In the world of designer toys and quirky collectibles, few characters have generated as much buzz in recent years as Labubu and Lafufu. At first glance, these two cute—but often mischievous—figures may look like cousins from the same whimsical universe. And in many ways, they are. However, for collectors and enthusiasts wanting to dive deeper into the details, there are clear differences that set Labubu and Lafufu apart. From design and origin to character traits and cultural impact, it’s time to break down what really separates these two adorable oddballs.
TLDR (Too Long; Didn’t Read):
Labubu and Lafufu are both fantasy creatures from the POP MART and Kasing Lung universe, but they differ in aesthetics, personality, and origin. Labubu is wilder and more mischievous, with sharp teeth and a trickster nature, while Lafufu comes across as more gentle and plush-like. Their designs reflect these traits, making them appeal to slightly different audiences. Both are immensely popular in the world of designer art toys but serve distinctive roles in that quirky realm.
Who Are Labubu and Lafufu?
Before diving into their differences, let’s take a step back and look at where these characters come from. Both Labubu and Lafufu were created by renowned Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung and are produced by POP MART, a leading name in the world of collectible figurines.
Labubu is part of what Kasing Lung refers to as “the Monsters series”. These characters inhabit a surreal yet oddly relatable fantasy world. Labubu is arguably the most famous character among them, known for his big toothy grin and impish expressions.
On the other hand, Lafufu belongs to the same whimsical universe but represents a softer, almost plush-like side of the spectrum. She comes across as more nurturing and sweet, often depicted with rounder features and gentler colors.
Key Differences Between Labubu and Lafufu
When you line them up side by side, some clear differences become immediately apparent.
1. Appearance
- Labubu: Has a long, thin face with huge, mischievous eyes and sharp, jagged teeth. His ears are long and pointy, giving him an almost goblin-like quality. His fur is usually rendered in darker tones like grey, brown, and black.
- Lafufu: Boasts a rounder and plumper face with smaller features. Her eyes are more innocent and less menacing. The character is typically styled in soft pastel hues and is often surrounded by nature-themed accessories like flowers or leaves.
2. Personality
- Labubu: Embodies chaos and mischief. While not evil, Labubu enjoys stirring things up and surprises people with his tricks and antics. His expressions and poses almost always hint at something up his sleeve.
- Lafufu: Characterized by kindness and curiosity. She’s the figure that is more often shown helping forest creatures, exploring flowers, or gazing in wonder at the sky. Lafufu feels like a poetic soul in toy form.
3. Collectible Rarity
Both characters have several mini-series and blind box collections, but Labubu tends to have a broader selection with rarer editions that are highly prized in resale markets. Some limited editions of Labubu can reach hundreds of dollars online.
Lafufu, while also collectible, often appeals more to newcomers due to her more accessible and inviting design. Her editions are usually produced in slightly larger runs, making them somewhat easier to find—though this can vary with seasonal or collaborative series.
Design Evolution Over Time
Another interesting way to distinguish Labubu and Lafufu is through how their designs have evolved across different collections.
Labubu was introduced earlier and has been through various iterations—pirate Labubu, forest Labubu, winter Labubu, and even collaborations with famous IPs like SpongeBob SquarePants. These forms often push the boundaries of design, integrating unique materials, poses, and intricate details.
Lafufu, though newer, is slowly building her library of looks. Her themes often include a romantic or natural twist, such as “Spring Garden Lafufu” or “Harvest Time Lafufu.” While not as wildly experimental as Labubu, Lafufu’s styling grows steadily, focusing on refinement rather than reinvention.
Image not found in postmetaFan Base and Cultural Impact
The fandom surrounding these characters also tells part of the story. Labubu fans tend to lean into the character’s rebellious spirit. Social media is filled with photos of edgy Labubu setups, stories, and even fan fiction that emphasize his naughty personality. There are entire communities dedicated to tracking rare releases and display ideas that bring Labubu’s chaotic energy to life.
In contrast, Lafufu fans create content that’s softer and often more art-focused. You’ll find gentle dioramas, poetry captions, and scrapbooking pages devoted to Lafufu’s adventures. Her fans are interested in the calm and creative side of the collectible world.
Interestingly, there’s also some crossover, as collectors often purchase both characters to complete their sets or tell richer stories through multiple figures. But the tone and storylines in how they’re used are typically quite different.
Which One Should You Choose?
The answer depends on what you’re looking for in a collectible figure. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
- If you love mystery, mischief, and intricate storytelling art: Go for Labubu. He’s an iconic figure with lots of rare designs and tons of creative potential.
- If you’re more into tranquil scenes, nature, or gentle characters: Lafufu is your best match. Her soothing aesthetic makes her a favorite for peaceful displays and calming energy.
Budget Tip:
If you’re new to collecting, starting with Lafufu may be more cost-effective. However, Labubu’s long-standing popularity means that some of his common series are also well-priced—especially if you shop smart or trade with fellow collectors.
Conclusion
It’s clear that while Labubu and Lafufu may share a universe, they occupy very different emotional and aesthetic spaces. Labubu is the unpredictable spark that keeps things exciting, while Lafufu is the comforting glow that makes the world feel warmer. Both are spectacular creations by Kasing Lung, and neither overshadows the other—they simply offer different kinds of magic.
Whether you’re building your first POP MART display shelf, hunting for that ultra-rare figure, or simply appreciating the art form, knowing the difference between these two characters can help you dive deeper into a fascinating universe of design, storytelling, and fandom.
So the next time you see those funny faces peeking out of a blind box, ask yourself—are you team Labubu or team Lafufu?
