Brook LABUBU: Soul King or Soul Stealer? Unpacking the Latest Art Toy Sensation

The world of art toys is no stranger to bizarre crossovers and unexpected collaborations. But the latest creation from Pop Mart, the Brook LABUBU, has sent ripples through both the One Piece anime and art toy communities. This fusion of the Soul King Brook and the mischievous elf LABUBU is either a stroke of genius or a step too far, depending on who you ask.

What Exactly IS a LABUBU, Anyway?

Before diving into the specifics of this anime-art toy mashup, let's get clear on who—or what—a LABUBU is. LABUBU is a character created by Hong Kong illustrator Kasing Lung, first appearing in his 2015 illustrated book series, The Monsters. These creatures are inspired by Nordic folklore, described as mischievous but well-meaning forest spirits. With their pointy ears, wide-set eyes, and jagged grin, LABUBUs have a distinctive, slightly unsettling, yet undeniably cute look.

Pop Mart partnered with Kasing Lung in 2019 to turn them into toys. The company describes the toys as possibly appearing “mischievous” while still being helpful and kind.

The LABUBU dolls are sold in “blind boxes,” meaning you don’t know which doll you will get. The brain reacts to blind boxes similarly to gambling, giving you a dopamine rush when unboxing and discovering what’s inside.

The Fusion: Brook Joins the Monster Tribe

Brook, the skeletal musician of the Straw Hat Pirates, is known for his distinctive appearance and quirky personality. Combining him with LABUBU creates a visually striking figure: Brook's afro, heart-shaped sunglasses, and signature attire are reimagined with LABUBU's characteristic features. The result? A collectible that's both familiar and strangely new.

Stunning Design or Sacrilegious Subversion?

The reception to the Brook LABUBU has been divided. Some fans praise the creativity of blending two iconic characters, appreciating the unique aesthetic and the fresh take on Brook's design. They see it as a fun and playful way to celebrate both One Piece and the art toy culture.

However, others view the fusion as a disrespectful alteration of a beloved character. Some One Piece purists argue that LABUBU's style clashes with the established aesthetic of the anime, resulting in a distorted and unrecognizable version of Brook.

Controversy and the Allure of the Ugly-Cute

Beyond the design debate, the Brook LABUBU also taps into the broader controversies surrounding LABUBU and Pop Mart. LABUBU has faced accusations of being demonic due to its mischievous appearance, with some social media users drawing comparisons to the ancient demon Pazuzu. These claims are largely unfounded, stemming from misinterpreted imagery and social media-fueled hysteria.

Despite the controversies, LABUBU's popularity continues to soar. The ugly-cute appeal, combined with the thrill of blind box collecting and limited-edition releases, drives a fervent fanbase. This has sometimes resulted in fights and sales being suspended. The Brook LABUBU benefits from this existing hype, further amplifying its visibility and desirability.

The Cultural Impact: More Than Just a Toy?

The Brook LABUBU, like other art toys, occupies a unique space in contemporary culture. It's a collectible, a fashion accessory, and a potential status symbol. The toy has become a means of self-expression and a way to connect with like-minded individuals.

However, the popularity of LABUBU also raises questions about consumerism and manufactured scarcity. Pop Mart's marketing strategies, including blind boxes and limited editions, create a sense of urgency and drive demand, potentially leading to overconsumption.

Final Verdict: A Must-Have or a Miss?

The Brook LABUBU is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon. Whether it's a stunning fusion or a subversive misstep is ultimately a matter of personal taste. However, its impact on the art toy scene and its ability to spark debate are undeniable. As LABUBU continues to evolve and collaborate with different franchises, it will be interesting to see how this mischievous elf continues to challenge our perceptions of art, collectibles, and the characters we love.

Ultimately, if you're a fan of One Piece, LABUBU, or just enjoy collecting unique and conversation-starting pieces, the Brook LABUBU might be worth considering. Just be prepared to embrace the ugly-cute and the potential for controversy that comes with it.