Labubu figures spotted at the 2026 World Cup opening ceremony
Popular collectible Labubu figures appeared among fans at the World Cup opening ceremony, highlighting the global rise of 'kidult' culture.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0 / Author: Danilo Borges/ copa2014.gov.br Licença Creative Commons Atribuição 3.0 Brasil
The 2026 World Cup opening ceremony captured the world's attention not only for its musical performances but also for the unexpected presence of a global pop-culture phenomenon. Labubu figures, the popular art toys created by artist Kasing Lung, were spotted among the fans in the stadium, quickly becoming a talking point across social media.
These characters are a key part of the rise of 'kidult' culture, a trend where adults maintain consumption habits typically associated with childhood, such as collecting toys and entertainment items. Their appearance at one of the most-watched sporting events on the planet underscores how these art toys have moved beyond niche collector circles into fashion and mainstream entertainment.
The success of the figures, produced by Pop Mart, coincides with the company's official expansion into Brazil. The presence of Labubu at the World Cup ceremony serves as a high-profile validation of the brand's influence on young audiences and fans of design collectibles worldwide.