Have you ever seen a tiny, fuzzy creature with pointy ears and a cheeky grin and wondered what it was? That’s likely a Labubu or Zimomo, two stars of Pop Mart’s “The Monsters” series that have taken the collectible toy world by storm. As a fan myself, I’m excited to share everything you need to know about these adorable yet mischievous characters. From their origins to collecting tips, here are the 10 essential things every Labubu and Zimomo fan should know.
Who Are Labubu and Zimomo?
Labubu and Zimomo are the heart of Pop Mart’s “The Monsters” series, a collection of collectible toys that blend cuteness with a touch of mischief. Labubu is a female elf-like creature with a round, furry body, wide eyes, pointed ears, and nine serrated teeth that form a playful smile. She’s known for her kind-hearted yet troublemaking nature, always eager to help but often causing chaos (Wikipedia).
Zimomo, on the other hand, is the male leader of the Labubu tribe. He’s larger, with a spiked tail and a rounder face, exuding a calm and sophisticated vibe. While Labubu is the playful troublemaker, Zimomo is the “cool older brother” who joins in the fun with style (Fig Palace). Together, they live in a whimsical forest inspired by Nordic fairy tales, captivating collectors worldwide.
The Creative Mind Behind the Monsters: Kasing Lung
The mastermind behind Labubu and Zimomo is Kasing Lung, a Hong Kong-born artist raised in the Netherlands. Lung’s love for fairy tales and Nordic mythology inspired him to create “The Monsters” series, starting with picture books in 2015. He initially sketched Labubu with a pen, bringing her mischievous spirit to life. His collaboration with Pop Mart in 2019 turned these characters into physical toys, skyrocketing their popularity (Labubu World).
Lung’s multicultural background blends East Asian pop culture with Nordic folklore, giving Labubu and Zimomo their unique charm. His designs, ranging from plush dolls to vinyl figures, have made “The Monsters” a global phenomenon, with sales reaching 6.3 billion Chinese yuan in the first half of 2024 (Wikipedia).
Spot the Differences: Labubu vs. Zimomo
At first glance, Labubu and Zimomo look similar, but there are key differences that set them apart. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Feature | Labubu | Zimomo |
|---|---|---|
| Gender | Female | Male |
| Tail | No tail | Spiked tail |
| Size | Smaller | Larger (twice the size in story) |
| Face Shape | Originally squarish, now similar | Rounder |
| Personality | Mischievous, carefree | Calm, leader-like |
Labubu’s bold, colorful designs often feature fun costumes like animals or holiday themes, appealing to fans who love playful aesthetics. Zimomo’s designs lean toward pastel colors and nature-inspired themes, attracting collectors who prefer serene vibes (Labubu World). Knowing these differences helps you choose which character suits your collection best.
Must-Have Labubu Series
Labubu’s popularity stems from her diverse series, each with unique themes and limited editions. Here are some top picks:
| Series Name | Release Date | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Time to Chill | Oct 31, 2022 | $69.99 | Playful designs with a relaxed vibe, perfect for casual collectors. |
| JUMP FOR JOY | May 25, 2023 | CNY 499 | Bold and adventurous, capturing Labubu’s energetic spirit. |
| Fall in Wild | Jul 12, 2024 | $84.99 | Wild-themed plush and keychains, ideal for nature lovers. |
| Let’s Checkmate | Feb 7, 2025 | $114.99 | Chess-inspired designs, showcasing Labubu’s strategic side. |
I recommend starting with the Fall in Wild series, available on Amazon, for its vibrant designs and affordable keychain option. The plush dolls are soft and durable, making them great display pieces. Always check for limited editions, as they sell out fast!
Top Zimomo Collectibles
Zimomo’s series are fewer but equally captivating, with a focus on rare, high-quality vinyl dolls. Here are two standout series:
| Series Name | Release Date | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| I FOUND YOU | Dec 15, 2023 | $179.99 | Features Zimomo’s larger body and tail, a rare collectible for dedicated fans. |
| ANGEL IN CLOUDS | Oct 25, 2024 | $289.99 | Silver-grey fur with metallic wings, resembling a dreamy angel. |
The ANGEL IN CLOUDS Zimomo doll, priced at SGD 299.90, is a recent release that’s already a collector’s favorite for its unique fur and adjustable wings (Bagaholicboy). You can find it on Pop Mart Australia. Its larger size (58 cm) makes it a stunning centerpiece for any collection.
Meet the Rest of the Gang
“The Monsters” series isn’t just about Labubu and Zimomo. Other characters add depth to the collection:
- Mokoko: A pink, female character with a heart-shaped nose and long lashes, known for her sweet designs (Toyland HK).
- Tycoco: Labubu’s skeleton boyfriend, often seen in plush dolls or as a quirky sidekick.
- Spooky, Pato, Yaya, Pippo: Unique monsters with their own personalities, less common but loved by niche collectors.
These characters often appear in blind boxes alongside Labubu and Zimomo, making every unboxing an adventure (Bagaholicboy).
Starting Your Collection: Tips and Tricks
Ready to dive into collecting? Here’s how to get started:
- Buy from Trusted Sources: Stick to official retailers like Pop Mart or Amazon to ensure authenticity.
- Understand Blind Boxes: These mystery boxes contain random figures, with “secret” or “chase” figures being rare and valuable. The thrill is in the surprise!
- Join Communities: Platforms like Reddit’s r/labubu offer advice and updates from fellow collectors (Reddit).
- Set a Budget: Prices range from $16.99 for keychains to $289.99 for rare vinyl dolls, so plan wisely.
Start small with a single blind box to experience the excitement, then expand to limited editions as you grow your collection.
Authenticity Matters: How to Spot Fakes
With Labubu and Zimomo’s popularity, counterfeit toys are a concern. Here’s how to ensure you’re getting the real deal:
- Check Packaging: Genuine Pop Mart products have high-quality boxes with clear branding and serial numbers.
- Verify Retailers: Buy only from authorized sellers like Pop Mart or trusted platforms like Amazon.
- Inspect Details: Authentic figures have precise stitching, vibrant colors, and no rough edges.
- Community Resources: Check forums like r/labubu for guides on spotting fakes (Reddit).
I once almost bought a fake Labubu keychain online, but the blurry logo on the packaging tipped me off. Always double-check before purchasing!
The Resell Market: Opportunity or Risk?
The resell market for Labubu and Zimomo is booming, with rare figures fetching double or triple their retail price. For example, limited-edition Labubu dolls from the WINGS OF FANTASY series have been resold for over $200, compared to their $119.99 retail price (Fig Palace).
Pros:
- Potential for profit, especially with rare “secret” figures.
- High demand driven by collectors and celebrity fans.
Cons:
- Risk of buying fakes in secondary markets.
- Prices can be unpredictable, depending on trends.
If you’re considering reselling, focus on limited editions and keep items in mint condition. However, collecting for enjoyment rather than profit is often more rewarding.
Labubu and Zimomo in the Spotlight
Labubu and Zimomo owe much of their fame to pop culture. In April 2024, Blackpink’s Lisa was spotted with a Labubu keychain, sparking a trend across Southeast Asia (Wikipedia). Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram are filled with unboxing videos and fan art, with hashtags like #Labubu trending globally.
Collectors also gather at events like the Pop Toy Show, where limited-edition releases cause a frenzy (Labubu World). Joining these communities, whether online or at conventions, connects you with fellow fans and keeps you updated on new drops.
Labubu and Zimomo are more than just toys—they’re a cultural phenomenon that brings joy to collectors worldwide. From their Nordic-inspired origins to their celebrity-driven fame, these characters offer something for everyone. Whether you’re unboxing your first blind box or hunting for a rare Zimomo vinyl doll, the world of “The Monsters” is full of excitement. Check out the latest series on Pop Mart or join the conversation on Reddit. Happy collecting!
