How to Identify Authentic Labubu & The Monsters Figures: A Visual Checklist

Quick Answer

To identify authentic Labubu figures, focus on packaging quality, paint application, material feel, and the presence of official logos and serial numbers. Always purchase from authorized retailers like RI-SON Collectibles to guarantee authenticity. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.

The popularity of Labubu and The Monsters has made these figures a prime target for counterfeiters. Fake Labubu figures can look convincing at first glance, but they often have subtle flaws in paint, material, and packaging. Knowing what to check can save you money and disappointment.

This guide provides a visual checklist you can use in-store or when receiving a shipped order. We'll cover the key areas where authentic figures differ from fakes, and we'll point you to reliable sources for genuine products.

Check the Packaging

Authentic Labubu blind boxes have crisp, vibrant printing with no smudging or misalignment. The cardboard is sturdy and the cellophane wrap is tight and even. Counterfeit packaging often has dull colors, blurry text, or a flimsy feel.

Look for the official POP MART logo and any holographic stickers or seals. Many authentic boxes include a unique code or QR that can be verified on the POP MART app. If the code is missing or doesn't scan, it's a red flag.

• Compare the box art to official images online; even small differences matter.

Examine Paint and Finish

Authentic figures have clean, precise paint lines with no overspray or bleeding. Colors are vibrant and consistent. Fakes often have sloppy edges, uneven gloss, or a tacky feel to the paint.

Check the eyes and facial details closely—these are the hardest to replicate. Authentic Labubu figures have sharp, expressive features. Counterfeits may have dull or misaligned eyes, and the overall finish can look plasticky.

• Use a magnifying glass or the macro mode on your phone camera to inspect fine details.

Feel the Material and Weight

Authentic Labubu figures are made from high-quality PVC or vinyl that feels smooth and dense. Fakes may feel lighter, hollow, or have a rough texture. The weight of the figure can be a giveaway, as counterfeits often use cheaper materials.

Gently press the figure—authentic parts fit together tightly with no wobble. Loose joints or visible seams indicate poor manufacturing. Also, check for a strong chemical smell, which is common in counterfeit products.

• If you're buying in person, compare the weight to a known authentic figure if possible.

Verify Serial Numbers and Certificates

Many authentic Labubu figures, especially special editions, come with a serial number or an authenticity card. These are often missing or poorly printed on fakes. Scan any QR codes and check them against official databases.

For higher-end pieces like the 10th Anniversary Series, the packaging may include additional authentication features. If a seller can't provide proof of authenticity, it's safer to walk away.

• Keep your proof of purchase and any certificates in a safe place for future reference.

Your Authentication Decision Rules

• Packaging Quality: Authentic boxes have sharp printing, sturdy cardboard, and tight wrap. Fakes often have blurry text or flimsy material. If packaging looks off, reject it.
• Paint Precision: Check for clean lines, vibrant colors, and sharp details. Overspray or dull finish indicates a fake. Inspect eyes and facial features closely.
• Material and Weight: Authentic figures feel dense and smooth. Fakes may be lighter, hollow, or have a chemical smell. Trust your hands and nose.
• Serial and Certificates: Look for serial numbers, QR codes, or authenticity cards. Verify them officially if possible. No proof, no purchase.
• Source Reliability: Buy from authorized retailers like RI-SON Collectibles. Avoid third-party marketplaces with limited return policies. A trusted source is your best defense.

Authentic Product Examples

• THE MONSTERS 10th Anniversary Series Figures: Celebrate a decade of playful chaos with THE MONSTERS 10th Anniversary Series Figures from POP MART — a commemorative blind box collection honoring 10 years of the beloved The Monsters (Labubu) universe. This series brings together iconic duo characters in dynamic designs that capture the mischievous spirit and imaginative flair fans cherish. Each sealed blind box contains one random figure from the anniversary... This official anniversary set is highly sought after, making it a common target for counterfeits. Buying from authorized retailers ensures you get the genuine commemorative figures with the correct packaging and paint quality.
• 2025 Topps Chrome® Labubu The Monsters 10th Anniversary Cards: The 2025 Topps Chrome® Labubu The Monsters 10th Anniversary Box marks a historic collaboration between Topps, How2Work, and POP MART, celebrating 10 years of the iconic Labubu universe created by renowned artist Kasing Lung. This special release blends premium trading card craftsmanship with designer toy culture, making it a must-have for collectors of art toys and Chrome® cards alike. Each box contains four Topps... Trading cards are easier to fake than figures, and this collaboration is a prime counterfeit target. Authentic cards have specific foil finishes and serial numbers that are hard to replicate, so buying from a trusted source is essential.

Who Should Use This Checklist

Best for

• New collectors who are buying their first Labubu figure and want to avoid scams.
• Experienced collectors adding high-value or anniversary pieces to their collection.

Not for

• Buyers who only purchase from official POP MART stores and never use resale platforms.
• Those looking for a quick price comparison rather than a deep authentication process.

Use this visual checklist every time you buy a Labubu figure, whether it's a blind box or a special edition. The few minutes you spend checking packaging, paint, and materials can save you from a costly mistake. And remember, buying from trusted retailers like RI-SON Collectibles is the simplest way to guarantee you're getting the real thing.