Lapopo Doll: Between Global Popularity and Satanic Conspiracy Theories

In recent years, the Labubu doll has emerged as a global cultural phenomenon, capturing the attention of millions of people worldwide, from toy collectors to celebrities like BLACKPINK's Lisa and Rihanna. However, this doll, which initially seemed to be a symbol of childhood and creativity, has sparked controversy due to its alleged association with Pazuzu, a mythical demon from Babylonian and Assyrian mythology. This article explores Labubu's story, its origins, the reasons for its popularity, the controversies surrounding it, and the facts behind the rumors, while analyzing the cultural and psychological dimensions that have contributed to the hype.

The origin of the Lapopo doll

The Lapopo doll is part of the “The Monsters” series designed by Hong Kong artist Kasing Long in 2015. It is produced and distributed by Popmart, a Chinese company specializing in collectible toys sold in “blind boxes,” where buyers don’t know which doll they will receive until they open the box. Lapopo has a unique appearance: large eyes, pointed ears, sharp, protruding teeth, and soft fur, giving it a cute yet whimsical feel. According to the artist, the design was inspired by imaginary creatures from Norse mythology, but the doll itself is not associated with any specific religious or mythological context.

Lapopo has achieved tremendous commercial success. In 2024, the "Monsters" series generated revenues of 3.04 billion Chinese yuan (approximately $420 million), and some rare models have fetched prices as high as $170,000 at auctions worldwide. Part of this success is due to Popmart's clever marketing strategy, which exploited the element of surprise in blind boxes, along with the doll's appearances with global celebrities, making it a fashion and pop culture icon.

Controversy: Lapopo and Pazuzu

The controversy surrounding Lapopo began when users on social media platforms, such as TikTok and X, linked the doll's name to Pazuzu, a mythical demon from Mesopotamian (Babylonian and Assyrian) civilizations. Depicted in ancient mythology as a fearsome creature with eagle wings, a terrifying face, and sharp teeth, Pazuzu became popular in Western culture through his appearance in the popular horror film The Exorcist (1973) as a symbol of evil and demonic possession. The similarity between the names "Lapopo" and "Pazuzu," along with certain features such as sharp teeth and a wide smile, led some to hypothesize a connection between the two.

The rumors were amplified by TikTok videos, where users claimed the doll caused strange phenomena, such as nightmares, hearing mysterious voices, scratches on the body, or a feeling of suffocation during sleep. Some went further, claiming that Labobo was a “portal to evil” or carried a “demonic spell.” A leaked image of the doll without its outer covering (fur) revealed a bald plastic head with frightening features, further fueling the controversy, with some describing it as a “childhood nightmare.” In Saudi Arabia, some warned against the doll, suggesting it could be used to summon spirits or carry negative energy.

Official reactions

The company responded Pop Mart She categorically denied these allegations, stating that Labobo is merely a fantasy artwork inspired by Norse mythology, and has no connection to Pazuzu or any satanic symbols. Casing Long He explained that the doll aims to combine cuteness and whimsy as part of its artistic appeal, and that any resemblance to Pazuzu is purely coincidental. The company also confirmed that the doll has undergone rigorous safety testing and is made from materials safe for children and adults.

On the other hand, some psychological consultants have warned of the doll's impact on children due to its strange appearance, noting that it may cause psychological disorders or distort the perception of beauty in young children. In some religious circles, particularly in the Arab region, the doll has been described as carrying negative connotations, prompting calls to raise awareness against its use.

Phenomenon analysis

1. The role of social media

The Lapopo controversy demonstrates the power of social media to amplify rumors and create conspiracy theories. The simple similarity in name and appearance between Lapopo and Pazuzu was enough to spark controversy, especially given the dramatic videos circulating on TikTok. These platforms foster what is known as "digital paranoia," where unverified ideas are quickly amplified, especially when they relate to a popular product.

2. celebrity influence

Lapopo's appearances with celebrities like Lisa and Rihanna played a major role in its popularity. This exposure made the doll a fashion icon, but it also sparked curiosity about its background, fueling rumors. This demonstrates how celebrity influence can transform an ordinary product into a global phenomenon, whether positive or negative.

3. Cultural and psychological dimensions

American Academy Gozde Goncu Berk The Lapopo phenomenon has been described as reflecting a "cultural and technological angst." In a complex and challenging world, the doll represents an "illusion of simplicity," appealing to adults as a symbol of childhood nostalgia. But its eerie appearance, which combines cuteness with creepiness, elicits mixed reactions, making it fertile ground for conspiracy theories.

facts

There is no physical or historical evidence linking Lapopo to Pazuzu or any demonic energy. The similarity in names and appearance is purely coincidental, and the controversy reflects the human tendency to seek hidden meanings in mystical objects. The doll's design, while eerie, is part of a marketing strategy aimed at attracting attention and creating a unique experience for buyers. Alleged phenomena such as nightmares or strange sounds may be the result of psychological influences (such as the effect of suggestion) or attempts to attract attention on social media. The Lapopo doll is a prime example of how a simple product can become a cultural phenomenon and spark widespread controversy due to misunderstandings and social media amplification. Between its immense popularity as a fashion icon and rumors linking it to Satanism, Lapopo remains just a doll, reflecting the complexities of the digital age and popular culture. It is important to verify information and not be swayed by rumors, especially those that feed on fear and mystery. Whether you are a toy collector or simply a follower of cultural phenomena, Lapopo's story demonstrates how creativity can simultaneously arouse admiration and controversy.