How to distinguish between real and fake Labubu: 10 genuine product signs from Pop Mart

Labubu is becoming the new craze on social media, surpassing even Squishmallows and Beanie Babies. Labubu products – from figurines to keychains – often sell out in seconds, forcing many people to buy them from resellers. However, when buying from resellers, you are very likely to encounter fake Labubu (as the community jokingly calls them Lafufu ).

So how do you distinguish between real and fake Labubu ? Don't worry. Below are the most common signs to help you identify genuine products, based on the experience of collectors and fashion authentication expert Daniel Gbenle. Additionally, you'll learn where to buy authentic Labubu, why fakes are so prevalent, and whether or not you should buy counterfeit Labubu.

How to identify a real Labubu

• QR Code

  • New Labubu models always have a QR code that leads to the official Pop Mart website.

  • This is a quick and reliable check when you want to verify the authenticity of Labubu.

• Packaging

  • Genuine Labubu boxes have a matte, textured surface and feel solid in the hand.

  • The box material is soft and smooth, the printing is sharp and doesn't smudge – a quality that counterfeit products often lack.

• Physical characteristics

  • Labubu's ears are slightly bunched inward instead of fanned out.

  • The face has a light peach tone, and the eyes and painted details are well-balanced.

  • A true Labubu has 9 teeth – one of the most basic identifying characteristics.

• Finish quality

  • Labubu's fur or surface material is incredibly soft, smooth, and uniform.

  • The stitching is seamless, with no loose threads – a feature that fake Labubu products often reveal due to inferior finishing technology.

• Logo stamp at the bottom

  • The left leg always has a sharp, clear Pop Mart logo, without any blurring.

  • With newer versions, the right leg has a special mark that only shows up under UV light – this is an anti-counterfeiting feature that is difficult for fakes to replicate.

Part 1: How to Accurately Distinguish Between Real and Fake Labubu

Step 1: Check the color and quality of the Labubu box.

• Color and surface of the box

  • Authentic Labubu boxes have a matte surface, feel smooth to the touch, and have a solid feel.

  • The colors printed on the box are usually light, slightly pale, and not too vibrant.

  • Fake Labubu boxes are often shiny, slightly rough, and have unusually bright and vibrant colors.

• Small details on the packaging

  • Check the trash can icon on the back of the box: the genuine one has a rounded arrow; the fake one usually has a square corner.

  • The printed details on the genuine box are always sharp, uniform, and free from smudging or broken letters.

• Beware of cases where fake Labubu is put into a box of real ones.

  • Some vendors use real boxes to deceive buyers, then place fake Lafufu (Labubu) inside.

  • Therefore, after checking the box, continue to compare other characteristics of the Labubu such as face color, number of teeth, logo on the paws, fur material, and QR code.

• Expert advice

  • According to Daniel Gbenle, a fashion authentication expert with over 10 years of experience, observing the printing quality and finish of the box is the first step in effectively distinguishing between genuine and counterfeit Labubu products.

Step 2: Check the QR code inside the Labubu box.

• The QR code leads to the official Pop Mart website.

  • Genuine Labubu products always have a QR code that buyers can scan to directly access Pop Mart's authentication page.

  • According to fashion authentication expert Daniel Gbenle, each Labubu box has a QR code with clear verification information.

  • Fake QR codes often lead to strange pages, "fake" pages, or redirect a few seconds before leading back to Pop Mart.

• Identifying fake QR codes

  • The page did not redirect to the correct Pop Mart page, or an error occurred during scanning.

  • Some fake versions do not have a QR code.

  • A QR code that is "broken," blurry, or not sharp is also a suspicious sign.

  • Gbenle stated that a QR code with broken lines, misaligned printing, or missing details is a clear warning sign.

• QR code location

  • Usually found inside a Labubu box.

  • Some product lines have codes on the outside of the packaging or on a tag attached to the product.

• Note regarding older versions of Labubu

  • Early Labubu models did not have QR codes.

  • If the product you're holding doesn't have a QR code, carefully check other features such as material, paint color, number of teeth, lugs, and logo on the foot to verify its authenticity.

Step 3: Count Labubu's teeth.

• Standard number of teeth in a real Labubu

  • Genuine Labubu always has exactly 9 sharp teeth.

  • If the sample you're holding has more or fewer than 9 teeth, that's a very easily recognizable sign of a fake.

• Identifying the fake teeth in Labubu, even though all nine teeth are present.

  • Some fake versions still retain the number of teeth as 9, but the paint is often smudged, uneven in color, or deviates from the blue outline of the mouth.

  • The teeth may be fused together, without the clear gaps like the genuine product.

  • Genuine teeth always have sharp edges, precise paint, and are individually separated.

Step 4: Observe the skin tone and overall finish.

• facial skin tone

  • Authentic Labubu has a light peach-pink color, giving it a soft and natural look.

  • Fake Labubu often use darker shades of orange, pink, or yellow , lacking the subtlety of the genuine product.

• Surface and paint quality

  • Genuine Labubu tiles have a matte finish , feel smooth to the touch, and are not shiny or blurry.

  • The paint lines are sharp, evenly colored, and smudge-free, with details rendered precisely.

  • Counterfeit goods often have a rough surface, uneven paint, and inconsistent coloring.

• The eyes – a very easily recognizable sign.

  • The eyes of a genuine Labubu are glossy, clear , and have a glass-like effect, embedded in the vinyl.

  • When held under natural light and tilted slightly from left to right, the eyes reflect the light clearly, creating a sense of "life," expressing curiosity or playfulness – a characteristic of Pop Mart's design.

  • Fake eyes are often bulging, lack shine, have little depth, and look expressionless.

• Blushing cheeks

  • Labubu only has a light layer of blush , blended evenly.

  • Counterfeit products often have two dark, unnatural-looking circles.

• Test using a black light.

  • The paint on the nose of a genuine Labubu glows slightly when illuminated with a UV light.

  • Fake Labubu often don't react this way because they use cheaper paint.

Step 5: Check the authentication mark under the right footer.

• UV mark on the right foot (applies to models from 2024 onwards)

  • Labubu models released from 2024 onwards have a special authentication mark located on the right foot , visible only under UV light.

  • When illuminated with a black light, you will see the reflection of the very Labubu model you are holding – this is an anti-counterfeiting mechanism recently implemented by Pop Mart.

  • If no silhouette appears, or if the markings are blurry, misaligned, or unclear, it is highly likely to be a fake.

• Not applicable to models manufactured before 2024.

  • Older Labubu models don't have UV markings , so you need to check using other characteristics such as skin color, teeth, eyes, QR code, and material.

Step 6: Inspect the fur quality and overall finish.

• Fur material and stitching

  • Authentic Labubu plush always has soft, smooth, fluffy, and evenly colored fur .

  • The seams are neatly and seamlessly integrated with the vinyl surface, leaving no loose threads visible.

  • Counterfeit items often use coarse, stiff fur that lacks fluffiness; the seams are loose, showing threads or fraying.

• Feel and weight

  • According to expert Daniel Gbenle, genuine Labubu weighs approximately 0.2–0.3 pounds (equivalent to a medium-sized apple or a standard chocolate bar).

  • If Labubu is too light, like an empty can, or unusually heavy, that's a suspicious sign.

• Overall dimensions

  • The standard size of a real Labubu typically ranges from the tip of the middle finger to the wrist of an adult's hand — a consistent ratio across versions.

  • The knockoffs are often shorter, smaller , or disproportionate compared to the standard size of Pop Mart.

Step 7: Check the Pop Mart logo on the left footrest.

• The Pop Mart logo is sharp and in the correct position.

  • Genuine Labubu always have the Pop Mart logo printed or embossed on the left foot .

  • The text must be clear, sharp, free of spelling errors , and not blurry or misaligned.

  • The logo is positioned in the center of the foot , neither pushed up too high nor tucked too far down to the bottom edge.

  • If the logo is blurry, has the wrong font, is missing lines, or is misaligned, it's highly likely to be a fake.

• The feeling when touching the feet

  • The real Labubu's feet are soft and slightly elastic , made from the same vinyl material as the face.

  • Counterfeit versions often use hard, rough plastic that feels dull and hollow to the touch.

  • Some counterfeit products also have unusually large feet or feet that are disproportionate to the body.

Step 8: Check the accompanying identification card.

• Authentic Labubu Standard Identification Card

  • Each authentic Labubu (both figure and keychain) comes with a sharply printed identity card , featuring soft pastel colors and a bold, clear logo.

  • The card is thick, sturdy, and feels solid in the hand , giving it a premium feel.

  • The illustration on the card perfectly matches the Labubu model in the box: the pose, clothing, colors, and accessories all match.

  • The box also always includes a desiccant packet .

• Signs of a counterfeit or missing card.

  • The printed cards may be blurry, have color mismatches, smudge, or be made of thin paper that easily curls at the edges.

  • The image on the card does not match the actual Labubu (wrong pose, wrong color, wrong outfit).

  • Some fake Labubu products either lack tags or have poorly printed tags that lack sharpness.

  • According to expert Daniel Gbenle, the feeling of a card being "thin, light, and less premium" is a very easy way to spot a fake.

Step 9: Observe the ears and hairline.

• The shape and position of the ears

  • The real Labubu has ears that are close together and slightly tucked inward – this is one of the defining features of the Pop Mart design.

  • Fake Labubu (Lafufu) often have ears that stand upright , or ears that are unusually far apart , making the overall face look unbalanced.

• Hairline

  • In authentic Labubu hairstyles, the hairline is designed to be moderately low , closely hugging the forehead.

  • Counterfeit products often have hairlines that are higher , misaligned, or look unnatural.

Step 10: Check for spelling errors on the tag.

• Spelling errors are an easily recognizable false alarm.

  • Take a close look at the tag attached to Labubu.

  • Genuine Labubu products always have tags with sharp, clear printing, no spelling errors , and no blurring.

  • If you see misspelled, misspelled, blurry, or illegible text, that's a very clear sign of counterfeit goods (Lafufu).

• Print quality on the tag

  • Pop Mart's tags have consistent colors, precise lines, and high resolution.

  • Counterfeit tags are often faded, lack detail, smudge easily , and sometimes even use fonts that don't meet Pop Mart's standards.

Part 2: Where to buy authentic Labubu from a reputable source

Option 1: Buy Labubu directly from Pop Mart

• Buying directly from the source is the most reliable way.

  • The safest way to ensure you're getting a genuine Labubu is to buy it directly from Pop Mart – the original toy manufacturer in China.

  • However, Labubu models often sell out very quickly , so getting one is not easy at all.

• Restock times are often shared within the community.

  • Many collectors note that Pop Mart typically restocks online on Thursdays at 9 PM EST and in-store on Fridays at 10 AM .

  • To increase their chances of buying, collectors are advised to log in and monitor the Pop Mart website 15–30 minutes before the sale opens .

• Find a Pop Mart store near you.

  • You can use Pop Mart's store locator tool to see if there are any official stores in your area.

  • Buying directly from the store helps minimize risks and ensures the product is in its original packaging, complete with tags and accessories.

• Buy Labubu on Pop Mart's official Amazon store.

  • Pop Mart also sells Labubu on the Amazon Official Store , but the same "sold out as soon as it's listed" situation occurs as with the website and physical stores.

Option 2: Buy Labubu from a reputable reseller.

• Resellers are an alternative option when Pop Mart runs out of stock.

  • When you can't buy directly from Pop Mart, you can still find genuine Labubu through resellers.

  • However, prices are often significantly higher due to high demand and limited quantities.

• Prioritize platforms with product authentication.

  • It's best to start with verified trading platforms like StockX or similar international exchanges.

  • These platforms will verify the product before delivery, helping you minimize the risk of receiving the wrong Lafufu .

• Be cautious when buying from individual sellers.

  • If you buy from a third party (Facebook, toy market, group), follow all the steps in this guide: check the box, QR code, number of teeth, eyes, leg logo, accompanying tag, material, and stitching.

  • Do not pay in advance if the seller is not transparent or refuses to provide detailed images.

• General advice

  • When buying from resellers, prioritize sellers with a clear transaction history , good reviews, and who provide complete, real product images.

  • If the price is too low compared to the average, it's very likely a fake.

Part 3: What is Labubu?

• Definition of Labubu

  • Labubu is a line of collectible plush or figure toys featuring adorable little monsters, highly sought after by collectors.

• Character origins

  • The character Labubu, created by artist Kasing Lung , is part of The Monsters comic series, inspired by Norse mythology.

  • Labubu first appeared in 2015 , but only truly gained popularity after collaborating with Pop Mart in 2019 , launching blind box lines and themed collections.

• Social media phenomenon

  • In 2024, Labubu exploded globally when Lisa (Blackpink) was spotted wearing a Labubu keychain on her handbag.

  • This image quickly made Labubu a "must-have" item in the collectible toy community.

• Release format

  • Most Labubu models are sold as blind boxes , along with many different themed series, motivating players to collect the complete set.

• Other characters in the world of The Monsters

  • Besides Labubu, Kasing Lung also created characters such as Mokoko, Pato, Spooky, Tycoco, Zimomo, and others.

  • However, Labubu remains the most popular and sought-after character in the entire The Monsters ecosystem.

Part 4: Why are fake Labubu so popular?

• Cheaper and easier to buy than the real thing.

  • Authentic Labubu products are almost exclusively distributed through Pop Mart and are always in high demand .

  • When buying from resellers, prices are often driven up significantly due to high demand.

  • Therefore, many people are switching to buying fake Labubu (Lafufu) because it's much cheaper and easier to find.

• Counterfeit goods are more accessible.

  • While Pop Mart limits the number of items released in each batch, counterfeit products are mass-produced and can be found in many places, from online marketplaces to small toy shops.

• The "adorable but strange" nature of counterfeit goods creates a trend.

  • Many Lafufu figures have funny flaws such as crooked faces , upside-down hands , and missing details , making them "weird but cute".

  • This has led many people to buy counterfeit items simply for collecting , taking photos, or for entertainment – ​​inadvertently causing Lafufu to spread even further.

• The mentality of wanting cheap prices and a lack of inspection.

  • Some sellers openly admit they sell fake goods, but there are also cases where they intentionally deceive buyers by advertising them as genuine.

  • If the price is too cheap compared to the market or sounds "unbelievably perfect," that's often a sign of a fake .

Part 5: Should you buy Lafufu?

• Lafufu is a cheaper option if you can't buy real Labubu.

  • For many people, the price of genuine Labubu is quite high or too difficult to find, so Lafufu becomes a more economical alternative.

  • The quality of Lafufu is very inconsistent : some copies look quite similar to the real thing, but others are severely flawed, distorted, and have misaligned details.

• It depends on your collecting purpose.

  • If you just need a cute item to display for fun, Lafufu can provide it.

  • If you're a serious collector who appreciates perfect craftsmanship and long-term value, then genuine Labubu is still a more worthwhile option.

• Some people also like Lafufu because of their "cute" appearance.

  • Many fans have said that they find Lafufu's flaws, such as his misaligned eyes, reversed hands, or funny facial expressions, to be the very things that make him so endearing.

• Important notes regarding costs and sources of supply.

  • Even if you choose Lafufu, you shouldn't overspend , especially when the seller advertises it as genuine at an unusually low price.

  • Prioritize transparent sellers who clearly describe whether a product is a decorative item or a replica toy , to avoid being scammed when buying online.

• Think carefully before making a decision.

  • Whether you buy a real Lafufu or a real Labubu depends on your preferences, budget, and collecting goals.

  • It's important to recognize the differences and avoid spending a large sum of money on a product that doesn't meet your expectations.

References

1. https://snkrdunk.com/en/magazine/2024/12/04/real-vs-fake-labubu-tips-to-ensure-your-collection-is-authentic/
2. https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/whats-on/shopping/labubu-fan-shares-one-detail-31274258
3. https://www.nbcnews.com/select/shopping/what-is-a-labubu-rcna210622
4. https://www.popmartworld.com/news/how-to-tell-your-labubu-is-fake
5. https://www.today.com/shop/what-are-labubus-rcna208265

Translated by Ashley Wright Nguyen .