Labubu doll meets Karl Marx: Viral photo sparks online frenzy and debate

London: The Labubu doll, which has taken social media by storm, continues to win fans around the world. In a short span, it has captured global attention, with many eager to get their hands on one. A recent viral image shows a Labubu doll placed at the foot of Karl Marx’s grave in London’s Highgate Cemetery, sparking fresh conversations online.

The placement of the Labubu, a product of consumer culture, at the grave of Marx, an avowed critic of capitalism, has added to the intrigue. The photo, reportedly taken by a visitor, has become a talking point, especially since cemeteries like Highgate are increasingly viewed as cultural spaces. The cemetery, which houses the graves of several prominent figures, draws visitors who come both to pay respects and to experience the quietude of its tree-lined pathways.

The incident also reflects the growing popularity of “necrotourism,” a rising global trend where people visit cemeteries and sites associated with death or tragedy to explore history, art, and culture. What once may have been considered morbid has now evolved into a multimillion-dollar tourism sector, as per various media reports.

Labubu dolls are produced by Chinese brand Pop Mart. Their popularity soared after K-pop star Lalisa Manoban revealed her personal Labubu collection. Since then, demand has surged, with fans queuing online for the chance to buy the collectable figures.