Labubu, the mischievous-looking designer toy from the The Monsters series by Kasing Lung and POP MART, has taken the collectibles world by storm. Its quirky smile, pointed ears, and eerie eyes have become a pop culture phenomenon, especially in Asia and among vinyl toy collectors. But behind the cute and creepy charm lies an internet-fueled theory that’s been gaining traction: Is Labubu actually based on a demon?
Let’s dive deep into the Labubu demon theory—a wild mix of speculation, symbolism, and eerie similarities that fans can’t stop discussing.
Who Is Labubu?
Labubu is one of the key characters in the collectible art toy series The Monsters. Designed by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, Labubu appears in many forms: explorer, ghost, vampire, pirate, wizard, and more. With its jagged grin, devilish horns, and childlike yet unsettling expressions, it instantly stands out from traditional “cute” designer toys.
Originally marketed as a forest creature, Labubu is described by the creator as “a naughty monster with a kind heart.” But some fans aren’t buying that innocent backstory.
The Demon Connection: Where It All Began
The Labubu demon theory began circulating in 2023, when social media users started noticing the striking resemblance between Labubu and various figures from folklore, especially in European and East Asian mythology. A few key comparisons include:
1. Krampus (Central European Folklore)
Krampus is a horned, anthropomorphic figure who punishes naughty children during the Christmas season. Labubu’s sharp smile and long ears resemble early Krampus illustrations. Just like Labubu is marketed as mischievous, Krampus is known as the dark counterpart to Saint Nicholas.
2. Japanese Yokai
In Japanese folklore, Yokai are supernatural creatures that range from playful tricksters to terrifying demons. Fans have compared Labubu to creatures like the Tengu or Kawa-no-Kami, who are known for their elongated features, mischievous behavior, and sometimes protective roles.
3. The Toothy Grin: A Demonic Symbol?
Historically, sharp teeth and wide grins are often associated with demons in ancient art. Labubu’s exaggerated mouth has led fans to draw comparisons to demonic entities that lure or scare humans using deceptive smiles.
Symbolism in Labubu’s Outfits
- Another layer fueling the demon theory is the way Labubu is dressed in certain limited-edition series:
- Labubu as a vampire – Suggests ties to undead or demonic folklore.
- Labubu as a ghost – Indicates a spiritual or supernatural nature.
- Labubu as a shaman or sorcerer – Echoes occult symbolism found in historical demonology.
- The “Monster” series name itself – Implies these creatures are more than just playful figurines.
- While these could be creative costumes, fans argue they hint at a deeper meaning: Labubu might represent a shape-shifting demon who appears in different forms.
What Does the Creator Say?
Kasing Lung has never confirmed or denied any demonic influence in Labubu’s design. However, in interviews, he has said that his monsters come from his childhood dreams and nightmares. He’s fascinated by creatures that aren’t clearly good or evil—much like demons in myth who can be protectors or destroyers.
This ambiguous moral identity makes Labubu ripe for demonic interpretation.
The Collector Community’s Take
Many collectors see the theory as part of Labubu’s appeal. Instead of being scared off, fans are drawn in by the mystery and eerie symbolism.
In fact, some collectors intentionally seek out darker versions of Labubu, like the “Shadow Labubu” or “Witch Labubu” editions, which sell out instantly and command high prices on resale markets. If you’re curious about how much these versions cost or how pricing varies across styles and series, check out this detailed look at how much a Labubu doll really costs.
Cute, Creepy… or Cursed?
The Labubu demon theory may never be officially confirmed, but it’s hard to ignore the visual and symbolic clues. Whether intentional or subconscious, there’s something undeniably otherworldly about this little monster.
Its origins in dreamlike visions, its costume choices, and its unsettling charm all point toward a deeper mythological foundation.
Whether you believe Labubu is a demon in disguise or just a mischievous collectible with a big smile, one thing’s certain: this toy has stirred something powerful in the imaginations of fans around the world.
