If you’ve spent any time on TikTok, Instagram, or even scrolling through celeb feeds lately, chances are you’ve seen those wide-eyed, toothy little creatures called Labubu. They’re equal parts creepy and cute, and they’ve become one of the most addictive collectibles around. From Rihanna to Dua Lipa to tennis star Naomi Osaka, everyone seems to have fallen under their spell.
But with great hype comes a darker side: the rise of fakes, affectionately (or not so affectionately) known as Lafufus. And trust us, you don’t want to spend good money only to realize your prized monster is nothing more than a cheap knock-off.
So, whether you’re a die-hard collector or just want one to dangle from your bag, here’s your foolproof guide to spotting the real deal.
First Impressions Matter: The Packaging
Before you even touch the figure, the box tells a story. Authentic Labubu boxes have a smooth, matte finish with muted tones. If the packaging feels shiny, plasticky, or the colors scream neon, it’s a red flag.
And then there’s the holographic sticker every real Labubu box has a “POP MART” 3D sticker with a QR code. Scanning it should take you straight to Pop Mart’s anti-counterfeiting page. If you end up on a shady site or worse, no QR code at all, you’re looking at a Lafufu.
Collectors have also spotted tiny slip-ups on fakes: symbols that look slightly off, arrows with sharp instead of rounded corners, or missing inserts like the desiccant packet and identity card. It’s the small details that give the imposters away.
The Famous Smile: Counting the Teeth
Here’s the most iconic trick in the book: a real Labubu has exactly nine teeth. Not eight. Not ten. Nine.
Each tooth grows naturally from the blue gum line, with tiny gaps between them. Counterfeits often botch this, too many teeth, awkward spacing, or messy paintwork that looks more Halloween mask than collectible art.
The Face Tells All
Genuine Labubus have a matte finish, crisp paint lines, and eyes that seem almost alive, glossy, rounded, and deeply set. Their blush is soft and airbrushed, never harsh.
Lafufus, on the other hand, give themselves away with sloppy paint jobs, flat painted eyes, and blush that looks like it was slapped on with a marker.
If it’s a plush Labubu, run your fingers through the fur. Authentic ones feel soft and fluffy, with seamless stitching. A fake will feel rough, with visible threads and poor embroidery.
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Flip Them Over: The Feet Test
Turn your Labubu over, it’s not shy. Real figures almost always have the “POP MART” logo and copyright details embossed or printed on the bottom. These are sharp, clear, and spelled correctly. If they’re missing or fuzzy, it’s bad news.
Here’s a newer trick: shine a UV light on the right foot. If it’s authentic, you’ll see a clear Labubu silhouette glow back at you. Lafufus either don’t bother with this or do a blurry imitation.
The Bunny Ears
Labubu’s ears are almost as famous as its grin. They should be long, slightly inward-pointing, and closely spaced. If they’re standing stiffly upright or set too far apart, you might be holding a fake.
On plush versions, check the stitching, authentic ears have neat, hidden seams, while Lafufu ears often show messy stitches or loose threads.
Why It Matters
Labubus aren’t just toys, they’re part of a movement in designer art figures that’s gone mainstream. Kasing Lung’s quirky creation has crossed over into fashion, sport, and global pop culture. That makes authenticity important, not just for collectors but for fans who want to own a little piece of that cultural moment.
Unfortunately, with Lafufus flooding the market, spotting the difference has become a skill every collector needs.
So next time you’re about to hit “Buy Now,” slow down, check the packaging, count those teeth, and maybe keep a UV light handy. Because if you’re going to welcome one of these mischievous little monsters into your life, you’ll want the real deal.
Just like sneakers or designer handbags, Labubus have become status symbols in their own right. But where luxury labels fight counterfeits with lawsuits, fans here are taking the lead, sharing tips, posting unboxing videos, and educating each other online. In a way, spotting a Lafufu has become a cultural bonding moment for the community.
{Source: IOL}
Featured Image: X {@TheBrandfathers}
