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What is Lafufu?

"Lafufu" is a meme that originated on overseas social media platforms, primarily related to PopMart's popular IP toy "Labubu." It's not an official product, but rather a playful term fans use to refer to fake or counterfeit Labubu dolls, carrying a sense of parody and mockery. Here's a detailed explanation of this meme:

1. Origin and Meaning:

  • "Lafufu" is a word evolved from "Labubu," used by overseas fans to refer to counterfeit Labubu dolls, where the "f" is believed to represent "fake."
  • It's jokingly called Labubu's "Ugly Step-Sister" because these knockoffs typically have poor quality, rough appearance, strange colors, or missing details, but have unexpectedly gained popularity due to their "ugly-cute" or comedic appearance.
  • The term first became popular on platforms like YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and Reddit, particularly in content discussing "How to tell a Labubu from a Lafufu?" where creators attracted massive traffic by showcasing Lafufu's hilarious flaws.

2. Meme Spread and Cultural Phenomenon:

  • In Western markets, Lafufu is not only seen as cheap knockoffs but has gradually formed its own subculture. Some collectors find Lafufu's "imperfection" charming, even viewing them as desktop mascots or the "underdog" of the toy world, launching "Lafufu rescue missions" to collect and customize these knockoffs.
  • On TikTok, Lafufu has sparked viral "ugly contests" due to its exaggerated, parodic appearance, with search popularity even surpassing some official IPs (like ZIMOMO). This phenomenon reflects some consumers' "shameless" attitude toward fakes, even viewing it as "smart consumption" or a symbol of rebellious subculture.
  • In contrast, domestic users tend to avoid actively purchasing fakes, more often passively receiving counterfeit goods, and the fake industry chain (such as forged authenticity stickers and receipts) makes identification more difficult.

3. Why It Became a Meme:

  • Humor and Self-mockery: The Lafufu meme lies in its "ugliness" being amplified as an entertainment element, with fans creating comedy through roasting its rough appearance and bizarre details (like asymmetrical eyes or crooked limbs).
  • Price-driven: Authentic Labubu dolls are expensive (often tens to hundreds of dollars), while Lafufu is cheap (sometimes only $10), attracting budget-conscious fans. Some even find Lafufu's "knockoff vibe" uniquely appealing.
  • Community Interaction: In Reddit's Labubu communities (like r/labubu) or on Snapchat, fans share their Lafufu purchases, discuss authenticity identification tips, or showcase custom-modified Lafufu, enhancing the meme's longevity.

4. How to Identify Lafufu:

  • Quality: Lafufu typically has obvious flaws like uneven fur, color deviations, loose limbs, etc. While authentic Labubu may also have quality control issues, details (like 9 teeth, UV sole markings) are more refined.
  • Packaging: Authentic ones come with PopMart branded boxes and scannable QR codes, while Lafufu often comes in crude plastic bags or counterfeit packaging.
  • Price: Prices that are too low (far below $50) are usually a sign of Lafufu.
  • Purchase Channels: Platforms like AliExpress, eBay, and Temu have more fakes, requiring careful seller selection.

5. Summary:

"Lafufu" as a meme is both a mockery of Labubu knockoffs and overseas fans' playful acceptance of counterfeit culture. Through "ugly-cute" aesthetics, viral spread, and subcultural community promotion, it has evolved from a simple fake label into an entertaining and rebellious internet phenomenon. If you see someone on TikTok showing off their "ugly contest" Lafufu, or someone on Reddit sharing their "Lafufu rescue story," that's a typical manifestation of this meme.