What Is The Difference Between Labubu and Zimomo?

June 15, 2025 Labubu Expert Collectible Guides 8 min read

If you're new to the world of Pop Mart collectibles, you might be wondering about the difference between two of their most popular characters: Labubu and Zimomo. While both are part of "The Monsters" series created by artist Kasing Lung, these adorable creatures have distinct characteristics that set them apart, from their physical appearances to their design aesthetics.

The Origins of The Monsters

Before diving into the differences, it's worth understanding where these charming monsters came from. "The Monsters" were originally created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, who drew inspiration from Nordic folklore and mythology from his childhood in the Netherlands. The characters first appeared in picture books before being transformed into collectible figures by Pop Mart.

Labubu vs. Zimomo: Key Differences

Feature Labubu Zimomo
Physical Appearance Smaller size, no tail Larger size, has a tail
Personality Mischievous and playful Gentle and dreamy
Design Style Bold, colorful outfits Soft, pastel aesthetics
Collector Appeal Adventurous and fun Tranquil and introspective
Notable Series Energy Series, Exciting Macaron, Coca-Cola Faith, Mauer, Dahood
Celebrity Endorsements BLACKPINK's Lisa, Rihanna South Korean influencers

Labubu: The Mischievous Monster

Labubu is characterized by its playful, bold personality and mischievous spirit. With a big head, wide grin featuring nine sharp teeth, and expressive eyes, Labubu has become the face of Pop Mart's monster collection and the star of the highly sought-after Labubu Energy series.

Physically, Labubu is smaller than Zimomo and notably lacks a tail. Its compact size made it perfect for the keychain series that propelled it to global fame, particularly the "Exciting Macaron" collection that became a fashion statement when spotted on celebrities' designer bags.

Looking for authentic Labubu near you?

Use our store locator tool to find official retailers carrying genuine Labubu figures, including the latest Energy series!

In terms of design themes, Labubu tends to appear in more vibrant, fun costumes – including animals, holiday themes, and creative outfits. The character's expressions often convey excitement, surprise, or playfulness.

"Labubu's charm lies in its mischievous nature - it's the impish troublemaker you can't help but love." - Kasing Lung, Creator

Zimomo: The Gentle Dreamer

Zimomo, by contrast, is designed as the leader of the monster tribe. It features a more rounded body, peaceful expression, and notably, doe-like eyes that create a gentler appearance. The most obvious physical difference is Zimomo's distinctive tail, which Labubu lacks, along with its generally larger size.

The character's aesthetic tends toward dreamy, peaceful themes. Zimomo frequently appears in pastel colors, floral patterns, and themes inspired by nature and the night sky. Its personality is portrayed as more introspective and calm compared to the energetic Labubu.

Collectors who appreciate tranquility and soothing designs often gravitate toward Zimomo figures, which create a different mood in a collection display.

The Monsters Family: Beyond Labubu and Zimomo

While Labubu and Zimomo are the most recognized characters from The Monsters series, the family extends to other beloved figures:

  • Mokoko - Recognizable by its pink fur and distinctive heart-shaped nose
  • Tycoco - A skeletal monster with a surprisingly friendly demeanor
  • Zimm - A smaller relative of Zimomo with different proportions

Each character brings unique charm to the Pop Mart universe, creating a diverse collection that appeals to different collector preferences.

The Labubu Energy Series: A Special Collection

One of the most popular recent Labubu releases is the Energy series (also called High Energy Ahead), featuring vibrant energy-themed figures with each color representing a different emotional power:

  • Red Labubu Energy - The courage to love others and yourself
  • Purple Labubu Energy - The luck of a green light all the way
  • Green Labubu Energy - The inner force of gentle growth

The Labubu Energy series has become particularly collectible, with a standard distribution of 6 regular models (1:6 probability) and 1 hidden rare model (1:72 probability). The Energy series showcases Labubu's playful character through bright colors and dynamic poses, contrasting with Zimomo's typically more serene presentations.

Beware of Lafufu knockoffs!

With the rising popularity of the Labubu Energy series, many counterfeit versions (known as "Lafufu") have appeared on the market. Learn how to identify authentic Labubu vs Lafufu knockoffs.

Collecting Both: Tips for Monster Enthusiasts

Many collectors enjoy both Labubu and Zimomo for their complementary aesthetics. When building a collection, consider mixing the mischievous energy of Labubu with the dreamy tranquility of Zimomo for a balanced display.

Limited edition collaborations featuring both characters are especially valuable, with secondary market prices often reaching 5-7 times the original retail value. For new collectors, we recommend starting with a few pieces from each character to appreciate their distinct charm before focusing on completing specific series.

Where to Find Authentic Labubu and Zimomo Near Me

Finding authentic Pop Mart figures is crucial to building a valuable collection. You can locate genuine Labubu and Zimomo figures at:

  • Official Pop Mart stores in major shopping malls
  • Authorized toy retailers with Pop Mart sections
  • Pop Mart's official online store and authorized online retailers
  • Limited-time Pop Mart pop-up shops and convention booths

Use our store locator tool to find the closest retailer carrying authentic Labubu collectibles in your area.

The Final Verdict: Labubu vs Zimomo

While Labubu has achieved greater mainstream recognition (especially after becoming a fashion accessory with the Energy series), Zimomo maintains a dedicated collector base who appreciate its unique aesthetic and dreamy quality. Neither character is "better" than the other – they simply appeal to different aspects of what makes these designer toys so captivating.

Whether you're Team Labubu or Team Zimomo (or like many collectors, appreciate both equally), understanding their differences enhances the collecting experience and helps you build a more curated collection that matches your personal style.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Labubu and Zimomo from the same designer?

Yes, both Labubu and Zimomo were created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung as part of "The Monsters" series. They share the same universe but have distinctive design features that set them apart.

Which is more valuable, Labubu or Zimomo?

Value varies by specific figure and rarity. Generally, limited editions of either character can be valuable, though Labubu's mainstream popularity has driven up prices for rare pieces, particularly from the Energy series. Chase figures (1:144 ratio) from either character typically command the highest prices.

How can I find Labubu Energy series near me?

The Labubu Energy series is available at official Pop Mart stores, authorized retailers, and select online platforms. Use our store locator to find the nearest authorized retailer carrying the Energy series collection.

How can I tell if my Labubu is real or a Lafufu knockoff?

Authentic Labubu figures feature high-quality materials, precise paint application, official packaging with holographic stickers, and clean seam lines. Lafufu knockoffs typically show sloppy paint jobs, visible rough seams, and cheaper materials. Learn more in our Lafufu identification guide.

Labubu Expert - Designer toy collector and Pop Mart specialist

About the Author

Labubu Expert

A passionate collector of designer toys with over 5 years of experience in the Pop Mart community. Specializes in The Monsters series and has one of the most complete Labubu and Zimomo collections in North America, including the full Labubu Energy series.

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