Spot the difference between real Labubu and fake Labubu with this quick guide. Learn how to tell Labubu vs Lafufu and what makes an original Labubu legit, with clear tips on packaging, quality, details and secret markings so you can collect with confidence.
What Are Fake Labubu (Lafufu)?
Lafufu are Fake Labubu that Sometimes Are Hard to Tell Apart from Real Labubu
Image by Popmart World
The term Lafufu is what collectors jokingly call fake or bootleg versions of the popular Labubu figures. These imitations are usually made to look almost identical to the originals, and they’ve flooded marketplaces like AliExpress, Shopee, and even TikTok shops. Some are clearly fake, but others are so close to the real thing that even experienced collectors have to double check.
Fake Labubu are usually way cheaper, but not always. Some sellers try to pass them off as rare or sold-out originals, so people end up paying way more than they’re worth. The paint can be messy, the materials may feel off, and they often leave out little things like stamps or serial numbers. Some even come in boxes that look real at first. That’s why spotting a Lafufu has basically become a skill for anyone deep in the Labubu world. Knowing how to spot the difference is crucial if you’re collecting Labubu seriously or buying from unofficial sellers.
Fake Labubu vs Real Labubu
How to Tell if you Bought a Fake Labubu
There are Many Tells to Check if Your Labubu is Authentic
Real vs Fake Labubu TikTok BY @sacredhearts11If you think you might have a fake Labubu, don’t panic. There are a bunch of easy things you can check to get a better idea. Some fakes are super obvious, others are actually kind of impressive. Either way, there are always little signs that give a Lafufu away.
From missing stamps to weird details, fake Labubu almost always mess something up. You can do many things to spot a fake like count the teeth or look at the packaging to see if something feels off. This section breaks down all the main ways to spot a fake, starting with the box.
How to Spot a Fake Labubu Box
Real Labubu Boxes Have Smooth Matte Finishes with Soft, Muted Colors and an Official QR code.
Real Labubus usually come with clean, high-quality packaging that includes a scannable holographic like QR code and an identity card inside the box. Most of the time, you’ll find the QR either on the box or directly on the figure. There’s also often a scratch-off sticker that reveals a unique number for verification. You can scan the QR code with your phone or the Pop Mart app to see if it’s real. Just keep in mind that not all Labubu have this feature. Some older ones were released before the QR system was added, so it’s totally normal if yours doesn’t have one.
Another thing to check is the look and feel of the box itself. Real Labubu boxes usually have a smooth matte finish with soft, muted colors. If the box looks shiny, overly bright, or has a weird texture, it could be a fake. Also watch for blurry printing, off-center logos, or anything that looks low-effort. Even the QR code might act strange, like taking too long to load or sending you to the wrong site.
Some fake Labubu come in what looks like a real Pop Mart box. They’ve even started copying QR stickers to trick buyers. That’s why the identity card, scratch code, QR code and packaging quality all need to be checked together.
If you’re buying from a reseller or an unofficial shop, it’s extra important to double check all of this before you assume your Labubu is real.
Check the Labubu Feet
One of the first things you should do is flip the Labubu over and check the bottom of its feet. A lot of newer, official Labubu released in 2024 and after have a UV stamp hidden on one foot. You can only see it under UV light, and it usually shows a little silhouette of a Labubu depending on which series you have. If yours has that, it’s a great sign of authenticity.
But not every real Labubu has it. Older figures from past years may have no stamp at all, depending on the collection. Fakes often get this part completely wrong. Some skip the UV stamp, others try to copy it but mess up the shape, design, or even the placement.
You should also pay attention to foot color. Real Labubu have a softer, natural tone that leans orangey-brown. Lafufus sometimes use brighter colors like pinkish feet or overly neon orange, which can look off when compared side by side with a real one. Some real figures also have a visible Pop Mart logo stamped clearly on the foot. Real Labubu feet can also rotate all the way around. And while you’re down there, check how the feet feel. Fakes sometimes use harder, plasticky material that feels cheaper, and some have oversized or oddly shaped feet compared to the real ones.
Check the Labubu Teeth
Real Labubu have 9 Teeth
Real Labubu figures always have 9 individual top teeth. If your Labubu has more or fewer than 9 teeth, it’s almost guaranteed to be a fake. Even if the number is right, real Labubu teeth grow drectly from the smile line, and have spaced-out teeth with sharp lines so be sure to double check. Fakes often look like the smile was rushed or painted off-center.
While you’re looking at the face, keep an eye on the color too. Authentic Labubu usually have a soft peachy or brown-toned skin. A super bright pink, yellow, or neon orange face is usually a dead giveaway that it’s a Lafufu.
Check the Labubu Fur, Stitching, Ears, Limbs and Label
Other Small Details to Double Check
Even if the obvious stuff checks out, fake Labubu almost always slip up on the smaller details. One thing to check is the fur and stitching on plush versions. Real ones use soft material with tight and seamless stitching that blend into the vinyl. Whereas fake ones usually have rougher fur, visible thread, or uneven cuts.
If you have a black light, try shining it on the nose. Some authentic Labubu glow or react slightly under UV, while fakes often don’t respond at all. It’s not a guaranteed test as not all Labubu series have this, but it’s another clue that can help.
Look at the face too. Real Labubu have soft blush that fades naturally, not harsh pink dots. The eyes should be clear, not cross-eyed and have no scratches or sloppy paint. Ears on fakes are sometimes spaced too far apart, and the hairline might look too high or off-center.
Other stuff to watch for includes spelling mistakes on the label, fabric that feels cheap, or limbs that don’t move properly. Real Labubu arms can be adjusted, and the overall construction should feel solid.
Fan Lafufu Submissions
Show Off Your Fake Lafufus in the Comments!
Image by @sirbraddeayala on TikTok via PopMart WorldHave a fake Labubu you accidentally bought, or just one you proudly keep on display? Drop a pic in the comments and show us what kind of fakes are out there. Whether it has 5 teeth, bright pink feet, or looks almost identical to a real Labubu, we want to see it.
This section is for all the collectors, casual fans, and anyone who loves Labubu, fake or not. Let’s make the ultimate fake Labubu museum right here. Bonus points if you give yours a name.
Special Thanks to Pop Mart World
Huge thanks to Pop Mart World for helping us stay up to date with the latest Labubu releases, images, and exclusive drops. Their cataloging work and collector community continue to be an amazing resource for fans worldwide.
