing the artistic versatility of the Labubu brand.
Expanding Labubu’s Aesthetic and Appeal:
The “Have a Seat” concept introduced a new dimension to Labubu’s character. While earlier figures often emphasized dynamic, mischievous poses, this series allowed Labubu to portray a sense of calm, introspection, or simply adorable laziness. This expansion of emotional range broadened Labubu’s appeal to collectors who might prefer a more relaxed aesthetic, or who seek figures that offer a sense of comfort and companionship. The move to a plush-like material (vinyl plush) also opened up the tactile experience, drawing in new collectors who appreciate softer, more huggable collectibles. Ququ Labubu, with its gentle color and serene yet happy expression, perfectly embodies this expanded aesthetic, becoming a flagship figure for the series’ unique charm.
Enhancing Display and Collectibility:
The uniform seated pose of the Labubu Have a Seat Series makes them incredibly display-friendly. Collectors can arrange them easily on shelves, desks, or in dioramas, creating cohesive and visually appealing setups. This ease of display, coupled with their adorable nature, has made them popular choices for social media sharing, further increasing their visibility and desirability. The series also encourages completionism, as collectors enjoy seeing the entire cozy ensemble together. The hunt for specific, popular figures like Ququ Labubu within the blind box system adds an exciting challenge that fuels collector engagement.
Fostering Community and Connection:
The blind box nature of the Labubu Have a Seat Series naturally cultivates a strong sense of community among collectors. The excitement of unboxing, the sharing of “pulls” (especially when a rare figure like Duoduo or a beloved one like Ququ Labubu is revealed), and the active trading of duplicates all contribute to a vibrant online and offline collector culture. Discussion forums, social media groups, and unboxing videos dedicated to the series highlight the shared passion and camaraderie. This collective enthusiasm reinforces brand loyalty and creates a supportive environment for both new and experienced collectors.
Influencing Future Designs and Trends:
The commercial success and collector appeal of the Labubu Have a Seat Series have undoubtedly influenced subsequent designer toy releases from POP MART and other companies. It demonstrated a strong market demand for figures that prioritize softness, comfort, and more contemplative poses, moving beyond purely action-oriented or static display pieces. This trend towards “comfort collectibles” reflects a broader desire for items that bring a sense of calm and cheer into people’s lives. The success of the vinyl plush material has also encouraged its use in other series and character lines.
Enduring Legacy:
The Labubu Have a Seat Series, and its standout figures like Ququ Labubu, are more than just blind box toys; they are miniature cultural artifacts that embody a moment in time where artistic expression, collectibility, and comforting aesthetics converge. They represent a softer, gentler side of the mischievous monster, proving that even Labubu needs a moment to relax and just have a seat. Their enduring popularity ensures their place as a beloved chapter in the ever-unfolding story of Labubu.
Conclusion: The Gentle Allure of Labubu’s Resting Charms
The Labubu Have a Seat Series offers a unique and incredibly endearing facet of the beloved Labubu universe. It represents a beautiful evolution in character design, moving from dynamic poses to a tranquil, seated posture that invites warmth, calm, and companionship into any space. This series has successfully blended the iconic mischievous charm of Labubu with a softer, more approachable aesthetic, largely thanks to the innovative use of vinyl plush materials.
At the heart of this cozy collection lies Ququ Labubu, a figure that has captured the hearts of many with its distinctive mint green hue, wide, joyful eyes, and irresistibly soft texture. Ququ embodies the very essence of the “Have a Seat” concept: a delightful companion that radiates gentle happiness and a serene presence. Its popularity is a testament to the series’ ability to resonate with collectors seeking not just a display piece, but a comforting artistic presence.
The journey of collecting the Labubu Have a Seat Series is one filled with the familiar thrill of the blind box, but also with the unique satisfaction of building a collection of characters that exude peace and quiet joy. Whether you’re carefully curating a full set, patiently hunting for the elusive Duoduo, or simply hoping to unbox your very own Ququ Labubu, this series offers a consistently rewarding and charming experience. As Labubu continues to delight fans worldwide, the “Have a Seat” figures will undoubtedly remain a cherished part of its legacy, proving that sometimes, the most captivating adventures begin when you simply take a moment to sit down.