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Labubu takes the world by storm
Hayley Tam, King Ling College
Labubu, a line of collectable plush toys created by Hong Kong illustrator Kasing Lung, has seen recent popularity. The central figure, Labubu, is a monster with exaggerated teeth and a cartoonish smile.
This fluffy toy – with oversized ears, wide expressive eyes, and often a hat and scarf – has captivated many. On the resale market, Labubu-related items often sell for double or more of their original price. A human-sized first edition even sold at auction for about one million Hong Kong dollars.
While critics say Labubu is overrated, the question remains: why did it take the world by storm?
First, much of the craze was driven by celebrities. After Lisa from Blackpink expressed her love for Labubu, the character became associated with fashion.
Celebrities like Rihanna and Dua Lipa have also incorporated Labubu into their styling, sometimes pairing luxury handbags with Labubu pendants. Fans’ devotion to their idols fuels a strong desire to mirror their tastes as a form of connection. Many also emulate celebrity trends to keep up with fashion.
Second, Labubu’s “anti-aesthetic” nature relates to youth culture. Many popular characters go viral for their “cuteness” – Jellycat, Sumikko Gurashi and Chiikawa, for example.
In contrast, Labubu’s “ugly-cute” quality offers a different kind of emotional comfort. Young people today value individuality; the ugly-cute trend reflects a desire to challenge conventional standards. It also resonates with those who embrace imperfection in themselves.
Third, Labubu invites open-ended imagination. Unlike celebrities, whose public images are constrained by reality, or anime and game characters, whose traits are fixed by storylines, Labubu and other Pop Mart characters are not limited by age, language or culture.
They are narratively open, allowing fans to project their meanings and emotional connections onto them.
Lastly, blind-box marketing adds suspense and surprise. The unpredictability of having to open a box to discover the model you have bought creates a gambling-like thrill. A typical series includes multiple versions and a hidden edition. To get a favourite piece or complete a set, collectors often buy repeatedly or in bulk – fuelling the frenzy.
In short, Labubu’s rise stems from a potent mix of celebrity influence, anti-aesthetic appeal, imaginative openness and blind-box marketing. Amid the craze, it is important to consume rationally. Recent criticism of Labubu’s fans has sometimes crossed into disrespect for personal preferences. We should avoid amplifying malicious online comments and instead allow space for diverse tastes.
A masterclass in storytelling
Hylia Chan, St Paul’s Co-educational College Primary School
I unapologetically love the novel A Frozen Heart. The book may seem as if it is for children or too simple at first glance, but beneath its surface runs a tapestry of profound themes: the raw complexity of sisterhood, the turbulent journey of self-acceptance and the delicate art of navigating emotions.
Elsa, with her emotional depth, has always resonated with me. Her introversion, her struggle with navigating emotion and her quiet yet unwavering devotion to Anna are deeply relatable to me.
At first, I found Anna frustratingly impulsive and tactless, while Prince Hans was the villain I relished despising. But A Frozen Heart offered me a new perspective on the Disney film.
Experiencing the same events through Hans’ and Anna’s points of view was revelatory. The novel does more than retell the story; it unlocks it, dissecting motives and weaving psychological nuance into every scene.
Elsa’s complexity alone is enthralling, but seeing Anna’s and Hans’s internal conflicts elevates the narrative. For someone like me, who obsesses over subtext and the emotions behind dialogue, it feels like a masterclass in character depth.
The well-crafted dual narrative, which alternates seamlessly between Hans and Anna, left me in awe and eager to learn how it balances such contrasting voices with such fluidity.
And the themes! The book’s subtle yet powerful exploration of love, betrayal and self-discovery reaches beyond the film’s more superficial storytelling.
Words can plunge readers into a character’s psyche in ways visuals cannot, and A Frozen Heart wields that power brilliantly.
It transforms Hans from a one-dimensional villain into a chillingly plausible figure, laying bare his motives and forcing me to realise that past antagonists felt flat because I had underestimated how humanity, even in darkness, elevates a plot and captivates readers.
This book did more than entertain me; it taught me. Some dismiss fairy tales as immature, but A Frozen Heart proves that brilliance can bloom in any genre.
By embracing stories like this and studying their structure, emotional precision and fearless character work, we sharpen our own storytelling. That is why I cherish this book: it is both a mirror to the soul and a toolkit for any writer eager to grow.
The joy of reading
Renee Lam Wing-yau, Pui Kiu College
Rediscovering the joy of reading can be a transformative experience, enriching our lives in various ways.
In a world dominated by screens and digital distractions, turning to books offers a refreshing escape and a chance for deep engagement. Reading invites us into different worlds, allowing us to explore diverse perspectives, cultures and ideas.
One of the most significant benefits of reading is its ability to inspire empathy. By immersing ourselves in the lives of characters, we gain insights into their emotions and experiences, fostering a deeper understanding of others. In today’s interconnected world, compassion and understanding are essential.
Additionally, reading stimulates mental faculties. It enhances vocabulary, sharpens critical thinking and improves concentration. Engaging with complex narratives or thought-provoking non-fiction challenges our brains, making reading not just an enjoyable pastime but also a form of exercise for the mind.
Moreover, the ritual of reading can be a comforting routine. Whether it’s curling up with a book in a cosy chair or enjoying a few chapters before bedtime, these moments create a sense of tranquillity and reflection.
To rekindle this joy, one can start by choosing genres that genuinely interest them, setting aside dedicated reading time or joining a book club for shared experiences and discussions.
Ultimately, rediscovering the joy of reading can lead to personal growth, broader horizons and a more enriched life. So, pick up a book and embark on a journey that promises both adventure and introspection.
