Labubu Dolls Face Lafufu Fakes as Pop Mart Warns Collectors
Labubu Craze Fuels Fake Doll Market, Collectors Warned of “Lafufu” Knockoffs
BEIJING — Chinese toy giant Pop Mart is riding high on the runaway success of its Labubu dolls, with profits surging nearly 400%. But the brand’s meteoric rise has also unleashed a wave of counterfeits, with fake versions — mockingly dubbed “Lafufu” — now flooding the market.
For collectors, the challenge is growing: how to spot a genuine Labubu from a convincing fake. Pop Mart, which has held the exclusive license with artist Kasing Lung since 2019, has urged fans to stay vigilant against misinformation and knockoffs.
Telltale Signs of Authenticity
Packaging: Real Pop Mart blind boxes carry a smooth matte finish, professional color tones, and a holographic seal with crisp lettering. Counterfeits often appear glossy, flimsy, or feature blurry text.
QR Codes: Scanning an official QR code should link directly to Pop Mart’s anti-counterfeit portal. Any mismatch signals a fake.
Branding: Misspellings such as “POP MRT” or crooked logos are clear red flags.
The Dolls Themselves
Vinyl Versions: Authentic Labubus feels smooth, matte, and firm. Imitations may feel brittle, plasticky, or oddly soft.
Plush Versions: Genuine pieces use dense, soft fur with neat stitching — unlike counterfeits, which often show loose threads.
Paint & Sculpt: Pop Mart’s dolls feature precise detailing, glossy eyes, and exactly nine sculpted teeth. Knockoffs often miss these details.
Hidden Marks: Newer models carry an embossed “POP MART” logo, Kasing Lung’s name, and even a UV silhouette on the foot for added security.
Collector Safety
Experts recommend buying directly from Pop Mart stores, authorized retailers like Amazon, or through the official Pop Mart app, which also offers authenticity verification. Shoppers are warned to be cautious when dealing with third-party platforms or social media sellers without guarantees.
With demand showing no signs of slowing, Pop Mart’s Labubu dolls remain a hot commodity — but so too does the counterfeit trade. For fans, careful checks may be the only way to ensure their prized collection stays authentic.
Mutib Khalid is a skilled content writer and digital marketer with a knack for crafting compelling narratives and optimizing digital strategies. Excel in creating engaging content that drives results and enhances online presence. Passionate about blending creativity with data-driven approaches, Mutib Khalid helps brands connect with their audience and achieve their goals.
