How to Spot a Real Labubu vs. a Fake Lafufu

by Labubu Keychains Editorial Team

Jul 5, 2025

Labubu

Labubu, the enchanting elf-like creature from Pop Mart’s The Monsters series, has become a global favorite among designer toy collectors. With her quirky personality, pointed ears, and signature nine serrated teeth, Labubu has captured hearts—and shelves—worldwide. But with fame comes imitation, and unfortunately, the market has been flooded with counterfeit versions, often cheekily dubbed “Lafufu.”

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a new fan, protecting your collection from fakes is essential. This guide will walk you through the key signs of an authentic Labubu, so you can shop with confidence and avoid falling for a Lafufu.

1. The Nine-Teeth Rule: Count Carefully

Let’s start with Labubu’s most iconic feature—her grin. Authentic Labubu figures always have exactly nine serrated teeth. This detail is consistent across all official Pop Mart releases and is one of the easiest ways to spot a fake.

What to look for:

Count the teeth: there should be nine.
Check the shape: they should be evenly spaced and serrated.
Fakes often have too few, too many, or poorly shaped teeth.

If the smile doesn’t match, it’s likely a Lafufu.

2. Packaging Tells a Story

The box your Labubu comes in says a lot about its authenticity. Pop Mart’s packaging is thoughtfully designed, with subtle details that counterfeiters often overlook.

Authentic Packaging Features:

Matte finish with a soft, muted color palette
Embossed series names like “Exciting Macaron” or “Have A Seat”
Fabric tag (V1): Cream-colored with clear branding
Paper tag (V2): Clean white with “The Monsters” text

Red Flags in Fakes:

Glossy, overly vibrant boxes
Tags with bright gold hues or blurry text
Missing or incorrect series names

Always inspect the box before you buy—especially if it looks too flashy or off-brand.

3. Scan the QR Code (And Where It Takes You)

Every genuine Labubu figure comes with a QR code on the packaging. When scanned, it should direct you to an official Pop Mart verification page.

How to check:

Use your phone to scan the QR code.
Make sure it links to a legitimate Pop Mart domain.
Some boxes also include a unique authentication code inside.

Warning Signs:

QR code leads to a suspicious or unrelated site
No QR code at all
Authentication card is missing or poorly printed

If the link feels sketchy, trust your instincts—it’s probably not the real deal.

4. Feel the Quality: It’s in the Details

Real Labubu figures are known for their high-quality craftsmanship. From the softness of the fur to the clarity of the eyes, every detail is carefully executed.

Authentic Labubu Should Have:

Clear, glossy eyes
Smooth paint lines and even seams
Soft, plush fur (especially in V2)
A balanced, slightly weighty feel

Fake Lafufus Often Have:

Cloudy or uneven eyes
Blotchy paint or sloppy stitching
Stiff or overly light materials
Awkward proportions

Hold the figure in your hand—if it feels cheap or off-balance, it’s likely not genuine.

5. The UV Foot Mark: A Hidden Signature

Here’s a lesser-known but incredibly effective trick: shine a UV light on Labubu’s right foot.

What You’ll See:

A small, glowing picture or symbol unique to authentic Pop Mart figures

Fakes Often:

Don’t glow at all
Show a distorted or incorrect mark

If you have a UV flashlight, this is a quick and easy way to verify your figure.

6. Accessories Matter More Than You Think

Labubu’s accessories—especially in themed series like Have A Seat—are more than just cute add-ons. They’re part of the authenticity puzzle.

Genuine Accessories:

Well-crafted and proportionate
Painted with care and detail
Fit the figure perfectly

Fake Accessories:

Flimsy or poorly painted
Don’t match the figure’s scale
Clothes may not fit due to size differences

If the accessories feel like an afterthought, they probably are.

7. Know Your Seller: Trust Is Everything

Where you buy your Labubu is just as important as what you buy.

Safe Places to Shop:

Official Pop Mart stores and website
Trusted retailers like labubuplushkeychains.com
Verified resale platforms with buyer protection

Avoid:

Social media sellers with no reviews
Websites with misspellings (e.g., “popmaart” or “popmarrt”)
Deals that seem too good to be true

Many collectors have been scammed by fake websites offering “discounted” Labubus—don’t let that be you.

8. Learn from the Community

Labubu fans are passionate and helpful. Online communities like Reddit, TikTok, and YouTube are full of side-by-side comparisons, unboxing videos, and authenticity tips.

What You’ll Find:

Visual guides comparing real vs. fake figures
Collector feedback on new releases
Warnings about known counterfeit trends

For example, some users have pointed out that fake V2s mimic the shiny finish but lack the correct texture. Others have flagged suspicious figures like a blue Lafufu with an odd foot accessory—a clear red flag.

Final Tips: Stay Smart, Stay Safe

When it comes to collecting Labubu, a little vigilance goes a long way. Here’s a quick checklist to help you spot the real deal:

Authenticity Checklist:

Nine serrated teeth
Matte packaging with embossed details
QR code that links to Pop Mart
Clear, quality craftsmanship
UV-reactive foot mark
Well-made accessories
Trusted seller

If you’re ever unsure, don’t hesitate to ask fellow collectors or consult a trusted retailer like labubuplushkeychains.com, where authenticity is guaranteed and every figure comes with the proper packaging and verification tools.

In Summary

Labubu’s rise to fame has made her a target for counterfeits—but with the right knowledge, you can protect your collection. Whether you’re hunting for a rare DuoDuo or just starting your Labubu journey, knowing how to spot a fake ensures your collection stays authentic, valuable, and full of charm.

So next time you unbox a Labubu, take a moment to count the teeth, scan the code, and shine that UV light. Because in the world of designer toys, the details make all the difference.