Trendsetters are being cautioned to be vigilant against counterfeit Labubus, as scammers attempt to exploit the accessory’s growing popularity. NSW Fair Trading issued a warning on its Facebook page, highlighting the presence of fake “Lafufus” online. The agency advised consumers that while Labubu toys are highly sought after, unscrupulous online sellers are misleading shoppers with imitations or failing to deliver products altogether.
In their advisory post, NSW Fair Trading provided tips for identifying counterfeit Lafufus. Markers include packaging that is glossy instead of matte, discrepancies in the number of teeth—Labubus typically feature nine sharp teeth, while Lafufus may have fewer or more—and distinctively shaped ears that are positioned farther apart.
To safeguard their online purchases, shoppers are encouraged to buy only from reputable vendors, remain cautious about overseas retailers offering suspiciously low prices, and evaluate website reviews prior to making transactions. Authentic Labubus are available at Pop Mart, a Chinese collectible retailer that operates both physical and online stores.
The Labubu character was created in 2015 by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, initially introduced through illustrated books. Its rise to fame took off following a collaboration with Pop Mart in 2019, converting the character into a popular wearable accessory. The surge in Labubu’s visibility can be attributed to appearances by K-pop sensation Lisa from BLACKPINK, who showcased her Labubu, leading to a significant increase in its popularity.
As a result, Pop Mart has witnessed extraordinary growth, with its share value soaring over 150%, becoming one of the star performers on the MSC China Index. This retail entity now possesses a market valuation exceeding a staggering $60 billion, dwarfing the combined worth of giants such as Mattel, Hasbro, and Sanrio. The figures do not even account for the anticipated financial growth for the current year. Thus, consumers must remain cautious to avoid falling victim to counterfeit products and ensure they purchase genuine Labubus.