Labubu is one of the characters in a character collectible, blind box series that the Chinese brand, Pop Mart, released in 2019. Since then, it has become a prized collection of collectors worldwide. Labubu’s original design, colorful aesthetics, and creativity quickly propelled its international popularity. Each of these trends has made collectibles a hot market ripe with potential storied originals and imitation knockxies. Of all the knock-off products Tysheema has produced, Lafufu is perhaps the most significant counterfeit product to emerge from Labubu’s stardom.
As the demand for Labubu collectibles has skyrocketed, counterfeiters have been quick to follow that new hotness. Lafufu has spread like wildfire, sometimes sold by street vendors and across social media outlets such as Facebook. Some sellers may attempt to deceive buyers by selling Lafufu as authentic Labubu merchandise. Then they exploit the lack of access to genuine geniuses to further increase their profits.
Distinguishing Features of Labubu
Real Collectors have to be informed about the features that make real Labubu different from Lafufu. Perhaps the most impressive thing is the stitching quality.
“Our figures are renowned for their clean sculpting and meticulous paint application,” said a representative from Pop Mart.
Authentic Labubu figures have been handcrafted to a high level of quality, each with nine perfectly carved teeth and uniformly smooth edges. Lafufu typically has more inconsistent stitch quality. Savvy collectors soon recognize the serrated sides from a mile away.
Interestingly, collectors noted that in some cases, imperfections in Lafufu can be quite funny. These defects can’t compare to the elegance of real Labubu items. Fans have grown quite cynical over the years. Some confess to loving the beauty of these blunders, while others yearn for the rustic feel and character that only Labubu can offer.
The Appeal of Collecting
The recent wave of popularity for Labubu collectibles has resulted in a passionate community of collectors. It’s legitimate to worry that many more people would be attracted to the thrill of procuring a rare item.
“It’s just a little bit of a high, like, trying to like get yourself in a position where you can get that exclusive thing that everybody wants,” shared collector Ensito.
The nexus between popular culture and collectible items has just gotten stronger, particularly once celebrities have plugged these goods.
“And let’s face it, when [Blackpink’s] Lisa wore them on her purse, obviously all of us were like, ‘What?! Lisa’s wearing them?!’ Like, why not?” Ensito added.
For most collectors, the magic is in the miniatures. They’re aware of how these pieces can play up the most important part of their look—their own personal style.
“I collect designer bags as well. So for me, it was kind of like, ‘What can I put on my bag to be, like, really cute and trendy?’” Ensito explained.
Protecting Against Counterfeits
As counterfeit product continues to inundate the market, Pop Mart is dedicated to ensuring that true collectors can protect themselves. To guarantee their items are authentic, the company vehemently pushes fans to buy directly from Pop Mart, and through exclusive retail partners.
“We encourage fans to shop directly from Pop Mart and official retail partners to guarantee safety and product authenticity,” a Pop Mart representative stated.
The eternal war with counterfeiting is a problem for any character line—as seen with Labubu, SKULLPANDA and the seasonal drops. As the new collectible market continues to develop, it’s crucial for consumers to stay on guard and be well-informed.
