If you've spent any time in the Pop Mart or blind box collecting community, you've probably heard the term "Lafufu" — the nickname collectors use for counterfeit figures flooding marketplaces and social media. With officially licensed collectibles this popular, fakes were inevitable. Here's how to protect yourself.
1. Check the Packaging Details
Authentic Pop Mart blind boxes have crisp, high-resolution printing with consistent colors. Counterfeit packaging often has slightly blurry text, mismatched fonts, or colors that look a shade off from official product photos. Look closely at the barcode and any QR codes — fakes frequently have codes that don't scan correctly or lead nowhere.
2. Look at the Figure's Paint and Finish
Genuine figures have clean, precise paint application with no bleed between colors. Counterfeits often show sloppy paint lines, visible mold seams that weren't cleaned up, or a duller, less vibrant plastic finish. If a figure looks slightly "off" compared to official photos, trust that instinct.
3. Weight and Material Feel Different
This one's harder to judge without the item in hand, but it's real: official Pop Mart figures use consistent, higher-grade PVC and ABS plastic. Counterfeits are frequently lighter, feel cheaper, or have a slightly different texture. If you've held an authentic figure before, a fake will often feel noticeably different.
4. Buy From Verified, Licensed Sources
The single best way to avoid counterfeits is sourcing. Official Pop Mart releases, authorized resellers, and licensed distributors are your safest bet. Be cautious of listings with prices that seem too good to be true — if a full blind box series is priced dramatically below the standard $18–$28 range, that's a red flag worth investigating before you buy.
5. Check for Licensing Language
Officially licensed products will clearly state their licensing on the packaging and in the product listing itself — things like the manufacturer name, series name, and release date. Vague or missing details are a warning sign.
Our Commitment
Every figure and plush we carry at PopPlayCo is sourced directly from official licensors and manufacturers. No reproductions, no unlicensed knockoffs — what you see in the listing is exactly what arrives at your door. If you ever have a question about the authenticity of an item before you buy, reach out to us any time.