From Labubus to the Louvre heist: The viral moments that defined 2025

2025 was a year filled with viral moments that captivated the public and sparked debates. From Labubu dolls to the infamous 67 meme and the Louvre robbery, these events dominated headlines and social media feeds throughout the year.

Labubu dolls, created by artist Kasing Lung, took the world by storm in 2025. These plush toys, based on figures from Nordic mythology, became a billion-dollar business for toy company Pop Mart. Celebrities were often seen carrying these collectible keychains, leading to long lines and sold-out drops both online and in stores. The blind nature of Labubu blind box openings added to the allure, with customers eagerly collecting the different variations of the toy.

The 67 meme, chosen as the 2025 Word of the Year by Dictionary.com, became a sensation among Generation Alpha. The term, often used to mean ‘so-so’ or ‘maybe this, maybe that,’ spread rapidly online. However, not everyone was a fan of the meme, with Vice President JD Vance even calling for its ban. Businesses and schools attempted to crack down on its usage, with some resorting to fake tickets and threats of punishment.

In a surprising turn of events, a kiss cam moment at a Coldplay concert in Boston led to the resignation of two corporate executives. The viral video captured the intimate dance of the executives, prompting an internal investigation at the tech company Astronomer. The fallout from the incident, including death threats and public scrutiny, highlighted the power of viral moments in today’s digital age.

Lastly, the Louvre robbery in October shocked the world as four masked thieves stole $102 million worth of jewels from the museum’s Apollo Gallery. The heist, which lasted less than seven minutes, involved the robbers using a truck with an extendable ladder to break into the museum. The stolen jewelry, including pieces belonging to Emperor Napoleon, has yet to be recovered, leaving authorities baffled and the public intrigued by the audacity of the crime.

Overall, 2025 was a year of nonstop viral moments that not only entertained but also shaped public discourse and real-world trends. From the frenzy over Labubu dolls to the controversy surrounding the 67 meme and the daring Louvre robbery, these events will be remembered for years to come.