Pou, the iconic orange alien plush that first captured hearts in a 2012 mobile game, has found new life on TikTok, where it has become the star of a unique and grimly fascinating trend. With the hashtag #pou amassing over five billion views, users on the platform showcase the plush in various dire situations, ranging from falling off snowbanks to engaging in unconventional activities. Despite its existential undertones, Pou has become a relatable and adored figure, symbolizing both vulnerability and strength for its fans.
The trend on TikTok marks a resurgence for Pou, who initially gained popularity through the mobile game where players cared for the amorphous creature. Pou’s fame on TikTok, however, takes a darker turn as users explore scenarios involving Pou’s demise or the plush taking unconventional actions. This unique narrative has transformed Pou into a symbol of internet folklore, blending humor, relatability, and a touch of the absurd.
While Pou’s online journey is not new, the recent TikTok trend has brought it back into the spotlight. The character’s resurgence can be traced back to a K-pop star’s association with the plush, fueling its popularity further. Pou’s ability to evolve from a virtual pet in a mobile game to a multifaceted internet personality showcases the dynamic nature of online culture and how symbols can take on new meanings.
Notably, Pou’s newfound popularity has also become a business opportunity for some TikTok creators, with many accounts linked to dropshipping businesses selling Pou merchandise. This has sparked discussions about the ethics of dropshipping, as creators leverage the fast trend cycle to turn Pou into a marketable product. While the marketing strategy has been successful, it prompts a closer examination of the intersection between internet culture, commerce, and the potential pitfalls associated with dropshipping.
As Pou continues to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of online trends, its journey serves as a testament to the storytelling power of internet memes and the creative ways users engage with and reinterpret characters across different platforms. Whether a symbol of loneliness, a source of humor, or a marketing phenomenon, Pou’s presence on TikTok reflects the intricate and sometimes unconventional dynamics of internet culture.