When Did Labubus Come Out

Okay, let’s tackle the question that’s probably been bouncing around in your head: When did Labubus come out? If you’ve seen those wildly cute, squishable little creatures taking over your social feeds, you know the hype is real. But the answer isn’t as simple as a single date—it’s a story, and a fun one at that.

The First Labubu’s Big Debut

The very first Labubu character came out in 2015, created by the Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung. This wasn’t a toy launch—it was an illustration in a children’s book called The Monster Series. Yes, your favorite squishy monster started life as a watercolor painting of a grumpy, long-eared fairy.

Can you imagine that? A tiny, frown-faced character that would later inspire a global collecting craze was just sitting in a storybook. It’s a beautiful reminder that the best surprises often start small.

From Art Book to Pop Phenomenon

The real moment Labubus burst into the mainstream happened in 2019. That’s when the toy brand POP MART partnered with Kasing Lung to turn his illustrations into actual, huggable figures. The very first Pop Mart Labubu came out in December 2019 as part of a blind-box series called “The Monsters.”

And just like that, a niche art character transformed into a cultural icon. Suddenly, people weren’t just buying toys; they were hunting for rare ones, trading with friends, and building little worlds for their Labubus on their desks.

People Fighting Over Labubu

Why the “When” Matters for Your Fun

Knowing when Labubus came out isn’t just trivia—it’s a key to unlocking the joy of the hunt. If you’re new to collecting, you can now look up the first series and see how the designs evolved. You can appreciate that the early 2019 versions had a softer, more hand-drawn feel compared to the shiny, detailed ones dropping today.

This little piece of history makes every Labubu you own feel like a chapter in an ongoing story. You’re not just buying a plastic figure; you’re joining a community that started with a watercolor fairy in 2015 and grew into a global obsession.

The Real Magic Isn’t the Date

Here’s the truth: the exact date is fun to know, but it doesn’t define the magic. What really matters is that you found them now. Whether you just unboxed your first Labubu yesterday or you’ve been hunting since 2019, you’re part of the same silly, joyful ride.

What is a 'Labubu' and why does everyone seem to have it?

So go ahead—google that first 2015 illustration and compare it to the latest drop. See how the grumpy expression softened, how the ears grew a little perkier. Notice how you smile when you hold one. That’s the real release date: the moment you felt that spark of delight.

Let This Inspire You

Labubus came out because an artist let his imagination wander and a toy company took a chance on a frowning monster. That’s a beautiful lesson for all of us. Your weirdest, fluffiest idea might just be the next thing that brings people together.

So next time you see a Labubu, don’t just ask when it came out. Ask: “What little, unexpected thing in my own life is waiting to make someone smile?” The answer might just be funnier—and more inspiring—than you think. Happy hunting, and may your next blind box always hide a rare one.