Scalping Labubu plush dolls in blind boxes is nothing new, given their worldwide appeal; however, a special edition that sold for HK$38,800 at a recent auction has sparked renewed excitement online.
A Fa Pau (paper floral shrine) Association in Kowloon Bay hosted a celebration dinner for the Tin Hau Festival on Monday (Apr 21), where a charity auction was organized to raise funds with a selection of objects undergoing a blessing ritual.
Among the common offerings, such as gold jewelry and paintings, the most standout item was Zimomo, a character from the Labubu series, dressed as the "Great Sage Sun Wukong" --the classic novel character who gained supernatural powers through Taoist practices.
The auction began with a starting bid of HK$28,800 for the Zimomo figure, which ultimately sold for HK$38,800.
Master Szeto Ken, who participated in the dinner, performed "kaiguang" -- a blessing ritual -- on all auction items including Zimomo.
After infusing auspicious chants, he stated that the Zimomo figure has been transformed into a blessed object and believed it will bring luck and prosperity, as well as be beneficial for business.
Worshipping Labubu in Thailand?
According to Szeto Ken, any object can theoretically undergo the ritual, which is why items such as wallets and pens are often found in temples.
The master further explained that the decision to include the Zimmo figure in the auction was the event organizer's decision, who considered it a trendy item worth a try.
The master also shared a different type of "kaiguang" ritual practiced in Thailand, where masters will invite specific deities into appointed objects, including the Labubu figures, often accompanied by incense as a form of worship.
However, he emphasized that different religions may have various practices, and the worship of Labubu is specific to Thailand.
Additionally, he referenced rumors that some Taiwanese attempted similar rituals for Zimomo but were rejected after "Jiaobei," known as Moon block divination, to determine the gods' will.
(Phoebe Poon)
