recent years, Canada has witnessed a surge in global pop culture trends that transcend borders, and one of the most fascinating cases is the rise of Labubu. Originally a niche collectible figure from Hong Kong’s creative toy scene, Labubu has now become a phenomenon that has Labubu captured the attention of Canadian fans. What began as an online craze has now found its way into physical retail spaces, including malls across major Canadian cities. This transition from online hype to mall reality reflects not only the growth of the brand but also the shifting dynamics of consumer behavior in Canada.
The Origins of Labubu
Labubu is part of the POP MART universe, a brand that specializes in collectible designer toys created by international artists. Designed by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, Labubu is a mischievous creature with large ears, pointed teeth, and an expression that exudes both playfulness and mystery. The figure quickly gained popularity in Asia, where blind-box culture—buying sealed packages without knowing which character you will get—has long been a major trend.
Through social media, unboxing videos, and online communities, Labubu’s popularity spread beyond Asia and reached collectors around the world. Canadian fans, already familiar with global pop culture imports like Funko Pops and Japanese anime merchandise, were quick to embrace Labubu as a fresh and exciting collectible.
The Online Hype
In Canada, the initial exposure to Labubu came primarily through online channels. Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube created a vibrant ecosystem of collectors who shared their finds, trades, and unboxings. The sense of mystery and surprise tied to blind-box collecting added an extra layer of excitement, encouraging fans to buy multiple boxes in the hopes of securing a rare figure.
Online resellers and specialty toy shops played a pivotal role in fueling the hype. With limited official distribution in Canada at the beginning, many fans turned to e-commerce platforms or imported products through independent sellers. This scarcity created a sense of urgency, and prices for rare Labubu figures skyrocketed on secondary markets. Collectors compared the thrill of finding rare Labubu variants to the hunt for trading cards or vintage sneakers, reinforcing the figure’s position as both a hobby and a status symbol.
The Shift to Physical Retail
While the online space helped cultivate an audience for Labubu in Canada, the real turning point came when POP MART began establishing a physical presence. Canadian malls, already hubs for youth culture and consumer trends, became the perfect environment for Labubu to move from niche online circles into mainstream visibility.
POP MART opened branded stores and kiosks in popular malls, bringing Labubu and its companion figures into direct contact with Canadian consumers. The physical retail experience added dimensions that online shopping could not replicate. Fans could now immerse themselves in colorful displays, themed environments, and in-person shopping events. For many, seeing Labubu in a storefront transformed the brand from an online curiosity into a tangible part of everyday life.
Why Malls Matter in Canada
The rise of Labubu in malls is not just about convenience. Canadian malls remain more than just shopping destinations; they are cultural spaces where people gather, explore, and interact with trends. By placing Labubu in malls, POP MART tapped into a social and experiential setting that amplified the brand’s appeal.
The tactile nature of blind-box collecting also benefits from in-person retail. Holding the box, feeling the anticipation, and sometimes trading with other shoppers on the spot creates a communal atmosphere that online platforms struggle to replicate. Malls also attract younger demographics, particularly teens and young adults, who are most engaged with global pop culture trends.
The Canadian Collector Community
As Labubu’s presence expanded in Canada, so too did its community. Online forums and local meetups have emerged, where collectors trade duplicates, showcase rare finds, and discuss upcoming releases. Events held at POP MART stores in Canadian malls often draw large crowds, demonstrating that Labubu has moved beyond being a solitary online hobby to becoming a shared cultural experience.
The Canadian collector community also reflects the diversity of the country. Fans of Labubu come from different backgrounds, yet they are united by their enthusiasm for creative design and storytelling. This inclusivity has helped strengthen the brand’s foothold in Canada, making it accessible not only to hardcore collectors but also to casual shoppers who encounter the figures in malls.
The Broader Cultural Impact
Labubu’s success in Canada highlights several larger cultural shifts. First, it demonstrates the growing influence of Asian pop culture in North America. Just as anime, K-pop, and Korean skincare have found devoted audiences in Canada, so too have designer toys like Labubu. This reflects a globalization of culture where trends are no longer confined by geography.
Second, Labubu illustrates the power of physical retail in an era often dominated by online shopping. While e-commerce played a critical role in the brand’s early success, its transition into malls shows that in-person experiences still hold immense value. The tactile, social, and aesthetic aspects of shopping cannot be fully replicated online, and Labubu has thrived by bridging both worlds.
Finally, the Labubu craze reveals how collectibles serve as a form of identity and community in today’s society. For many fans, owning Labubu figures is not just about the toys themselves but about belonging to a larger global movement. Collecting becomes a way to connect with others, express creativity, and engage in playful nostalgia.
The Future of Labubu in Canada
As Labubu continues to grow in Canada, its future looks promising. POP MART has already established multiple locations in malls, and there are signs that expansion will continue as demand rises. Collaborations with international brands and artists are likely to further fuel excitement, giving Canadian collectors even more to look forward to.
Beyond malls, Labubu could also become more visible at conventions, pop-up events, and cultural festivals across Canada. With its unique design and playful aesthetic, it has the potential to cross over into mainstream art and fashion spaces as well. As more Canadians discover Labubu, the line between collectible toy and cultural icon will continue to blur.
Conclusion
Labubu’s journey in Canada—from online hype to mall reality—tells a larger story about the evolving nature of consumer culture. What began as a niche LABUBU Box online trend has transformed into a mainstream retail experience, reshaping the landscape of malls and creating vibrant communities along the way. The figure’s rise demonstrates the enduring appeal of tactile, in-person shopping experiences, even in a digital age, and underscores the global reach of creative design.
For Canadian fans, Labubu is more than just a collectible; it is a symbol of shared culture, creativity, and the joy of discovery. Whether encountered through an Instagram post, a bustling POP MART store in a Toronto mall, or a trade at a local collector meetup, Labubu continues to capture imaginations and carve out its place in Canada’s cultural fabric.
