Anatomy of a Fake Labubu: The Ultimate Authentication Guide
Learn to spot fake Labubu figures with our comprehensive authentication guide. Protect your collection with expert tips on identifying counterfeits.
Labubu’s meteoric rise from niche art toy to global status symbol has brought with it an unfortunate side effect: a tidal wave of counterfeits, affectionately (or infamously) dubbed “Lafufu” by the collector community. As Labubu’s popularity soars, so does the sophistication of fakes, making authentication more crucial than ever for both passionate collectors and savvy investors.
Collector’s Confession:
The first time I held a suspicious Labubu, I wanted to believe it was real. The box looked perfect, but something about the smile felt… off. That lesson cost me $60 and taught me: trust, but always verify.
Understanding the Fake Labubu Phenomenon
Why Are Labubu Fakes (Lafufu) So Common?
Labubu’s viral status and the thrill of blind box collecting have created a perfect storm for counterfeiters. Demand outpaces supply, especially for rare releases, and FOMO drives fans to riskier marketplaces. Lafufu—knockoff Labubus—flood sites like AliExpress, eBay, and even some local shops, offering a tempting but risky shortcut for budget-conscious fans.
Community Debate:
Some collectors admit to buying Lafufu for fun or as placeholders, even customizing them for laughs. But most agree: when Lafufu are passed off as real, it hurts everyone.
The Risks of Buying Counterfeit Labubu
- Financial loss: Fakes have little or no resale value.
- Disappointment: The joy of unboxing is ruined by poor quality or mismatched accessories.
- Community impact: Counterfeits erode trust and can damage the reputation of sellers and collectors alike.
The 5 Key Authentication Checkpoints (with Photographic Comparisons)
1. Packaging & Box Details
Pop Mart Branding and Box Quality
Authentic Labubu boxes are sturdy, with crisp printing, matte finishes, and accurate colors. Fakes often have glossy, flimsy boxes, blurry artwork, or off-center logos. Watch for misspellings like “OPMart” or “Pop-Tart.”
QR Code & Hologram Sticker
Every real Labubu box features a holographic sticker with a QR code. Scan it: it should link directly to Pop Mart’s official authentication site. Blurry or misprinted QR codes, or codes that lead to suspicious websites, are a major red flag.
Insider Secret:
Some scammers use real boxes with fake dolls inside. Always verify both the packaging and the figure—don’t let a genuine QR code lull you into a false sense of security!
2. Face, Teeth & Paintwork
The Signature Labubu Smile
Labubu’s nine jagged teeth are her signature—always count them. Authentic figures have exactly nine, each distinct and separated. Fakes often have fewer, more, or poorly painted teeth with no clear gaps.
Labubu’s face should have a smooth, peachy matte finish, with soft airbrushed blush and glossy, embedded eyes. Fakes may sport garish colors, rough textures, or heavy-handed blush.
UV Light Authentication
Recent Labubu releases feature UV-reactive stamps—use a blacklight to check for glowing marks on the sole, nose, and eyes. Fakes rarely get these details right.
3. Body, Material & Weight
Shape, Proportions & Fur
Authentic Labubu figures have a balanced head-to-body ratio, dense and soft fur, and seamless vinyl faces. Fakes often feel lightweight, with sparse fur, rough seams, or odd proportions.
Wash Label & Foot Logo
Check the wash label: real ones are smooth, well-integrated, and stitched cleanly. The foot logo should be crisp and perfectly aligned—fakes are often blurry or off-center.
4. Accessories & Identity Card
Checking Included Items
Real Labubu figures come with a pastel-toned identity card and a desiccant packet with clear branding. Fakes may omit these or include low-quality, blurry versions. Always check that the card matches the figure in the box.
5. Real vs. Fake: Photographic Side-by-Side Gallery
Nothing beats a direct visual comparison. Study these high-resolution shots of authentic and counterfeit Labubu figures—note differences in facial expression, foot details, packaging, and accessories.
Collector’s Confession:
The moment I realized my “rare” Labubu was a Lafufu? The teeth were off, the blush looked like clown makeup, and the QR code led to a sketchy site. Lesson learned—never skip the details.
Advanced Legit Check: Digital Tools & Community Resources
Using QR Codes and Online Verification
Scratch the QR code, scan with your phone, and ensure it links to Pop Mart’s official site (m-gss.popmart.com). If it redirects elsewhere, or the code has been checked too many times, it’s likely a fake.
AI & App-Based Authentication
Apps like LEGIT APP and StockX use AI and expert human authenticators to review your figure’s photos, packaging, and QR code. These services are especially helpful for high-value or ambiguous cases.
Insider Secret:
Technology is powerful, but trust your instincts too. If something feels off—weight, smell, paint—don’t ignore your gut.
Community Wisdom & Crowdsourcing
Share photos in collector groups on Discord, Facebook, or Xiaohongshu. Crowdsourced expertise can catch subtle red flags that even apps might miss.
Community Debate:
Should the community “out” sellers of fakes? Some say yes, to protect others; others worry about witch hunts. Most agree: transparency and education are key.
Tips for Safe Buying & Avoiding Counterfeit Labubu
Trusted Sources & Red Flags
- Buy from: Pop Mart official stores, authorized retailers, or trusted platforms like StockX.
- Red flags: Prices far below retail, vague or “unboxed” listings, sellers with poor feedback or overseas shipping from known fake hotspots.
What to Do If You Suspect a Fake
- Contact the seller and request a return or refund.
- Report the incident to the platform and warn fellow collectors.
- Use authentication apps for a second opinion.
Collector’s Confession:
I once bought a Lafufu by mistake. The seller vanished, but PayPal’s buyer protection saved me. Now, I always legit check before paying.
Conclusion
Careful authentication isn’t just about protecting your wallet—it’s about preserving the integrity and joy of the Labubu community. Every real Labubu is a piece of art; every fake, a lesson for us all.
Action Steps:
- Always legit check your Labubu—start with packaging, teeth, and QR code.
- Share your knowledge and help others spot fakes.
- If you’ve caught a Lafufu, post your real vs. fake photos and join the conversation!
