Close Menu
News JournosNews Journos
  • World
  • U.S. News
  • Business
  • Politics
  • Europe News
  • Finance
  • Turkey Reports
  • Money Watch
  • Health
Editors Picks

Trump Announces Pardon for Sheriff Convicted of Bribery

May 26, 2025

U.S. Government Facing Shutdown After Midnight

September 30, 2025

Small Businesses Seek Exemptions from Tariffs Amidst Trump Policies

April 25, 2025

Trump Administration Reduces COVID Funding by $11.4 Billion for Local Health Departments

March 26, 2025

Tesla Showroom in Texas Attacked with Incendiary Devices, Police Report

March 25, 2025
Facebook X (Twitter) Instagram
Latest Headlines:
  • Trump’s Proposed Plan for Gaza Peace: Key Details Unveiled
  • Arizona Woman Accused of Aiding North Korean Workers to Breach US Companies
  • El Salvador Man Sentenced to 30 Years for Rape of 11-Year-Old in Virginia Beach
  • Germany Anticipates Modest Growth with Merz’s €500 Billion Overhaul Plan
  • Man Charged with Arson in Pacific Palisades Fire
  • AKP Chairman Resigns Amid Political Turmoil
  • Workplace Deaths Rise: 206 Workers Killed in September Across Construction and Agriculture
  • Israel and Hamas Agree on Hostage Release and Partial Troop Withdrawal
  • Increasing Cannabis Use Among Seniors: Reasons and Trends
  • AI-Driven Curriculum Replaces Teachers at $40,000-a-Year School
  • Dolly Parton Assures Fans She Is Not Dying After Sister’s Prayer Request
  • Domino’s Unveils First Major Redesign in 13 Years
  • Manchester Synagogue Attacker Swears Allegiance to Islamic State Prior to Assault
  • Senate Fails to Reach Agreement on Day 8 of Government Shutdown
  • Auto Industry Faces Turmoil as EU Implements New Steel Tariffs
  • FOMC Predicts Two Additional Rate Cuts by End of 2025
  • Air Traffic Control Shortages Contribute to U.S. Flight Delays, FAA Reports
  • COVID Mask Mandates Reinstated in Blue-State County Due to Increased Risk
  • Boston Pro-Palestinian Protest Escalates into Violent Riot, 13 Arrested
  • Israel Commemorates Two Years Since Hamas Attack Amid Ongoing Gaza War Reflections
Facebook X (Twitter) Instagram
News JournosNews Journos
Subscribe
Wednesday, October 8
  • World
  • U.S. News
  • Business
  • Politics
  • Europe News
  • Finance
  • Turkey Reports
  • Money Watch
  • Health
News JournosNews Journos
You are here: News Journos » Europe News » Concerns Rise Over TikTok’s ‘Creepy’ Doll Obsession
Concerns Rise Over TikTok's 'Creepy' Doll Obsession

Concerns Rise Over TikTok’s ‘Creepy’ Doll Obsession

News EditorBy News EditorMay 29, 2025 Europe News 5 Mins Read

Labubu dolls, whimsical yet unsettling figurines created by artist Kasing Lung, have captured the fascination of collectors and enthusiasts across the globe. Initially introduced as part of a picture book series titled “Monsters,” these eccentric toys gained immense popularity after their collaboration with toymakers Pop Mart in 2019. However, recent incidents in the UK involving scuffles among eager fans have led Pop Mart to suspend sales in its UK stores, sparking debates about the phenomenon of adult collectors driven by social media trends.

Article Subheadings
1) Overview of Labubu Dolls
2) The UK Sales Suspension
3) The Influence of Social Media
4) Market Demand for Labubu
5) The ‘Kidult’ Phenomenon

Overview of Labubu Dolls

The Labubu dolls, characterized by their unusual blend of cuteness and eeriness, were created by Kasing Lung, a renowned artist from Hong Kong. Initially introduced as part of a picture book series titled “Monsters,” these dolls were transformed into collectible figurines through a partnership with Pop Mart, a company known for its unique toy offerings. Launched in 2019, the dolls feature fluffy bodies, playful expressions, and razor-sharp grins, contributing to their distinctive presence. Over the years, they have become symbolic of a broader trend where adult consumers are increasingly drawn to collectibles traditionally aimed at children.

The UK Sales Suspension

In recent developments, Pop Mart announced the suspension of Labubu dolls in all of its UK stores, which will remain in place until June. This decision followed alarming reports about a chaotic scene at one London store where fans reportedly queued overnight to secure the latest editions of the dolls. The situation escalated into a confrontation, leading to a fight between employees and customers who were frustrated by the sudden scarcity of the items.

“People were shouting, basically saying there were no more Labubus left,”

recounted one customer who witnessed the incident. This decision by Pop Mart has sparked outrage amongst fans, many of whom feel their favorite collectibles are being unfairly restricted.

The Influence of Social Media

Social media has undeniably played a pivotal role in the rising popularity of Labubu dolls. TikTok, in particular, is credited with fueling the trend, especially after Lisa, a member of the acclaimed K-pop group Blackpink, was spotted carrying one on her bag. As of now, there are over 1.4 million posts tagged with #Labubu on TikTok, showcasing a plethora of collections, unboxings, and even DIY projects where fans crochet their own versions of the dolls. The spontaneity of Pop Mart’s blind boxes, combined with limited-edition drops, has created a sense of excitement that resonates particularly well with consumers in today’s fast-paced market.

Market Demand for Labubu

In terms of pricing, Labubu dolls in the UK typically range from £13.50 to £50, with rare editions fetching even higher prices on the resale market. This price fluctuation is often driven by resellers who buy items in bulk with the intent of marking them up for profit, leaving genuine fans frustrated when they cannot find the dolls at retail prices. With growing demand and continuing online hype, it is clear that Labubu dolls have carved out a niche in the collector’s market, appealing to both casual buyers and serious collectors.

The ‘Kidult’ Phenomenon

The allure of Labubu dolls ties into a broader cultural trend known as ‘kidulting,’ where adults buy toys and collectibles that they once enjoyed during their childhood. Various factors contribute to this phenomenon, such as individuals delaying parenthood and the pervasive sense of anxiety present in contemporary society. Research has suggested that approximately one in five toys and games are now purchased by consumers over the age of 18, marking a significant shift in consumer demographics. As the pressures of daily life mount, many adults seek solace in nostalgic and playful objects, contributing to a burgeoning market that continues to grow.

No. Key Points
1 Labubu dolls were initially created as part of a picture book series and grew in popularity through Pop Mart.
2 Sales of Labubu dolls have been suspended in the UK due to safety concerns and incidents at stores.
3 Social media, particularly TikTok, has significantly influenced the dolls’ popularity and collector trends.
4 Labubu dolls are priced between £13.50 and £50, with resellers contributing to market difficulties for genuine buyers.
5 The trend of ‘kidulting’ highlights a growing market where adults are increasingly buying collectibles.

Summary

The recent turmoil surrounding Labubu dolls encapsulates the intricate dynamics of contemporary consumer culture. From their inception as whimsical art to their current status as highly sought-after collectibles, these dolls have ignited both passion and controversy. As sales are suspended due to safety concerns, it remains to be seen how this will impact their popularity moving forward. The rising ‘kidult’ phenomenon reflects a broader societal trend of nostalgia and escapism, intertwining with the influence of social media that has fueled demand and excitement in the collector’s market.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What are Labubu dolls?

Labubu dolls are unique figurines created by artist Kasing Lung, featuring a blend of cuteness and eeriness. They originated from a picture book series and gained fame through their collaboration with Pop Mart.

Question: Why has sales been suspended in the UK?

Sales of Labubu dolls in the UK have been suspended due to potential safety concerns following chaotic incidents in stores, including customer altercations.

Question: What influences the popularity of Labubu dolls?

The popularity of Labubu dolls has been significantly influenced by social media platforms like TikTok, where users share their collections and creative projects, driving a sense of excitement among fans.

Brexit concerns Continental Affairs Creepy Cultural Developments Doll Economic Integration Energy Crisis Environmental Policies EU Policies European Leaders European Markets European Politics European Union Eurozone Economy Infrastructure Projects International Relations Migration Issues Obsession Regional Cooperation Regional Security rise Social Reforms Technology in Europe TikToks Trade Agreements
Share. Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIn Email Reddit WhatsApp Copy Link Bluesky
News Editor
  • Website

As the News Editor at News Journos, I am dedicated to curating and delivering the latest and most impactful stories across business, finance, politics, technology, and global affairs. With a commitment to journalistic integrity, we provide breaking news, in-depth analysis, and expert insights to keep our readers informed in an ever-changing world. News Journos is your go-to independent news source, ensuring fast, accurate, and reliable reporting on the topics that matter most.

Keep Reading

Europe News

Germany Anticipates Modest Growth with Merz’s €500 Billion Overhaul Plan

5 Mins Read
Europe News

Auto Industry Faces Turmoil as EU Implements New Steel Tariffs

7 Mins Read
Europe News

UK Police Disrupt Gang Allegedly Smuggling 40,000 Stolen Phones to China

6 Mins Read
Europe News

Global M&A Activity Surges Amid Megadeals and Rate-Cut Expectations

5 Mins Read
Europe News

Czech Elections: Babiš Expected to Forge Independent Path in EU

7 Mins Read
Europe News

Former Tesla Board Member Reveals Strategy for Capitalizing on the EV Boom

6 Mins Read
Journalism Under Siege
Editors Picks

Trump Introduces Two New Tariffs on “Liberation Day” April 2

April 2, 2025

Retail CEOs Warn Trump Tariffs May Result in Empty Shelves

April 24, 2025

Walz Calls on Democrats to Intensify Opposition Against Trump

June 1, 2025

Trump to Meet Global Leaders in DC Amid Ongoing Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks

February 23, 2025

Trump Secures Rapid Senate Confirmations for Key Cabinet Positions

February 23, 2025

Subscribe to News

Get the latest sports news from NewsSite about world, sports and politics.

Facebook X (Twitter) Pinterest Vimeo WhatsApp TikTok Instagram

News

  • World
  • U.S. News
  • Business
  • Politics
  • Europe News
  • Finance
  • Money Watch

Journos

  • Top Stories
  • Turkey Reports
  • Health
  • Tech
  • Sports
  • Entertainment

COMPANY

  • About Us
  • Get In Touch
  • Our Authors
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms and Conditions
  • Accessibility

Subscribe to Updates

Get the latest creative news from FooBar about art, design and business.

© 2025 The News Journos. Designed by The News Journos.

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

Ad Blocker Enabled!
Ad Blocker Enabled!
Our website is made possible by displaying online advertisements to our visitors. Please support us by disabling your Ad Blocker.
Go to mobile version