LABUBU phenomenon: when economic power and pounding advertising manage to clear any rubbish in the West

This study aims to critically analyze the Labubu phenomenon, not as a harmless toy, but as a cultural artifact symptomatic of a specific late-capitalist mode of production and consumption. It will introduce the figure of Labubu — an "ugly-cute" elf-like creature, created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung — and his explosive rise to global icon. This popularity is evidenced not only by sales, but by its adoption as a fashion accessory by world-famous celebrities such as Rihanna, David Beckham and Lisa of BLACKPINK, who have transformed a niche collector's item into a trendy accessory for bags and backpacks.