Labubu: Gaga over furry doll with a smirk

People seek connections with anthropomorphised products because they can provide a sense of companionship. Research shows that after a rough day, turning to a familiar, smiling character can feel comforting, almost like having a buddy around.

- Yamini Chinnuswamy

Serrated teeth upturned in a smirk, and a seemingly evil glint in the eyes. These are the signature attributes of Labubu, a character in the Pop Mart line of figurines and collectibles that has taken the world by storm.

But Labubu, created by Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung in 2015, is no nefarious character.

The pastel furry toy has been described as "kind-hearted", her smirk an indicator of mischief rather than signs of a villainous disposition.

This is despite the sheer amount of illicit and unlawful activity she has elicited in Singapore this past year, from children manhandling claw machines to steal the dolls within to food outlets selling unauthorised Labubu-inspired confectionery.