Labubu, the wildly popular collectible toy line created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, has become a global phenomenon, especially after collaborations with Pop Mart and a viral wave of attention boosted by a K-pop idol from BlackPink.
With that level of buzz, however, comes a surge in counterfeits—some so convincing that fans have dubbed them Lafufus. These fake Labubu toys can easily pass for the real thing at first glance. If you’re worried about accidentally adding one to your collection, this guide will show you how to tell if a Labubu is real—and how to avoid Lafufus for good.
🧾 1. Know the Labubu Backstory
Labubu originated in The Monsters—a 2015 picture book series inspired by Nordic mythology. Originally produced by How2Work, the Labubu toys exploded in popularity after Pop Mart took over production. As the figures became more collectible, counterfeiters ramped up production, flooding the market with deceptively accurate fakes.
📦 2. Examine Packaging Carefully
A key difference between real and fake Labubu figures is in the packaging quality:
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Authentic boxes have high-resolution print, sharp fonts, and often a holographic Pop Mart sticker.
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Fake boxes tend to be lower quality with blurry logos, incorrect fonts, or missing authenticity features.
Check the bottom of the box for a batch code and production details.
🔍 3. Inspect the Figure’s Craftsmanship
Even highly convincing Lafufu figures tend to have flaws. Use this checklist:
| Feature | Real Labubu | Lafufu (Fake) |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Smooth, solid vinyl | Cheap, often shiny plastic |
| Paint | Neat, vibrant, with crisp details | Messy or bleeding paint lines |
| Proportions | Symmetrical ears, teeth, and eyes | Misaligned or distorted features |
Pay special attention to the eyes, smile, and color vibrancy—they’re often giveaways.
📱 4. Scan the QR Code for Authentication
This is your strongest weapon against counterfeits. Genuine Pop Mart Labubus usually include:
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A QR code on the box and hip tag of the figure
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An authentication code, often a 4-digit number
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A redirect to Pop Mart’s official verification site
Here’s how to use it:
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Scan the QR code with your smartphone.
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You should land on Pop Mart’s verification portal.
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Enter the last four digits of the authenticity code.
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The site will confirm whether your Labubu is genuine.
Note: Older models may lack QR codes, but most modern releases have both.
🛍️ 5. Only Buy from Reputable Sellers
Avoid Lafufus by buying from:
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Pop Mart’s official site or app
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Certified retailers or flagship Pop Mart stores
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Trusted platforms like Carousell or eBay, but only from Top Rated Sellers
Red flags include:
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Prices too low
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No receipts or QR code
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Vague seller profiles or poor ratings
With Labubu figures reaching collector grail status, counterfeiters are only getting bolder. But armed with knowledge—and a QR code scanner—you’ll always know how to tell if a Labubu is real.
Don’t let a Lafufu sneak into your collection. Happy hunting!