Labub dolls, which took the social media storms as unpredictable collector items and fashion accessories, are now burned by participating owners after the rise of a disturbing plot.
Dolls based on Monsters, an illustrated series of books from the Hong Kong studio Kasing Lung, have become an Internet feeling in recent months. But now they are in the middle of viral panic.
The controversy broke out after online posts began to say that dolls are associated with Pazuzu, a demon of ancient Mesopotamian mythology. The theory that has gained traction across tiktok and other platforms suggests that dolls are “obsessed” or spiritually associated with Pazuzu – stimulating some owners to destroy their dolls in fear.
Pictures comparing the smiling face of the labub with historical pads – often displayed by a sinister smile, convex eyes and sharp features – added fuel to the fire.
Who is Pazuzu?
Pazuzu comes from ancient Mesopotamian religion and mythology, specifically from Assyrian and Babylonian texts. He believed he was the king of the wind demons and was associated with protection and destruction. Although Pazuz was considered a malevolent figure, it was paradoxically induced to protect against other evil spirits – especially the demon Lamasht, which threatened pregnant women and infants.
Pazuzu was also well introduced to the modern audience in the 1973 horror classic, “Exorcist”, where he acted as a central demonic power of the film. His grotesque appearance and scary presence contributed to the reputation of the demon as a symbol of evil in popular culture.
While the current panic around Labub dolls lacks credible evidence, the emotional reaction was strong. There have been several videos that show that people burn dolls in symbolic actions of cleaning or protection.
From now on, there was no formal statement from Labub creators or brands behind the Monsters series. Meanwhile collectors and cultural critics continue to discuss whether the reaction is justified concern or other case of viral hysteria.
(Tagstotranslate) Labubu Dolls
