How to Tell If a Labubu Box Is Real: A Complete Authentication Guide

Labubu, the wildly popular collectible figures from POP MART, have become a prime target for counterfeiters. Whether you're buying blind boxes online or picking up a pre-owned set, knowing how to spot a fake Labubu can save you money—and heartache.

Here's everything you need to verify your Labubu is the real deal.

1. Scan the QR Code (Most Reliable)

The most dependable authentication method is the official QR code check. Authentic Labubu boxes feature a QR code on the packaging or the toy's wash tag that links directly to POP MART's verification system.

How to check:

• Scan the QR code using your phone's camera
• It should direct you to m-gss.popmart.com
• If it says "Authentic Product" — you're good to go
• If it redirects elsewhere or shows an error — be cautious

Step 3: Analyze the Scan Result Message – The Key to Authenticity

After confirming the website is official, carefully read the message displayed. POP MART's system typically shows one of three scenarios:

• "First Scan" or "Activated Successfully": Congratulations! This means the QR code has never been scanned before and is officially recognized as a new, authentic product.
• "Scanned Multiple Times" or "Already Scanned": This is a cause for caution. The code has been scanned by other users before you. This could mean a legitimate second-hand purchase — or that the QR code was copied from a genuine product and applied to a counterfeit one. "Recycled" authentic boxes with fake figures inside are also a possibility. Further investigate your purchase source.
• "Exceeded Scan Limit": Be highly suspicious. This suggests the QR code has been scanned an unusually high number of times — a strong indicator of mass-produced fake tags distributed on many counterfeit figures.

Bottom line: The mere presence of a QR code means nothing. What matters is where it leads and what the scan result says.

Read more: Does a Fake Labubu Have a QR Code? →

Red flag: Some counterfeiters copy real QR codes, so even if a code scans, check that it leads to the official POP MART page. A URL like popmart-verify.com is a scam.

2. Check the Box & Packaging

Authentic Labubu boxes have distinct characteristics:

• Matte finish — not glossy
• Sharp printing with crisp Pop Mart logo
• Silver-black foil inner bag
• Clean, legible text with no typos like "Pob Mart" or "Labubu" spelled wrong
• Recycle icon on the box has rounded arrow corners (fakes often use squared ones)

Fake signs: Dull colors, blurry artwork, thin or flimsy cardstock, missing foil lining inside.

3. Inspect the Figure

If you've already opened the box, examine the doll itself:

• Teeth: Real Labubus always have exactly 9 evenly spaced teeth aligned with the smile. Fakes often have fewer or uneven teeth.
• Paint quality: Authentic Labubus have soft, airbrushed blush and clean eye details. Fakes look shiny with harsh blush circles and sloppy paint.
• Left foot stamp: Look for the "Pop Mart" logo printed or embossed on the left foot.
• UV stamp (2024+): Many newer Labubus include a hidden UV-sensitive silhouette on the right foot — visible only under black light.
• Material: Genuine Labubus feel smooth, flexible, and substantial. Fakes feel light, hollow, or chemically scented.

4. Verify the Price

Price is one of the easiest red flags:

• Authentic blind box: $23–$27 USD
• Rare or limited Labubu: $30–$300+
• Display box (12 pcs): $100–$150
• If you see new, sealed Labubu for $5–$10 — it's almost certainly counterfeit

5. Buy from Trusted Sources

Safe places to buy:

• POP MART official website and app
• Amazon (POP MART official store)
• Physical POP MART stores
• Verified retailers like StockX, eBay with high ratings

Avoid: AliExpress, Temu, TikTok Live sellers, Facebook Marketplace listings, and any shop with "Labubu-style" or "inspired" in the title.

Quick Checklist: Real vs. Fake

Box: Real = matte, sharp printing | Fake = glossy, blurry

QR Code: Real = links to m-gss.popmart.com | Fake = dead link or wrong site

Teeth: Real = 9 perfectly spaced | Fake = uneven or missing

Foot Stamp: Real = Pop Mart logo + UV mark | Fake = missing or sloppy

Price: Real = $23+ | Fake = under $15

The Bottom Line

No single feature guarantees authenticity — counterfeiters are getting more sophisticated. But by checking the QR code, examining the box and figure details, and buying from official or verified sources, you can shop with confidence.

When in doubt, ask for the seller's POP MART order confirmation or App screenshot.