How to Tell If Labubu Is Real: A Complete Authenticity Guide

Introduction

Labubu, the mischievous and beloved character from the Kai Land series by Hong Kong-based artist Kasing Lung, has become a highly sought-after collectible in the designer toy market. With its rising popularity, counterfeit versions have flooded the market, making it difficult for collectors to distinguish between authentic and fake Labubu figures.

This comprehensive guide will help you determine whether a Labubu figure is genuine by examining key details such as packaging, sculpt quality, paintwork, and official markings. We’ll also provide expert insights and real-world examples to ensure you make informed purchasing decisions.

Why Authenticity Matters

Before diving into verification methods, it’s important to understand why owning an authentic Labubu matters:

Investment Value – Genuine Labubu figures appreciate over time, while fakes lose value.
Quality Assurance – Official figures have superior craftsmanship, paint, and durability.
Supporting the Artist – Counterfeits harm Kasing Lung and the designer toy community.

Now, let’s explore the key indicators of authenticity.

1. Packaging and Box Details

Official Labubu Packaging Features

Authentic Labubu figures come in high-quality packaging with distinct characteristics:

Branding & Logos – Look for the official Kai Land or Pop Mart branding.
Holographic Stickers – Many genuine figures include a holographic authenticity sticker.
Box Material – Official packaging uses thick, sturdy cardboard with precise printing.

Red Flags for Fake Packaging:

Blurry or misaligned printing
Missing or poorly replicated holograms
Flimsy, thin cardboard

Expert Insight:
“Counterfeiters often cut corners on packaging. A genuine Labubu box will have crisp, vibrant colors and no spelling errors.” – Ming Yao, Designer Toy Collector & Authenticator

2. Sculpt and Mold Quality

Examining the Figure’s Sculpt

Labubu’s unique design has subtle details that counterfeiters struggle to replicate:

Facial Features – Authentic Labubu has sharp, well-defined teeth and expressive eyes.
Proportions – The head-to-body ratio is consistent with Kasing Lung’s original design.
Surface Texture – Genuine figures have smooth, bubble-free resin with no warping.

Comparison Example:

Real Labubu: Teeth are finely sculpted, with a slightly asymmetrical grin.
Fake Labubu: Teeth may appear too uniform or poorly defined.

3. Paint Application and Finishing

Authentic Paintwork Characteristics

High-end designer toys like Labubu undergo meticulous hand-painting:

Color Accuracy – Official figures use vibrant, consistent colors (e.g., Labubu’s signature green).
Clean Lines – No bleeding or sloppy edges in the paintwork.
Gloss/Matte Finishes – Certain parts (like eyes) may have a glossy finish, while the body is matte.

Common Fake Paint Mistakes:

Overspray or uneven shading
Dull or incorrect colors
Paint smudges on unintended areas

Case Study:
A counterfeit Labubu “Skull Panda” was found with a noticeably washed-out green hue compared to the official release.

4. Official Markings and Serial Numbers

Where to Find Authenticity Marks

Most genuine Labubu figures include:

Engraved Base Markings – Look for “Kai Land,” “Kasing Lung,” or “Pop Mart” engravings.
Serial Numbers – Some limited editions have unique numbering.
QR Codes – Official releases may include scannable verification codes.

Warning Signs:

Missing or shallow engravings
Generic or incorrect branding (e.g., “Labu” instead of “Labubu”)

5. Weight and Material Quality

How Weight Indicates Authenticity

Authentic Labubu figures are made from high-quality resin or vinyl, giving them a substantial feel:

Resin Figures – Heavier and more durable.
Vinyl Figures – Slightly lighter but still sturdy.

Fake Alert:

Excessively lightweight figures (often cheap plastic).
Hollow-feeling parts (counterfeiters cut material costs).

6. Purchase Source and Seller Reputation

Where to Buy Authentic Labubu Figures

To minimize the risk of fakes, purchase from:

✅ Official Retailers:

Pop Mart stores & website
Kasing Lung’s authorized partners

✅ Trusted Resellers:

Reputable eBay sellers with authenticity guarantees
Designer toy marketplaces like Mercari Japan or Mandarin Duck Collective

❌ Avoid:

Unverified sellers on AliExpress, Wish, or Facebook Marketplace
“Too good to be true” deals (e.g., $10 Labubu)

Pro Tip:
“Always ask for proof of purchase or original receipts when buying secondhand.” – Lisa Chen, Pop Mart Community Moderator

7. Comparing with Official Reference Images

Using Official Releases for Verification

Before purchasing, cross-check with:

Kasing Lung’s Instagram (@kasinglung)
Pop Mart’s official product images
Collector forums like Toy Chronicle or Reddit’s r/vinyltoys

Example:
The Labubu Tiki series has distinct tribal markings—counterfeits often misplace or omit these.

8. Expert Authentication Services

When in Doubt, Get a Professional Opinion

For high-value Labubu figures (e.g., Labubu the Cursed), consider:

Third-Party Authentication – Services like LegitGrails specialize in designer toys.
Community Verification – Post clear photos in collector groups for feedback.

Conclusion: Protect Your Collection

With counterfeit Labubu figures becoming increasingly sophisticated, knowing how to spot fakes is essential for collectors. By examining packaging, sculpt details, paint quality, markings, and purchase sources, you can confidently verify authenticity.

Final Checklist for Authentic Labubu:
✔️ Official branding & holographic stickers
✔️ Sharp sculpt details (teeth, eyes, proportions)
✔️ High-quality paint with no defects
✔️ Engraved base markings & serial numbers
✔️ Proper weight and material feel
✔️ Purchased from trusted sellers

Stay vigilant, support the artist, and happy collecting!

Additional Resources

By following these guidelines, you’ll ensure your Labubu collection remains genuine and valuable. Have questions? Drop them in the comments below! 🚀

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