have been keeping up with global toy and collectible trends, you’ve probably seen an odd, wide-eyed, mischievous little creature popping up across social feeds, toy stores, and collector showcases. This quirky character, with its whimsical expression and instantly recognizable face, is known as Labubu. Originating from the collaboration between Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung and Pop Mart, Labubu has become a phenomenon in Asia and beyond. And now, the plush monster trend is spreading north, making waves in Canada as Pop Mart continues its global expansion.
This blog explores how Labubu captured international attention, why Canadians are embracing this collectible culture, and what its presence means for fans, collectors, and pop culture enthusiasts.
The Rise of Pop Mart and Designer Toys
Pop Mart, a Chinese company founded in 2010, has become a leader in what is known as the “art toy” or “designer toy” market. Unlike traditional toys aimed primarily at children, these collectibles bridge the gap between art and play. Pop Mart tapped into a growing demand for limited-edition collectibles that combine the creativity of independent artists with mass-market accessibility.
Through blind box packaging—a format where buyers don’t know which figure they’ll get—Pop Mart added mystery and excitement to the collecting experience. Among its many collaborations, Kasing Lung’s Labubu quickly rose to become one of its most iconic characters. With its mischievous personality and quirky, almost eerie design, Labubu represents the playful unpredictability of the designer toy movement.
Who Is Labubu?
Labubu might look like a monster at first glance, but it’s far from frightening. With wide, toothy grins, pointy ears, and expressive eyes, Labubu is equal parts adorable and strange. It comes in a variety of costumes and styles, from pirates to fairies, forest explorers to seasonal editions. Each version tells a story, making it less of a toy and more of a narrative art piece.
The character reflects the creative vision of Kasing Lung, whose illustrations often feature fantastical worlds filled with peculiar yet lovable creatures. Labubu embodies the spirit of imagination, blending innocence with a slightly mischievous twist. That unique mix has allowed it to resonate with collectors of all ages, particularly young adults who grew up with vinyl toy culture and now want to indulge in collectibles that double as art.
Labubu’s Arrival in Canada
In the past few years, Pop Mart has aggressively expanded outside Asia, setting up shops in major cities like Los Angeles, London, and Tokyo. Canada was the next logical step, as the country has a vibrant pop culture scene and a strong appetite for collectibles. Pop Mart’s entry into the Canadian market has been met with enthusiasm, with Labubu taking center stage as a fan favorite.
From Toronto to Vancouver, Pop Mart’s retail presence has begun to grow, with specialty stores, pop-up events, and collaborations with local retailers introducing Canadians to the blind box experience. Social media has amplified the craze, as Canadian collectors share their “unboxings,” trade figures, and showcase their growing Labubu collections.
Labubu’s arrival also connects Canada to a broader global community of Pop Mart enthusiasts. Canadian fans now participate in international discussions, swaps, and exhibitions, adding to the sense of global belonging that Pop Mart has carefully cultivated.
Why Canadians Are Falling in Love with Labubu
The success of Labubu in Canada is not accidental. Several factors explain why this whimsical monster has struck a chord with Canadian audiences.
Firstly, Canada has a rich tradition of supporting art, culture, and creativity. Labubu is not just a plush toy—it is a piece of art that allows fans to connect with the vision of an international illustrator. For young adults, particularly those who appreciate unique aesthetics, owning a Labubu figure is akin to owning a small, affordable piece of contemporary art.
Secondly, Canada’s multicultural identity plays a role. Many Canadians are deeply connected to Asian culture, whether through heritage, travel, or exposure to global trends. The rise of K-pop, anime, and Japanese and Chinese street fashion in Canada has prepared a fertile ground for collectibles like Labubu.
Lastly, there is the community aspect. Collecting Labubu is not just about buying toys—it is about sharing experiences. Fans join local collector groups, attend conventions, and participate in online forums. This sense of belonging makes the trend more meaningful than just a commercial product; it becomes a lifestyle.
The Blind Box Experience in Canadian Context
A key part of Labubu’s appeal is the blind box format. Each purchase carries an element of surprise, as you never know which character variation you’ll receive. This unpredictability has created a culture of trading and community building among fans.
In Canada, this trend resonates particularly well with millennials and Gen Z, who grew up with collectible card games, capsule toys, and digital loot boxes. The thrill of discovery is universal, but in the Canadian market, it pairs especially well with the rise of online sharing. TikTok and Instagram are filled with Canadian collectors filming their blind box openings, capturing the joy, disappointment, or excitement that comes with each reveal.
Labubu as a Lifestyle Statement
For many Canadians, collecting Labubu is not just about toys—it’s about personal expression. These quirky figures often end up displayed in bedrooms, workspaces, or even fashion accessories. Some fans carry mini Labubu charms on their backpacks, while others build elaborate display shelves to showcase their growing collections.
This lifestyle element has expanded Labubu’s reach beyond collectors to casual fans who may buy just one or two pieces as a form of decoration or self-expression. Labubu fits seamlessly into Canada’s growing interest in “kawaii culture,” a Japanese term for cute aesthetics that has influenced everything from stationery to streetwear.
Pop Mart’s Future in Canada
With Labubu leading the charge, Pop Mart is poised to expand further in Canada. Retail stores are likely to increase, along with collaborations with Canadian brands and artists. The future might include limited-edition Labubu releases exclusive to the Canadian market, as well as themed pop-up events that bring fans together in new ways.
The brand also has an opportunity to connect with Canadian art communities, as the designer toy movement overlaps with urban art, illustration, and digital design. Pop Mart’s collaborations with Canadian creatives could give rise to new characters and series that reflect local culture while still resonating globally.
A Cultural Bridge Through Collectibles
Ultimately, Labubu’s arrival in Canada represents more than just the expansion of a brand. It is a cultural bridge connecting Canadian fans to an international art movement. Through this quirky plush monster, Canadians are engaging with Asian art, sharing experiences with fans across the world, and finding joy in the act of collecting.
Labubu’s story is one of imagination, creativity, and community. Its presence in Canada highlights how global trends can adapt to local cultures, creating a shared sense of wonder and playfulness. Whether you are a seasoned collector or someone who has just discovered Pop Mart, Labubu invites you into a world where art meets fun, and where every blind box carries the thrill of possibility.
Conclusion
As Pop Mart continues its Canadian journey, Labubu stands at the forefront of a growing movement that blends toy collecting with art appreciation. Its success reflects not only clever design and marketing but also the universal human desire for play, surprise, and connection.
For Canadians, Labubu is more than just a plush monster—it is a symbol of global creativity arriving at their doorstep. The trend shows no signs of slowing down, and as Pop Mart deepens Labubu Doll its roots in Canada, Labubu is set to become a permanent fixture in the country’s pop culture landscape.
Whether you stumble upon one in a local store, trade for a rare edition at a convention, or watch an unboxing online, Labubu’s mischievous grin is here to stay. And for collectors across Canada, that’s a trend worth celebrating.
