Labubu has quickly risen from a niche art toy into a true global phenomenon. With its unique “ugly-cute” charm and endorsements from cultural icons such as BLACKPINK’s Lisa, this quirky figure has become a must-have collectible for fans around the world. The skyrocketing demand has led to frequent sellouts and an almost legendary scarcity. Yet alongside this success, a serious problem has emerged. Counterfeit products are now flooding the market and many collectors including celebrities have been tricked into buying fakes.
For passionate fans and collectors the biggest concern is simple. How can you be sure the Labubu you purchased with your hard-earned money is authentic? With counterfeits growing more sophisticated every year it is not enough to rely on packaging alone. The answer lies in knowing exactly what to check and following the official authentication methods provided by Pop Mart, the creator and copyright holder of Labubu.
To protect yourself from scams and ensure that your collection remains genuine Pop Mart recommends a three-step authentication process. By carefully applying these checks whether you are buying directly from official channels or through resellers you can practice what collectors call “safe collecting” and truly enjoy the value of your Labubu without regret.
Step 1. Scan the Unique Authentication Code and Check Usage History
The strongest proof of authenticity comes from the unique verification code that accompanies Labubu figures.
Labubu 3rd Generation Highlight Series products include a unique code that can be scanned through Pop Mart’s official platform. The system instantly tells you whether the product is authentic.
Important note: Some counterfeits also display copied or stolen codes. What matters is not simply the presence of a code but its usage record. If the platform shows that the code has been used multiple times this is a clear sign that the product is counterfeit since authentic codes should only be registered once.
Step 2. Inspect Packaging Details and Official Stamps on the Figure
Physical evidence is just as important as digital verification. Always check these signs:
Anti-Counterfeit Sticker: Every official Labubu box has a precisely placed sticker with high quality finishing. Poor placement or blurry printing should immediately raise suspicion.
POP MART Logo Stamp: Authentic figures have a clean and even Pop Mart logo engraved or stamped on the bottom. If the stamp is missing faint or poorly aligned it is highly likely to be fake.
UV Stamp on 2nd Generation: For the “Let’s Play Together” series, shine a UV light on the sole of the figure. A hidden stamp that glows under ultraviolet light is present only on genuine products.
Step 3. Compare Fine Craftsmanship and Finishing Details
Even the best counterfeits cannot fully replicate the delicate quality of authentic Labubu figures. Train your eye to notice the differences:
Facial Features: Authentic figures display sharp and consistent paintwork on teeth, cheeks, and nose. Counterfeits often show uneven colors smudged lines or messy finishes.
Eyes of the 3rd Generation: Real Labubu eyes have gradient tones and a subtle glitter effect that adds depth and sparkle. Counterfeit eyes often look flat, dull, or lack the refined glitter finish.
Color Harmony in Tie-Dye Versions: Some 3rd Generation pieces use a tie-dye technique which naturally creates slight variations between figures. Still the overall color tone should remain harmonious. If the entire figure looks faded washed out or unnaturally dark it may be a counterfeit.
Pop Mart’s Strong Measures Against Counterfeits
Pop Mart takes counterfeit threats seriously and operates a dedicated legal team that works globally to track and eliminate fakes. They actively cooperate with local authorities online platforms and legal institutions to stop counterfeit distribution and protect collectors. This commitment ensures that buyers can enjoy their Labubu collections with peace of mind.
Final Advice for Collectors
The safest way to enjoy your Labubu journey is to purchase directly from official Pop Mart stores authorized online shops or trusted pop-up stores. When dealing with resellers always ask for proof of purchase and carefully compare the product with the three-step checklist above. A genuine Labubu not only protects your investment but also guarantees that you are experiencing the authentic magic of this cultural icon.
Do not let counterfeits ruin the joy of collecting. Be a smart and cautious collector and let Labubu remain the special treasure it was meant to be.