Behind THE MONSTERS: Unpacking the Whimsical World of Kasing Lung's LABUBU

In the vibrant world of art toys and collectibles, few characters have captured hearts and sparked global trends quite like Labubu. This mischievous, elf-like creature with its signature pointy ears and serrated grin is the brainchild of Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung. But who is Kasing Lung, and what are the stories behind Labubu and the rest of The Monsters?

The Artist: Kasing Lung's Journey

Born in 1972, Kasing Lung's artistic journey began in Hong Kong before his family moved to the Netherlands during his childhood. Growing up without digital distractions, Lung immersed himself in storybooks and sketching, drawing inspiration from ancient European elf legends and Nordic folklore. At that time, there were no game consoles or computers, so I had to draw dolls with a pen, so I had the idea of painting fairy tales since I was a child, Lung mentioned in an interview. He later studied and worked in Belgium, becoming the first Chinese artist to receive the national Illustration Award. Today, he divides his time between studios in Belgium and Hong Kong, nurturing his richly layered visual universe.

The Monsters: A World of Whimsy and Wonder

In 2015, Kasing Lung introduced 'The Monsters', a series of characters embodying both light and darkness, deeply influenced by Nordic mythology. This whimsical world includes characters like Zimomo, Tycoco, Spooky, and Pato, each with their unique charm. But at the heart of it all is Labubu, the most iconic Monster, known for pointy ears and a serrated grin.

Though their mischievous appearance suggests trouble, Labubu is kind-hearted and always eager to help, even if their good intentions often lead to chaos. Some things I wanted to do but didn't dare to do, I let Labubu do, Lung explains, highlighting the character's embodiment of freedom and courage.

Labubu's Rise to Fame

Labubu was first introduced in 2015 with Monsters figurines produced by How2Work. The toy gained wider recognition in 2019 following a collaboration with Pop Mart, a partnership that propelled Labubu into the mainstream. This collaboration allowed Pop Mart to produce and distribute Labubu and her companions as collectible figures, sparking a surge in global demand.

With over 300 versions released, from plush toys to vinyl figures, Labubu has become a global pop culture icon. Celebrities and collectors alike have embraced Labubu, further fueling the craze. The cheerful grin reminds everyone that no matter what challenges we face, a smile can lift our spirits and lead us toward happiness.

The Appeal of Labubu

What makes Labubu so appealing? Perhaps it's the blend of cuteness and mischief, the hint of darkness beneath the cheerful exterior. Or maybe it's the connection to childhood nostalgia and the whimsical world of fairy tales. Whatever the reason, Labubu has tapped into something deeper than just a fleeting trend: emotional resonance, nostalgia, and the aesthetics of the inner child.

Kasing Lung isn't just designing toys; he's reimagining what contemporary art can feel like. With Labubu, he has created a character that traverses culture, psychology, and aesthetics, as welcome in a collector's cabinet as it is on the cover of a fashion magazine. At its heart, Lung's work offers a way to reconnect with playfulness, even amidst uncertainty. It's a world of monsters — but monsters who speak of vulnerability, care, and the beautiful strangeness of being human.

Beyond the Toy: Kasing Lung's Artistic Pursuits

While Labubu dominates streetwear stores and collector forums, Kasing Lung's artistic endeavors extend far beyond toys. He has focused on painting, hosting solo exhibitions under the guidance of Takashi Murakami, marking a notable milestone in his evolving artistic career. His original illustrations have fetched impressive sums at auction, and he continues to exhibit his work internationally. In summer 2025, Lung plans to release a new book featuring Labubu as the main character.

Conclusion

The story of Labubu is more than just a tale of a popular toy; it's a testament to the power of imagination, the allure of whimsical characters, and the ability of art to connect with people on a deeply emotional level. Kasing Lung's creation has not only captured the hearts of collectors worldwide but has also blurred the lines between art, toys, and storytelling, creating a lasting legacy in the world of contemporary art and collectible culture.