Popular mascot Labubu was presented with the honourary title of “Amazing Thailand Experience Explorer” during a welcome ceremony at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport on Jul 1, 2024. SINGAPORE: Chinese toys are becoming increasingly popular in Southeast Asia, with Thailand recently teaming up with popular Chinese mascot Labubu to boost tourism in the kingdom.
Local media also cited famous K-pop band Blackpink’s Lalisa “Lisa” Manobal as a reason for Labubu’s sudden surge in popularity in the region. In April, the popstar posted several pictures of herself holding a Labubu toy on Instagram, which led to high demand for the toy among members of the public. The trip was part of a campaign organised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand and Pop Mart, and marked a precursor to next year’s festivities commemorating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and China.
A life-sized Labubu mascot arrived in Bangkok on Jul 1, 2024 for a four-day visit to explore the Thailand's landmarks and culture. Like Pop Mart, 52Toys has collaborated with other existing franchises and characters such as Tom and Jerry, Disney, and Manga series Crayon Shin-chan as part of their collections.