Kubo
The Quiet Confidence of the Buzzcut Boy
Contents
Overview
Kubo is a cool, understated designer toy character from POP MART (with some releases via Meow Studio), created by artist Bao Bao. Debuting around 2023–2024, Kubo is a buzzcut boy with a perpetually blank, stoic expression that hides a warm, adventurous, and surprisingly playful heart underneath. Unlike emotional introspective IPs like Hirono or dreamy ones like Dimoo, Kubo embodies "quiet confidence"—a reserved exterior masking passion, decisiveness, and individuality. He often appears in customizable, gaming-inspired outfits, weapons, and hair colors, letting collectors "select their character" for personalized vibes. Themes blend urban cool, gaming culture, and subtle rebellion, making Kubo a standout for fans of low-key edgy aesthetics. In 2026, Kubo remains a strong IP with high collector buzz, new drops like Breathing In Series, and premium collabs.
Creator & Brand
Creator: Bao Bao
Bao Bao is an illustrator and art toy designer with a love for animals, food, and heartfelt expression. He advocates individuality, freedom, and innocence, channeling these into Kubo to convey that "everyone deserves to be loved and protected." Bao Bao's style features clean lines, cool minimalism, and hidden warmth—Kubo looks reserved but is decisive and confident when it matters. He works with both POP MART and Meow Studio (for some exclusives).
- •Illustrator & art toy designer
- •Advocates individuality & freedom
- •Style: Clean lines, cool minimalism
Brand: POP MART & Meow Studio
POP MART handles most Kubo releases through blind boxes and global stores (500+ worldwide), while Meow Studio drops select editions. The blind box model fuels collecting, with Kubo positioned as an accessible, customizable "cool kid" IP. In 2026, Kubo sees anniversary momentum, zodiac ties, and fashion crossovers, solidifying its place in POP MART's diverse lineup.
- •POP MART: Global blind box releases
- •Meow Studio: Select limited editions
- •Positioned as accessible "cool kid" IP
Major Series & Editions
Blind Box Series
Format
- 12 regular designs
- 1 secret (chase) figure
- Occasional hidden editions
- Gaming/custom themes
Themes
- Select Your Character Series (2023–2025)
- Breathing In Series (July 2024)
- Walks of Life Series (Aug 2023)
- Sunset City Series (2025)
- Angel's Poem Series
- 24/7 You Series (Nov 2025)
Large-Scale Editions
Large-scale releases include the 200% premium "Tin Me" pewter collab with Royal Selangor (limited 2,000 pieces) and various signed event exclusives.
Market Impact
Kubo stands out as POP MART's "buzzcut bad boy"—cool without trying, resonating in a market of cuter IPs. It appeals to young adults, gaming fans, streetwear lovers, and those wanting understated cool. The IP has strong social media display value and is growing globally via collabs and pop-ups.
Global Reach
Why It's Successful
- ✓Stoic-yet-warm personality
- ✓Customizable/gaming themes
- ✓Clean, display-friendly design
- ✓Rarity mechanics (secrets)
- ✓Steady hype as Labubu alternative
Collecting Guide
Retail Pricing
Single Blind Box
$10 – $20 USD
Full Set (12)
$120 – $250 USD
Secondary Market
Secrets from "Select Your Character" and "Breathing In" series resell for 3–10× retail. Premium pewter editions like "Tin Me" command high resale values ($900–$1,200).
Collecting Strategy
Where to Buy
Official Channels
- POP MART Global Stores
- POP MART Website & App
- Meow Studio (Instagram)
Secondary Platforms
- StockX
- eBay
- Mercari Japan
- Reddit r/PopMartCollectors
Related Designer Toys
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