In a jaw-dropping viral moment, a driver of a Toyota sedan has ignited outrage after attaching a Labubu plush toy keychain to the back of his car.

Captured by a Chinese netizen while vacationing abroad, the shocking image led to a flood of emotional responses on social media. "Why are overseas people so cruel? I can't bear to watch," they lamented.

For those unfamiliar, the Labubu character is part of a viral sensation that took off in April 2024. This adorable character from Pop Mart has found its way into the hearts and homes of fans, with enthusiasts showcasing plush toys, keychains, and even trendy outfits for their beloved plushies.

So it’s no surprise that this driver’s choice sparked outrage among devoted Labubu fans, who expressed their dismay at witnessing such a fate for the beloved character.

One distraught netizen questioned, "How can the driver bear to do that?" Another added humorously, "This Labubu has a very tough life." The plush toy's plight encouraged fans to post pictures of their own well-cared-for Labubus, complete with accessories that highlight their pampered existence. One user stated, "My husband wanted to hang my Labubu on his car as well, but I wouldn’t let him!"

While many labeled the driver's actions as "heartless," some bystanders failed to grasp the emotional connection fans have with Labubu. A few speculated the driver might have obtained the toy for a few coins, while others theorized he was subtly rebelling against the Labubu hype.

One netizen provocatively questioned, "Why are people so concerned about this? Isn't it just another toy hanging from a car?" This raised an interesting point about the symbolism behind hanging toys on vehicles.

Historical insights reveal that hanging plush toys from cars could have deeper meanings. Originating from Japan's street drifting culture, these toys can serve as drift charms—markers of the driver's skill and daring maneuvers. For the superstitious, they might represent an attempt to appease spirits of those who have met unfortunate fates on the roads.

Regardless of the reasons, this incident has undoubtedly added another layer to the already engaging narrative of Labubu, elevating its status from a mere toy to a symbol of affection and controversy.