From Beyonce’s Cowboy Carter World Tour to Elon University’s campus, junior Andrew Kochman’s Labubu has been with him every step of the way.
“She goes everywhere with me — in the car, on campus, on a plane,” Kochman said. “She’s been to four states.”
Though Pop Mart, a Chinese company that sells collectables, introduced the toys in October 2023, during this past summer, only one thing has been coming up on students' social media: Labubus. The plushies come in different series or themes such as “Big into Energy” and “Have a Seat,” and due to high demand, each blind box can range from $30 to $100.
“I spent $90,” Kochman said. “I’m proud of it.”
Freshman Mareli Aureoles’ brother sells Labubus as a side hustle. He gifted her one after she graduated from high school.
“Honestly, at first I was like ‘What even are Labubus?’ Because I only ever heard the hate,” Aureoles said. “But when I saw them I was like ‘I want one.’”
Despite both Kochman and Aureoles’ love for their little monsters, Labubus has received a lot of hate.
“The main critique that people have is they think they’re ugly,” Kochman said. “I think that’s just jealousy. I think people are upset that they don’t have one.”
Despite this, Kochman finds having a Labubu serves as a creative outlet. He dresses up his Labubu, named “Loyalty,” and he hopes that others can admire the furry plushie.
“We should all take some time to love our Labubus and really appreciate the joy that the Labubus brings us all,” Kochman said. “And maybe you guys should give Labubus a shot too.”