When Blackpink's Lisa shared an Instagram story in April showing a large Labubu plush toy and a Labubu charm in her bag, Labubu quickly became the talk of social media. Because of this, it became popular among K-pop fans and designer toy collectors.
At the height of Labubu mania, the online marketplace Carousell saw a huge increase in searches for Labubu items—growing more than 24 times from July to October. Listings for these collectibles have also increased, and Carousell has launched a campaign to help fans find rare items, such as “Dada” Labubu from the “Have A Seat” series with prizes.
Among Filipino collectors, some of the most popular series are the “Have A Seat,” “Macarons,” and “Lazy Yoga” Blind Box series. Also trending are plush favorites such as “Fall in Wild,” “Happy Halloween Party,” and “Wings of Fantasy.” Labubu-themed accessories such as clothes, bags, and shirts are also popular.
In a special preview of the pop-up, Pop Mart executive Jeremy Lee said Pop Mart is more than a shopping destination; it's an experience.
“Puwedeng mag-pose ang mga fans sa life-sized Hirono Mime Devilry statue at tuklasin ang mga karakter tulad nina Labubu, Molly, at Hirono sa mas kakaibang paraan,” ani Lee.
The Labubu craze has officially arrived in the Philippines, and it is attracting many fans and collectors. At the height of its popularity, collectible toy company Pop Mart opened its first pop-up location in the country at SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City on November 2. The store will be open until early 2025.
It came at the right time, as Labubu's popularity was on the rise thanks to celebrities like Lisa and local star Marian Rivera. Lisa's Labubu series “Fall in Wild” has sparked intense interest and has become the top-searched plush item on Carousell. When Kathryn Bernardo showed her "Wings of Fantasy" Labubu collection, Filipino fans were even more enthralled.
"We believe there is a boom in Southeast Asia, and we don't want to miss the Philippines," said Lee.
This opening is part of Pop Mart's broader plan to expand in Southeast Asia, with upcoming projects such as possible collaborations with Filipino artists.
“We are an art, culture, and entertainment company. We believe we have an impact on these industries. We bring the sense of design and sportsmanship. Every time we open our stores, the creative vibe of the country increases,” he added.
“Our mission is to bring inspiration, fun, and passion. Each character has a different story and unique personality—whether introverted or extroverted. If you love fantasy, there is something for everyone," he added.
Pop Mart's global reach now encompasses designer toys, theme parks, and digital entertainment. With popular IPs like Dimoo and Skullpanda, they see themselves as more than just a brand. Lee said, "Our goal is to incorporate creativity and fun into everyday life."
