Labubu has taken the world by storm. These quirky, monster-like creatures from the “The Monsters” series are everywhere. Because they are so popular, many low-quality copies are hitting the market. Knowing how to spot a fake Labubu is the only way to protect your money. When you buy a genuine Pop Mart figure, you are paying for quality and art. Fake versions often use cheap materials that might not be safe. In this guide, we will walk through every small detail. From the smell of the plastic to the hidden codes on the box, you will become an expert. Let’s make sure your collection only has the real deal!
Look Closely at the Packaging
The box is the first line of defense. Genuine Pop Mart products have high-quality printing. The colors on a real box are vibrant and sharp. If the image looks blurry or faded, you are likely looking at a counterfeit. Pay attention to the cardboard thickness. Real boxes are sturdy and do not crush easily. On a fake, the cardboard often feels thin and flimsy. Check the logos carefully. Scammers often make tiny typos in the brand name or legal text. If the font looks “off” or inconsistent, put it back. A real collector knows that the box is just as important as the toy inside.
The Magic of the QR Code Security Sticker
Every new Labubu comes with a special security sticker. This is one of the best ways how to spot a fake Labubu. On the side or bottom of the box, you will find a “scratch-off” area. Scratch it gently to reveal a unique QR code. Use your phone to scan this code. It should take you directly to the official Pop Mart verification website. If the link goes to a strange, third-party site, it is a fake. Also, if the code has already been scanned many times, that is a red flag. Scammers often print the same QR code on thousands of fake boxes.
Checking the Feet and Brand Stamps
Turn your Labubu over and look at the feet. Genuine figures have very clear “Pop Mart” and “Kasing Lung” stamps. These marks are engraved deeply and cleanly. On a fake Labubu, these stamps might be shallow or messy. Sometimes, the text is even misspelled! This is a classic sign of a copycat. The bottom of the feet should also be smooth and well-finished. If you see rough plastic edges or “flashing” from a mold, it is a sign of poor manufacturing. High-end art toys never leave the factory looking messy.
Assessing the Fur Quality and Texture
If you are buying a plush version, like the “Have a Seat” series, feel the fur. Real Labubu fur is incredibly soft and thick. It feels premium to the touch. Fake versions often use synthetic fibers that feel scratchy or thin. You might even see the “skin” of the toy through the fur. Another tip on how to spot a fake Labubu is to check the color. Authentic Labubus have specific, muted, or pastel tones. Fakes often have colors that are too bright or neon. Look at the direction of the fur; it should look groomed and neat, not matted.
Examine the Eyes and Facial Expression
The soul of a Labubu is in its face. Real figures have eyes that are perfectly aligned and glossy. The paint on the pupils should be centered and sharp. On a fake, the eyes might look “derpy” or slanted. Sometimes the gloss is missing, making the eyes look dull. Labubu is known for its mischievous grin and signature teeth. On a genuine piece, the teeth are defined and clean. Fakes often have “bleeding” paint where the white of the teeth meets the pink of the mouth. If the expression looks “sad” or “angry” instead of playful, it’s probably a counterfeit.
The Importance of the Stitching
For plush collectors, stitching is everything. Flip the ears and check the seams. A real Labubu has tight, invisible stitching. You shouldn’t see loose threads hanging out everywhere. Manufacturers of fakes work fast and use cheap machines. This leads to crooked lines and weak seams that might pop open. Professional collectors often look at the “hidden” areas, like under the clothes or behind the neck. If the sewing looks like a DIY project, it didn’t come from Pop Mart. Quality control is a huge part of what makes the real ones special.
Weight and Balance: The “Hand Feel”
Does the toy feel right in your hand? A genuine Labubu has a surprising weight to it. It feels solid and balanced. Because fakes use cheaper, hollow plastic, they often feel much lighter. If you have a friend with a real one, try holding them at the same time. The difference is usually very obvious. Also, real figures are designed to stand up on their own (if they have feet). Fakes are often unbalanced and fall over easily. This “hand feel” is a trick many veteran toy hunters use to verify their finds quickly.
Smell the Material
This might sound strange, but use your nose! Real Pop Mart toys are made from high-grade PVC or vinyl. They have a very mild, neutral scent. Fake toys are often made in unregulated factories using recycled plastics and cheap chemicals. These often have a very strong, “chemical” or “burnt plastic” smell. If you open a box and the scent is overwhelming, be careful. Those chemicals aren’t just a sign of a fake; they can also be bad for your health. Always prioritize your safety when collecting.
Comparing the Accessory Details
Many Labubu figures come with little hats, bags, or outfits. These accessories are great clues for how to spot a fake Labubu. Authentic accessories are made with the same care as the main figure. A tiny bag will have working zippers or clean straps. On a fake, these items are often molded as one solid piece of plastic with messy paint. Check if the accessories fit the character perfectly. If the hat is too big or the bag won’t stay on, it’s a sign that the fake-maker didn’t get the dimensions right.
Price: If It’s Too Good to Be True
We all love a bargain, but Labubus are expensive for a reason. They are “blind box” items with high demand. If you find a “Rare” or “Secret” Labubu for $10 on a random website, it is almost certainly a fake. Authentic resellers usually price items near the market value. Sites like AliExpress or Temu are filled with “repro” versions that look real in photos but are terrible in person. Always check the seller’s reputation. If they have zero reviews or only bad ones, stay away. Your wallet will thank you later!
Comparison Table: Real vs. Fake Labubu
| Feature | Genuine Labubu (Real) | Counterfeit Labubu (Fake) |
| Packaging | Thick, high-quality printing, sharp colors | Thin cardboard, blurry images, dull colors |
| Security Sticker | Has a scratch-off QR code for verification | Missing sticker or fake QR code link |
| Stamping | Deep, clear “Pop Mart” logo on feet | Shallow, messy, or misspelled text |
| Smell | Neutral or very faint plastic scent | Strong, toxic chemical or rubber smell |
| Stitching | Professional, tight, and hidden | Loose threads and crooked seams |
| Price | Market value (usually $15 – $100+) | Suspiciously cheap ($5 – $12) |
| Eyes | Glossy, centered, and perfectly painted | Dull, misaligned, or “bleeding” paint |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can a fake Labubu have a QR code?
Yes, some advanced fakes have QR codes. However, they usually lead to a fake website that looks like Pop Mart but has a different URL. Always check the web address carefully.
2. Do all real Labubus come with a card?
Most Pop Mart blind boxes include a character card. A real card is thick and has a matte or holographic finish. Fakes often have cards that are thin like regular paper.
3. Is the “Have a Seat” series faked often?
Yes! Because the plush “Have a Seat” series is extremely popular, it is one of the most faked items. Pay extra attention to the fur and the “Pop Mart” tag on the side.
4. Where is the best place to buy a real Labubu?
The safest way is to buy directly from Pop Mart stores, their official website, or trusted retailers like Mindzai or official Amazon storefronts.
5. Why are fake Labubus bad?
Besides the poor quality, fakes are often made with lead paint or phthalates. These can be harmful if children play with them or if you keep them in unventilated areas.
6. Does the head turn on a fake Labubu?
On many real vinyl figures, the head and arms can rotate smoothly. Fakes often have “stiff” joints that feel like they might break if you try to move them.
Conclusion
Collecting art toys should be fun, not stressful. Now that you know how to spot a fake Labubu, you can shop with peace of mind. Remember to check the box, scan the code, and feel the quality of the materials. While fakes are getting better every day, they can never match the craftsmanship of a real Pop Mart piece. Always buy from sources you trust and don’t be afraid to ask the seller for more photos.What is your favorite Labubu series? Let us know in the comments, and share this guide with your fellow collectors to keep the community safe from scammers!
