Planning to buy a Labubu? Here’s how to spot the fake ones before they scam you!

Saloni Jha | Jul 04, 2025, 10:57 IST

( Image credit : Indiatimes )

Labubu dolls are the newest must-have collectibles from Pop Mart, but with the craze comes chaos. Fakes, known as “Lafufus” are flooding the internet, tricking clueless buyers. From QR codes to tooth-counting and UV foot stamps, here’s your ultimate guide to making sure your Labubu is real and scam-free.

If you have not seen a Labubu yet, are you even online? These big-eyed, creepy-cute little creatures are everywhere, from TikTok/Instagram unboxings to dangling off luxury backpacks. Pop Mart’s Labubu line is the latest collector obsession, but with popularity comes a big, fat problem: counterfeits. Yup, the “Lafufus” are out in full force.

Labubu doll craze Chinese fund manager who drops liquor stocks to ride Gen Z’s emotional spending wave | Credit: X/labubusera

( Image credit : Labubu doll craze Chinese fund manager who drops liquor stocks to ride Gen Z’s emotional spending wave | Credit: X/labubusera )

While legit Labubus fly off shelves at Pop Mart stores and official online drops, desperate buyers turn to Amazon, StockX, and even shady third-party sellers. But beware, what you think is your new comfort companion might just be a scam in a shiny box.

So… how do you sniff out a fake Labubu?

Let’s break it down, Sherlock style:

1. Feel the box vibes

Real Labubu packaging is matte, soft to the touch, and has muted, dull colours. If it is glossy or overly saturated, you might be staring at a Lafufu.

2. QR code check

Genuine Pop Mart boxes have a QR code that should send you directly to Pop Mart’s official site. If it takes a weird detour or nowhere legit? Fake alert.

Where can you get the viral creepy Labubu doll in India? } Credit: X/pampurins

( Image credit : Where can you get the viral creepy Labubu doll in India? } Credit: X/pampurins )

Note: Some older Labubus may not have QR codes, so missing one is not always a deal-breaker, but be cautious.

3. Count the teeth (Yes, really)

Every authentic Labubu has exactly nine sharp teeth. Not eight. Not ten. Nine. If that little gremlin smiles with the wrong number, you are being hustled.

4. Get the tone right

Real Labubus rock a soft peachy skin tone. If your doll looks like it fake-tanned too hard or overdosed on blush, it is probably not the real deal.

5. UV Stamp = Modern Magic

From 2024 onwards, Pop Mart has hidden UV stamps on the right foot of every legit Labubu. Shine a UV light and the correct series image should appear. If nothing shows up and it is not an older model—run.

Labubu doll craze Chinese fund manager who drops liquor stocks to ride Gen Z’s emotional spending wave | Credit: X/labubusera

( Image credit : Labubu doll craze Chinese fund manager who drops liquor stocks to ride Gen Z’s emotional spending wave | Credit: X/labubusera )

Where should you actually buy from?

Your safest bets: Pop Mart’s official store or website (if you are lucky).

StockX, which runs authentication checks like it is Fort Knox.

Amazon official listings, but watch for third-party traps.

Avoid random sellers unless you are into collecting regrets.

GENERAL

Saloni Jha