How to Tell If a Labubu Is Real: 5 Tips for Spotting Authentic Collectibles
If you have ever wondered how to tell if a Labubu is real, you are not alone. Labubu, created by Kasing Lung and released in collaboration with POP MART, has become one of the most popular collectible designer toys in recent years. With its quirky facial expressions, whimsical monster-inspired designs, and limited-edition releases, Labubu has captured the hearts of collectors worldwide. But with rising popularity comes an inevitable flood of counterfeits. Many collectors, especially newcomers, find it hard to distinguish between an authentic Labubu and a fake one. Since fake figures often look similar to the real thing at first glance, it takes a careful eye and some know-how to identify authentic collectibles. In this guide, you will learn the key methods that collectors use to spot genuine Labubu figures and avoid disappointment when building their collections.
Check the Packaging
One of the first things you should do when trying to confirm whether a Labubu is authentic is to examine the packaging. POP MART, the company that officially produces and distributes Labubu, takes packaging quality very seriously. Their boxes and wraps are designed not only to protect the figure but also to reflect the artistry and branding of the series.
An authentic Labubu package will feature crisp, clean printing with vibrant colors that do not look faded or blurry. The designs are sharp, the lines are precise, and the logos for POP MART and Kasing Lung are displayed prominently. Counterfeit products often fail at this level. The boxes may appear dull, the printing slightly misaligned, or the logos may look altered. It is not uncommon for fakes to have spelling mistakes in the text or poorly translated descriptions.
The quality of the cardboard itself can also be a clue. Authentic packaging uses sturdy material that feels durable, while counterfeit boxes may feel thin or flimsy. The figure inside should be carefully fitted into protective material, not rattling around loosely. If you purchase a sealed blind box, the shrink wrap and seals should be neat and intact, not poorly applied. Always compare the packaging you have with images of official packaging from POP MART’s website, as even small differences can reveal whether the item is genuine.
Inspect the Figure’s Details
The figure itself is the most important element, and it is where the biggest differences between authentic and fake Labubu toys become clear. POP MART produces Labubu with high-quality craftsmanship, and every detail is carefully considered.
A real Labubu figure will have clean paintwork with consistent color application. The eyes, mouth, and other facial features should be sharp and neatly painted, not smudged or uneven. Counterfeit figures often have sloppy paint jobs, with colors bleeding outside the lines or details that look off compared to official designs. Look closely at the expression on the face, as even minor differences in shape or angle can reveal a fake.
The texture of the figure is also important. Authentic Labubu toys have a smooth, well-finished surface without rough seams. Fakes, by contrast, may have noticeable seams, bumps, or imperfections left from poor-quality molds. Sometimes counterfeit figures are slightly larger or smaller than the originals, so comparing them side by side with official measurements can help.
Another clue lies in the colors and finishes. POP MART uses precise shades and finishes for Labubu’s various editions, whether matte, glossy, or metallic. Counterfeiters often struggle to replicate these finishes exactly, resulting in colors that look slightly off or finishes that feel cheap. For example, a limited-edition metallic Labubu should have a high-quality shine, not a dull or uneven look.
When inspecting your figure, it is always helpful to look up the official product photos for that specific Labubu edition. POP MART and Kasing Lung often release detailed promotional images online. Comparing your figure with these official images will make discrepancies easier to spot.
Look for Authenticity Labels and Codes
POP MART includes authenticity seals, QR codes, and verification stickers on their packaging to help collectors identify genuine products. These features are some of the strongest indicators of whether your Labubu is real.
On most official Labubu packaging, you will find a small sticker or printed QR code. Scanning the QR code should direct you to POP MART’s official site or verification platform, confirming the product’s authenticity. If the code does not work or leads to a suspicious site, the item may be counterfeit.
The authenticity labels themselves should be clean, high quality, and well attached. Fake stickers often look like poor imitations, with blurry printing, crooked placement, or cheap adhesive. Some counterfeiters try to replicate QR codes, but they usually fail to link to POP MART’s system.
Collectors should also note batch numbers or production details listed on official boxes. These details provide traceability and are a sign of POP MART’s strict quality standards. Counterfeit boxes often skip these numbers or print random sequences that mean nothing. If your Labubu packaging lacks any authenticity markers, it is highly likely to be fake.
Compare Prices and Sources
Price is another important factor when determining authenticity. While everyone loves a good deal, if a price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Authentic Labubu figures, especially limited editions, can be expensive due to their popularity and scarcity. Counterfeit sellers often lure buyers with prices that are significantly lower than the market value.
If you see a rare Labubu being sold for a fraction of what other sellers are asking, that should raise a red flag. Genuine collectors and retailers know the value of these figures, so big discounts are unusual unless the item is used or the seller is running a verified promotion.
Where you buy your Labubu is just as important as the price. The safest option is to purchase directly from official POP MART stores, their online shop, or authorized retailers. POP MART frequently announces official sales channels, and sticking to those helps reduce your risk. Trusted specialty toy stores, collectible conventions, and well-reviewed resellers can also be safe sources.
Be cautious when buying from unverified third-party sellers on auction sites, social media platforms, or local marketplaces. Many counterfeit figures are sold in these spaces, often with misleading photos. If you are buying secondhand, always ask for multiple pictures of the figure and its packaging, and if possible, meet the seller in person to verify before purchasing.
Community and Collector Resources
Another effective way to tell if a Labubu is real is to tap into the collector community. Labubu has a passionate fan base, and many experienced collectors share tips, guides, and comparison photos to help others avoid fakes.
Joining online forums, social media groups, or dedicated collector communities gives you access to valuable insights. Collectors often post side-by-side comparisons of real and fake Labubu figures, pointing out subtle differences in paint, packaging, or labels. These resources can save you from costly mistakes.
You can also share photos of your Labubu with the community to get feedback. Experienced collectors who are familiar with the nuances of different editions are often quick to spot a counterfeit. This kind of peer verification is especially useful for newcomers who may not yet know all the details to look for.
Additionally, checking official POP MART announcements, catalogs, or product listings can help. POP MART regularly showcases their latest releases, complete with official images and product details. Keeping up to date with these resources means you will always know what the genuine figure should look like.