How to Spot a Fake Labubu (and Avoid a "Lafufu")

MV Guides · Pop Mart & collectables

Labubu's popularity has brought a flood of counterfeits, nicknamed "Lafufus" by collectors. Some are obvious; others are close enough to fool people paying full price. These are the checks collectors use. No single one proves a figure is real, so use several together.

1. Buy where you can check the box

Genuine Pop Mart boxes carry an authenticity code or QR code that you can check through Pop Mart's official channels. Ask the seller for a clear photo of it before you buy, and be wary of sellers who won't show the box or say the box was "thrown out". On MVCollect, Pop Mart listings must show the box's authenticity code in the photos.

2. Look closely at the face

Counterfeits often get the face slightly wrong: the shape and spacing of the teeth, the size and colour of the eyes, or the expression. Compare the figure against official product photos of the exact same series and colour. Collectors commonly point to the teeth as one of the quickest tells: genuine figures have a consistent, neat row, while fakes are often uneven or a different count.

3. Check colour, finish and quality

Fakes often have colours that are a shade off, fur or vinyl that looks or feels cheaper, messy paint lines, or rough stitching. A genuine figure should look clean and consistent all over.

4. Look underneath

Many genuine figures have markings on the feet or base. Compare what you see with photos of a confirmed genuine figure from the same series, and be cautious if the markings are missing, blurry or look different.

5. If the price is too good, it usually is

Rare and secret figures sell for well above retail. A "secret" or sold-out figure offered far below what similar ones actually sell for is a warning sign.

These are general checks used by collectors, not a guarantee. When in doubt, ask the seller for more photos, or don't buy.