So, you finally got your hands on one of those little gremlins everyone on social media is obsessed with?
Yes, the Popmart viral sensation has officially hit collector chaos levels. And like all good things that blow up online, the fakes have come flooding in faster than you can say “limited edition.”
If you’re staring at your new plush monster wondering whether it’s a fashion-forward icon or a sneaky imposter – don’t worry, we have got you.
Let’s break it down.
Labubu isn’t just a weird little elf-beast thing. She (yes, she – according to the OG children’s books by Kasing Lung) is the star of The Monsters series and has become a fashion-forward freaky-cute collectible thanks to a collab with Chinese retail giant Popmart.
Think big buggy eyes, crocodile teeth, and a dash of chaotic energy. Throw in a blind-box unboxing experience and a rare-chase factor (1 in 72 boxes has an ultra-rare piece!) and you’ve got a recipe for instant Instagram clout. Even celebs like Dua Lipa and Rihanna are toting Labubus around like they’re the new Birkins. So of course… chaos ensued.
Enter: The Lafufu
Because the internet can’t have nice things without bootleg versions popping up, we now have Lafufus.
These are fake Labubus. Kinda cute, kinda wonky, and definitely causing confusion.
They’re being sold all over online marketplaces often for dirt cheap. But here’s the thing: not all knockoffs are evil. Some people actually prefer their Lafufus. More on that in a sec.
How to spot a fake (aka Lafufu vs Labubu)
If your Labubu came with side-eye and an iffy-looking foot, don’t panic just yet. Here’s how to suss out whether your monster baby is legit or living a lie:
1. Packaging
Real Labubus come in Popmart-branded box with a scannable QR code. Lafufus are often sold in a plastic bag that looks like it once held leftover noodles. Red flag.
2. Details
Authentic Labubus have pretty little touches – tiny blush, UV-reactive foot markings, tiny hands. Lafufus? Blobs with hair. Look out for weird fur, missing limbs, or one eye higher than the other.
3. Build quality
Labubus might have slight imperfections (hey, they’re handmade), but Lafufus can be wild. We’re talking floppy legs, weird fur textures, and paint jobs that scream “art class at age 5.”
4. Price check
Found one for under £10? It’s almost definitely a Lafufu. Legit Labubus are usually £25 and up, especially if they’re rare or part of a collector’s set.
Okay but, should you even buy a Lafufu?
Here’s the hot take: Maybe?
Creative playground
Some collectors buy Lafufus just to customize them. They repaint, fluff, shave, stitch outfits—you name it. It’s like Build-a-Bear meets chaotic art therapy.
Affordable entry into the fandom
Just be honest about what you’re getting. Don’t fall for listings pretending to be real Popmart goods when they’re clearly not. If it says “Labubu” but shows up looking like it had a rough night in the washing machine – you’ve got yourself a Lafufu.
Real or fake, love your weird little monster
At the end of the day, whether your toy is a certified collectible or a rogue Lafufu with a slightly lopsided grin, it’s still a part of the culture.
And hey, if Rihanna can rock one, so can you. Even if yours cost £9.99 and came with a mystery odor.
