Fake Labubu Craze: TikTok Trend Fuels Counterfeit Toy Crisis

On the surface, Labubu dolls—those quirky, wide-eyed plush collectibles from Pop Mart—might seem like harmless fun. With TikTok driving their explosive popularity, these creatures have become must-haves for collectors, both young and seasoned.

But behind the cute exteriors lies a growing problem: counterfeit Labubus are now everywhere. From London warehouses to online resale platforms, fakes are infiltrating the market fast—some even falling apart in kids’ mouths. As authorities crack down, collectors are learning the hard way that this trend comes with real risks.

Whether you’re a lifelong toy collector or a Gen-Z newbie chasing TikTok Labubu drops, knowing how to spot a fake could save you money—and much worse.

How Can You Tell If Labubu Is Real or Fake? TikTok Labubu Buyers Beware

In the world of collecting, TikTok Labubu drops have become the digital equivalent of a gold rush. Pop Mart’s plush characters often sell out in mere seconds during livestreams, and that scarcity has opened the floodgates to a flood of counterfeits. But how can you tell if Labubu is real or fake?

Experts say start with the basics: authentic Labubus feel weighty and well-made, with Pop Mart’s branding clearly marked on the tags and packaging. In contrast, fakes—often nicknamed “Lafufu” online—tend to have flimsy stitching, lighter material, and cheap packaging.

Scammers often exploit TikTok hype, using livestream footage or AI-generated listings to pass off knock-offs as the real deal. Resellers may even use bots to bulk-buy legitimate stock, making it even harder for regular buyers to score one. Always double-check sellers, ask for proof of purchase, and avoid deals that seem too good to be true.

Inside the UK’s Fake Labubu Crackdown

In one of the largest counterfeit toy busts of the year, UK authorities uncovered a massive stash of fake Labubu dolls in an industrial estate near London. Hidden behind the facade of a retail outlet, investigators found rooms stacked floor to ceiling with fakes—many containing small parts that posed severe choking hazards.

Trading Standards teams traced the operation back to a corner shop in Swansea, where suspicious dolls were first spotted. Rhys Harries, one of the lead officers, described dolls whose heads, eyes, and limbs literally fell off during handling. “These parts can get lodged in a child’s throat. It’s not just illegal—it’s dangerous,” he warned.

The Intellectual Property Office has confirmed that many of these knock-offs originate from China, Hong Kong, and Turkey. Counterfeiters are now targeting trends in real time, using toxic materials to quickly flood the market—often bypassing safety standards entirely.

The Real Danger Behind Fake Labubu Toys

At first glance, fake Labubu dolls may look like the real deal—but don’t be fooled. These knock-offs often pose serious health and safety risks, especially for younger collectors. Missing limbs, loose eyes, and poorly attached parts aren’t just disappointing—they’re dangerous. In one reported case, a keyring broke off in a child’s mouth, narrowly avoiding disaster.

So, how can you tell if Labubu is real or fake? Experts say it comes down to details: real Labubus have sturdy stitching, Pop Mart-branded tags, and high-quality packaging. Fakes, on the other hand, feel lighter, fall apart quickly, and often have misspelled logos or sloppy designs.

Authorities warn that some fake Labubu dolls may even contain banned chemicals linked to long-term health risks. For collectors—especially Gen-Z just entering the hobby—this isn’t just a question of authenticity. It’s a matter of safety.

What Gen-Z Collectors Need to Know Now

TikTok has fueled an entire generation’s love affair with Labubu—but that popularity comes with pitfalls. Collectors like Meg Goldberger, who owns more than 250 Jellycats and 12 Labubus, say scoring an authentic Labubu now feels like trying to win concert tickets. “They sell out in like two seconds,” she said. “It’s wild.”

Bots and resellers dominate the market. Some eBay sellers are shown placing 200+ orders during TikTok Labubu drops, leaving genuine fans empty-handed. For younger Gen-Z collectors, the temptation to buy secondhand—often unknowingly purchasing fakes—is all too real.

So here’s the deal: if you’re diving into the world of designer plush, do your homework. Follow verified TikTok creators, shop only through trusted sources like Pop Mart’s official site or stores, and don’t fall for shady deals. Collecting should be hype—but never hazardous.