Chinese customs authorities have intensified efforts to prevent smuggling of Labubu dolls, as the worldwide craze for the gremlin-like toys most often seen dangling from bags shows no sign of slowing down.
Created by Hong Kong-born illustrator Kasing Lung, as part of a whimsical collection of characters dubbed The Monsters inspired by Dutch and Nordic folklore, the Labubus’ appeal lies in their ugly-cute aesthetic.