Have you ever walked through a toy store and seen a cute, toothy monster staring back at you? If so, you might have met Labubu, the viral sensation that has taken the world by storm. But wait! Recently, a new name has been popping up in collector circles: Lafufu. Many people are asking, “What is the deal with Lafufu vs Labubu?”
At first glance, they look almost the same. They both have long ears, serrated teeth, and mischievous smiles. However, there is a big difference between an official collectible and a “look-alike” toy. Whether you are a hardcore collector or just looking for a cute gift, knowing the truth about these two can save you money and a lot of heartbreak. Let’s dive into the whimsical world of these monsters and find out which one belongs on your shelf!
The Secret Origin of Labubu
To understand the Lafufu vs Labubu debate, we first have to look at the original creator. Labubu was born from the imagination of Kasing Lung, a famous artist from Hong Kong. Inspired by Nordic fairy tales and myths, he created a group of characters called “The Monsters.”
Labubu is the most famous of the bunch. Even though she looks a bit scary with those sharp teeth, she is actually very kind-hearted. Since partnering with Pop Mart, Labubu has become a global icon. People stand in long lines just to get a “blind box” containing a surprise version of this character. This popularity is exactly why we now see other versions, like Lafufu, appearing in the market.
What Exactly is Lafufu?
So, if Labubu is the official star, what is Lafufu? In most cases, “Lafufu” is a term used to describe unofficial or counterfeit versions of the original toy. When a toy becomes very famous, other companies often try to copy the design to make a quick profit.
However, some people use the name Lafufu to refer to “The Monsters” inspired toys that aren’t quite the same as the Pop Mart releases. While they might look similar, they don’t have the same history or value. When comparing Lafufu vs Labubu, you are usually comparing a high-end designer art toy with a budget-friendly imitation.
How to Spot a Real Labubu Instantly
When looking at Lafufu vs Labubu, your eyes (and hands) are your best tools. A real Labubu feels “premium.” The vinyl is smooth, and if it’s a plush version, the fur is incredibly soft and doesn’t fall out.
One of the biggest giveaways is the face. Real Labubus have a soft, peach-colored face with very clean paint lines. If you see a monster with a face that looks too bright, uneven, or “smudged,” you are likely looking at a Lafufu. Also, check the feet! Official Pop Mart toys have clear branding on the bottom of the feet that is crisp and easy to read.
The Mystery of the Teeth and Eyes
If you want to be a pro at the Lafufu vs Labubu challenge, look at the mouth. Authentic Labubu characters almost always have nine teeth. These teeth are sharp, pointy, and perfectly aligned.
Fake versions, often called Lafufus, might have more or fewer teeth. Sometimes the teeth look dull or are painted poorly. Another secret is the eyes. Genuine Labubu eyes have a “shiny ridge” around the pupil that catches the light. Most imitations miss this tiny detail, making the eyes look flat and dull.
Packaging Matters: Don’t Get Fooled by the Box
The box is your first line of defense. Official Pop Mart packaging is high-quality with a matte finish. It will always have a holographic security sticker and a QR code. When you scan that code, it should take you directly to the official Pop Mart website for verification.
In the world of Lafufu vs Labubu, the fake boxes often look “shiny” or “cheap.” The printing might be blurry, and the colors might look slightly off. If the box looks like it was printed at home, it probably isn’t the real deal!
Why is Labubu So Expensive?
You might wonder why there is such a price gap in the Lafufu vs Labubu market. The reason is “Art Toy” value. Labubu isn’t just a plastic doll; it is a piece of art designed by a world-class illustrator.
Because Pop Mart releases these in limited editions and blind boxes, they become rare. Some rare Labubus sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars! A Lafufu, being an imitation, has no resale value for collectors. You are paying for the brand, the quality, and the artistic soul of the character when you buy the original.
Is it Okay to Buy a Lafufu?
This is a personal choice. If you just love the look of the monster and don’t care about collecting or brand names, a Lafufu might seem like a bargain. It’s a way to get the look for a fraction of the cost.
However, keep in mind that official toys follow safety standards. Cheaper imitations might use lower-quality plastics or dyes that aren’t as safe, especially for kids. When you choose Lafufu vs Labubu, you are also choosing between supporting the original artist, Kasing Lung, or supporting a factory that copied his work.
The Cultural Impact of “The Monsters”
Labubu has moved beyond just being a toy. It is a fashion statement! You will see celebrities hanging Labubu charms on their designer handbags. This “bag charm” trend has made the demand skyrocket.
Because the demand is so high, the market for Lafufu has grown too. People who can’t find the real thing often settle for the look-alike. But for a true fan, nothing beats the feeling of unboxing a real Pop Mart blind box and finding that “Secret” hidden figure!
Where to Buy Authentic Labubu Toys
To avoid ending up with a Lafufu when you wanted a Labubu, you must shop at the right places. The safest way is to go to an official Pop Mart store or their official website.
If you are buying from a secondary site like eBay or a local seller, always ask for photos of the QR code and the holographic sticker. If the price seems “too good to be true” (like a $50 toy selling for $5), it is almost certainly a Lafufu.
Conclusion
In the end, the winner of Lafufu vs Labubu depends on what you value. If you want a piece of art, a solid investment, and a high-quality friend, Labubu is the only way to go. If you are just looking for a “toy” and don’t mind the lack of quality or authenticity, you might encounter Lafufu.
My advice? Save up for the real thing. The joy of owning an authentic piece of Kasing Lung’s world is much better than the disappointment of a falling-apart fake!
FAQs
1. How many teeth does a real Labubu have? Most standard Labubu figures have exactly 9 sharp, serrated teeth.
2. Is Lafufu a different character? No, Lafufu is generally not a separate character. It is usually a nickname for counterfeit or unofficial “Labubu-style” toys.
3. Does Labubu have a QR code? Yes! Every authentic Pop Mart Labubu comes with a box that has a scannable QR code for authenticity verification.
4. Can I wash my Labubu plush? It is best to surface clean them with a damp cloth. Putting them in a washing machine can ruin the delicate fur and the internal structure.
5. Why is the “Secret” Labubu so hard to find? The “Secret” or “Chase” figures are packed in very low ratios (often 1 in 144 boxes), making them very rare and valuable.
6. Who created Labubu? Labubu was created by the Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung in 2015 as part of “The Monsters” series.
References: * Pop Mart Official Global Site – Brand History.
- Kasing Lung Artist Profile – How2Work and Pop Mart Collaboration Archives.
- Collector Guidelines: How to Spot Counterfeit Designer Toys (2025 Edition).