Labubu Counterfeits vs Authentic Figures: The Complete 2025 Buyer Protection Guide

Introduction

As Labubu collects global popularity, counterfeit versions have become increasingly common across online marketplaces, social platforms, trade groups, and unofficial shops.
For both new and experienced collectors, understanding how to protect yourself from fakes is essential. Counterfeit Labubu figures not only lack the artistry and quality of genuine POP MART releases, but they can also undermine the value of your collection, lead to wasted purchases, and create long-term frustration.

This complete guide provides everything collectors need to safely buy Labubu figures in 2025 — from authenticity checks to marketplace guidelines, risk awareness, packaging evolution, pricing insights, and community-verified buying practices.

How Counterfeit Labubu Figures Spread

Counterfeit figures thrive for three main reasons:

Rising Global Demand

As Labubu has become a worldwide trend, especially through social media, demand has dramatically increased — with limited releases creating scarcity and higher resale prices.

High Resale Value

Some rare Labubu figures sell for several times their original price. Counterfeiters try to exploit this by replicating popular characters and packaging.

Ease of Distribution

Fake products can appear on fast-moving platforms like online marketplaces, auctions, reseller apps, and temporary pop-up shops. Without awareness, buyers can be misled easily.

Authentic Labubu vs Counterfeit: Key Differences

Below is a detailed breakdown of the most reliable authenticity checks:

1. Packaging Quality

Authentic POP MART boxes feature clean printing, sharp lines, and consistent colors.
Counterfeits often show:

• Misaligned text

• Blurry logos

• Incorrect color profiles

• Low-quality cardboard

2. Material and Texture

Official Labubu figures have a smooth vinyl finish with durable, consistent texture.
Counterfeits may feel:

• Too soft or rubbery

• Sticky

• Rough or uneven

3. Paint Details

Authentic figures have precise facial expressions, graded shadows, and detailed color placement. Fakes frequently have:

• Off-center eyes

• Smudges or uneven transitions

• Incorrect color shades

4. Weight and Balance

Authentic figures tend to have a consistent weight range depending on the series.
Counterfeits are often noticeably lighter or heavier due to cheaper materials.

5. Pose and Sculpt Accuracy

POP MART uses high-precision molds.
Fakes may have:

• Off-size proportions

• Distorted ears or limbs

• Unfinished seams

6. Series-Specific Details

Some releases include:

• Series-unique stamps

• Bottom-foot engravings

• Authentication stickers
  Counterfeiters rarely replicate these accurately.

Understanding Labubu Packaging Evolution (2019–2025)

Packaging has improved over the years, which helps with authentication.

Earlier Releases

• Minimal markings

• Simpler color schemes

• Fewer anti-counterfeit features

Mid-Era Releases

• Glossy finishes

• Sharper product renders

• Distinctive series logos

2024–2025 Releases

• Enhanced printing techniques

• Higher resolution artwork

• Consistent serial markings

• Anti-tamper seals for select editions

Knowing the packaging timeline helps buyers spot out-of-place versions that don’t match the official era.

Marketplace Risk Levels (2025 Overview)

Lowest Risk

• Official POP MART stores

• Verified retailers

• Licensed partners

Medium Risk

• Large online marketplaces with verified seller programs

• Reputable specialty collectibles shops

• Community-moderated buy/sell/trade groups

Highest Risk

• Random social-media sellers

• Unverified “private shops”

• Suspiciously low-priced listings

• Auction listings with poor photos

As a rule:
If the price is significantly below the known market average, assume it's counterfeit until proven otherwise.

Safe Buying Checklist for 2025

Before purchasing any Labubu figure, confirm the following:

1. Clear, high-resolution photos of both packaging and figure

2. Visible POP MART logos with crisp printing

3. Correct series colours and proportions

4. Seller reviews mentioning authenticity

5. Reasonable pricing compared to market averages

6. Return or refund policies clearly stated

7. Consistent product information (series name, year, edition, etc.)

Common Red Flags to Avoid

• Sellers refusing additional photos

• Listings using only stock images

• Prices far below typical resale value

• Generic descriptions (“Labubu style,” “Labubu-inspired”)

• Incorrect fonts or misprinted boxes

• No mention of the series name

• Sellers contacting you privately after commenting on posts

How to Protect Yourself When Trading or Reselling

If you trade Labubu figures rather than buy outright, follow these principles:

Request Detailed Verification

Ask for photos of:

• All sides of the box

• Bottom stamping

• Close-ups of eyes and facial expression

• Paint lines around hands, ears, and feet

Use Trusted Platforms

Always use platforms that offer buyer protection. Avoid direct, unprotected transfers.

Document the Trade

Keep screenshots of:

• Chat logs

• Offered items

• Shipping confirmations

• Tracking numbers

This protects you in the event of disputes.

Long-Term Protection for Collectors

Keep Packaging in Mint Condition

Collectors value unopened boxes or well-preserved packaging.

Store Figures Safely

Avoid direct sunlight, high humidity, or dust accumulation.

Maintain a Personal Database

Record:

• Series

• Purchase date

• Year

• Price

• Seller

• Authenticity notes

This helps with future resale or appraisal.

Conclusion

As Labubu continues to grow in global popularity, so do the risks associated with fake or misleading listings. Understanding how to verify authenticity, recognise counterfeit patterns, choose safe marketplaces, and protect your purchases is essential for every collector.
By following the guidelines in this 2025 buyer protection guide, you can confidently navigate the Labubu market and build a collection with integrity, quality, and lasting value.