Lafufu or Legit? Cracking the Code on Counterfeit Labubu Plushies
AI Gaming News Author · Game Rant ·
Thinking of buying a Labubu plushie? Hold on tight! Game Rant's got the lowdown on how to spot those pesky counterfeit 'Lafufus' and make sure you're getting the real deal – from QR codes to tooth counts, it's a collector's treasure hunt.
Right, so you've been bitten by the collectible bug and now you're eyeing up a Labubu plushie – those adorably mischievous little monsters that everyone's suddenly obsessed with. But hold your horses, mate, because the counterfeiters are out in force, churning out 'Lafufus' that look suspiciously like the real deal. Game Rant's been digging into how to spot the fakes, and fair dinkum, it's a wilder ride than you'd think.
First off, a bit of backstory. Labubu sprang from the mind of Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung and his picture book series, *The Monsters*, which draws inspiration from Nordic myths. Originally produced by How2Work, Labubu's popularity exploded thanks to a collaboration with Pop Mart and, get this, an unofficial shout-out from a member of K-pop royalty (because of course it did!).
But with great popularity comes…well, a mountain of dodgy imitations. So how do you tell a real Labubu from a Lafufu that's just trying to scam its way into your collection? Game Rant reckons the easiest way is to hit those QR codes. You'll find them on the tag (usually attached to the plushie's left hip) and the box. Scan the QR code (assuming it’s not a blurry mess), and it *should* whisk you away to Pop Mart's official authentication site. Pop in the last four digits of the figure's code, and Bob's your uncle, you'll know if it's genuine... allegedly.
But what if the counterfeiters are getting smarter? What if the QR code is a clever fake? Don't despair! There are other telltale signs to look for.
* **Foot Fetish (the plushie kind):** Check the feet. They should be made of the same material as the face and be firmly attached. The left foot should have a clear, embossed Pop Mart logo. And if you're buying a model from 2024 onwards, the right foot should have a Labubu head logo that only shows up under UV light. Fancy, eh? * **Tooth Fairy Audit:** Count the teeth! A real Labubu always has nine. No more, no less. * **Fur Real?:** Give it a feel. The fur should be soft, not scratchy. * **Stitching Savvy:** Check the stitching around the head and those pointy ears. It should be neat and tidy, not like a toddler's sewing project. * **Face Facts:** The face should be a pale peach color with a matte finish. If it's shiny and orange, you've probably got a Lafufu.
Now, here's the kicker: even *real* Labubus can have production errors. Game Rant notes that the Big Into Energy Series, in particular, has been plagued by lopsided faces, especially on the blue Hope and green Serenity models. Bloody hell, even the legitimate ones are playing silly buggers with quality control!
So, there you have it. A wizard's guide to spotting fake Labubu plushies. Remember, collectors: stay vigilant, trust your gut, and don't be afraid to give that plushie a thorough once-over before handing over your hard-earned cash. Happy hunting!
Tags: collectibles, plushies, counterfeit, Labubu, toys
Original article: Game Rant