Don’t get scammed! Learn how to spot fake vs real Labubu dolls with this 2025 expert guide. Discover key authenticity markers, packaging tips, and red flags every collector must know.
Introduction: Why Labubu Counterfeits Are a Big Problem in 2025
Labubu dolls—designed by Kasing Lung and manufactured by POP MART—have become one of the most sought-after designer toys in the world. With viral fan art, rare limited editions, and rising resale value, Labubu toys are now prime targets for counterfeiters.
In 2025, the market is flooded with fake Labubu figures, often indistinguishable to the untrained eye. If you’re a new or seasoned collector, knowing how to tell the difference between real vs fake Labubu dolls is crucial.
This in-depth guide offers:
- Side-by-side comparisons
- Real-world collector tips
- Packaging clues and serial indicators
- AI-based authentication tools
Why Fake Labubu Dolls Exist
Counterfeiters target high-value, low-supply toys—and Labubu fits both categories:
- Labubu’s popularity has exploded across Asia, Europe, and North America.
- Limited drops, blind boxes, and exclusivity drive up prices.
- Rare figures like the Moonlight Forest Night or Bride of Darkness can sell for $200–$400+.
This price gap creates incentive for bootleggers to reproduce copies and sell them on unauthorized platforms.
Where Fake Labubu Dolls Are Sold Most Frequently
You’re more likely to find fakes in these locations:
- ❌ Low-rated eBay sellers
- ❌ AliExpress vendors without POP MART partnership
- ❌ Unofficial Facebook/Instagram shops
- ❌ TikTok live sales with no verification
Pro Tip: Always ask for detailed photos and check seller reviews before purchasing.
Real vs Fake Labubu Dolls: What to Look For
1. Packaging Differences
✅ Real:
- Crisp box print with POP MART and Kasing Lung logos
- Serial code or product ID sticker
- High-quality card insert
- Reflective hologram stickers (on premium drops)
❌ Fake:
- Blurry or pixelated box art
- Misspelled logos or missing copyright
- No product ID or misaligned barcodes
- Inconsistent size/shape of packaging
2. Figure Paint Quality
✅ Real Labubu:
- Clean, sharp lines
- Smooth, uniform paint finish
- Hand-painted accents or textures
❌ Fake Labubu:
- Uneven colors
- Paint bleeding or smudges
- Poor texture or missing sculpt details
🔍 Inspect eyes, mouth, and hands—these are usually sloppy in counterfeits.
3. Material Quality and Weight
✅ Real:
- Solid, durable PVC or vinyl
- Balanced weight and finish
❌ Fake:
- Lighter, hollow plastic feel
- Sticky or rubbery surface
Pro Tip: Real Labubu figures have a quality feel in hand—fakes feel “cheap.”
4. Serial Number or Authenticity Mark
Most premium Labubu figures come with:
- Laser-etched serial numbers (base or foot)
- Limited edition stamp (e.g., “1 of 800”)
- QR verification (via POP MART app)
Fakes lack all of the above.
5. POP MART App Authentication Tool
In 2025, POP MART released a smartphone authentication tool inside their app. Here’s how it works:
- Open the official POP MART app.
- Tap “Verify Product.”
- Scan the barcode or product code.
- Compare results against database.
Note: Not all older series are scannable—but newer Labubu drops are.
Real vs Fake Labubu Dolls – Visual Comparison Table
| Feature | Real Labubu Toy | Fake Labubu Toy |
|---|---|---|
| Box Print Quality | Crisp, high-res, correct logos | Faded, pixelated, missing details |
| Paint Details | Clean lines, no overflow | Sloppy, inconsistent color |
| Material | High-quality vinyl/PVC | Thin, brittle plastic |
| Accessories | Perfect fit, textured | Loose or poorly painted accessories |
| Serial or QR Code | Present on base or foot | Missing or fake numbers |
| Price (Too Low?) | Market average or higher | Suspiciously cheap |
Top Labubu Figures Frequently Counterfeited
- Moonlight Forest Night (Secret)
- Bride of Darkness – Halloween Drop
- Rainbow Wizard Labubu
- Labubu × Kuromi Collab
- Steampunk DCON Exclusive
Why These? These figures are rare, expensive, and in high demand—making them prime targets.
How AI is Helping Labubu Collectors Spot Fakes in 2025
Collectors are now using AI tools to verify authenticity:
- AI Image Comparison Apps (e.g., CollectIQ): Upload photos and match with real product images.
- AI Product Verification Bots: Scan barcodes and packaging details from live camera.
- Community AI Tools: Discord bots that estimate authenticity based on multiple uploaded angles.
Bonus: Some collectors create AI-generated visuals of fake vs real for training their groups.
Red Flags to Watch When Buying Labubu Online
- 🚩 Prices that are 50% lower than market
- 🚩 Poor lighting or blurred seller photos
- 🚩 No returns or buyer protection policy
- 🚩 “No box” listings with no explanation
What To Do: Always request box + figure photo, close-ups of feet/base, and QR code if available.
Safe Places to Buy Authentic Labubu in 2025
- POP MART Official Website / App
- StockX – Authenticated Listings
- eBay – Top Rated Sellers Only
- Toy Street / ToyDonut (Verified Retailers)
- Collector Forums (with seller references)
Bonus Tip: Use POP MART’s in-app scanner immediately after unboxing.
Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Labubu Collection from Fakes
In today’s booming collector economy, spotting a fake Labubu toy isn’t just about saving money—it’s about preserving the integrity of the hobby. As values climb and fanbases grow, counterfeiters are getting smarter, but so are collectors.
Use this guide to:
- Authenticate every Labubu figure you buy
- Help others in your community learn the signs
- Report suspicious sellers to platforms like POP MART, eBay, or StockX
Remember: True Labubu figures carry emotion, story, and artistry—don’t settle for knockoffs.
