Which Celebrity Made Labubu Famous?

As one of Pop Mart’s most beloved IPs, Labubu’s sustained global popularity through 2026 is no accident—it is the result of deliberate, intelligent brand marketing. What makes Pop Mart’s success particularly noteworthy is its reverse growth path: unlike traditional luxury brands that often expand from developed markets to emerging ones, Pop Mart started in mainland China, expanded across Southeast Asia, and then entered mature markets like Europe, the U.S., Japan, and South Korea. This trajectory is considerably more challenging and speaks volumes about the company’s brand management prowess.

A key strategy in Pop Mart’s playbook has been celebrity endorsement and influencer marketing. Their first major foray into celebrity collaboration began during their Southeast Asian expansion. Pop Mart partnered with official entities in Thailand and Singapore to launch limited editions, building local credibility and buzz. But the real breakthrough came when they aligned with BLACKPINK’s Lisa.

• 10 Adorable Labubu Wallpapers for Your Phone – Cute & 4K!

• The Most Expensive Labubu: A Surprising Rise in the World of Designer Toys

• Why are Labubus so expensive?

As a Thai-born global superstar, Lisa became the perfect ambassador for Labubu. Her genuine affection for the character—often seen with Labubu in live streams, interviews, and social posts—created a powerful, organic connection. Labubu’s cute, quirky design resonated with Lisa’s personal style, and their frequent appearances together significantly boosted the IP’s visibility and desirability across Asia.

The “Lisa effect” sparked a wider trend among Thai celebrities, influencers, and high-net-worth individuals, who began incorporating Labubu into their daily outfits and public appearances. Media coverage amplified this phenomenon, turning Labubu into not just a toy, but a fashionable lifestyle accessory.

When entering Western markets, Pop Mart adeptly replicated this strategy. By seeding Labubu with A-list celebrities and influencers, they regenerated the same buzz in Europe and North America. Stars like Rihanna, Dua Lipa, Kim Kardashian, Madonna, Simone Biles, Hilary Duff, David Beckham, and Emma Roberts have all been spotted with Labubu, contributing to its cross-cultural, cross-demographic appeal.

Yet, if one name must be credited as the most influential figure in catapulting Labubu to global fame, it is undoubtedly Lisa of BLACKPINK. Her early and sustained association provided the IP with authenticity, widespread media traction, and a loyal fanbase that helped transition Labubu from a collectible toy into a global pop culture icon.

Pop Mart’s journey illustrates how strategic celebrity partnership—combined with strong product design and phased market entry—can build a toy brand into a worldwide phenomenon.