Some of the fake Labubu dolls sezied in Weston-super-Mare. Picture: North Somerset Council

Hundreds of fake Labubu dolls seized from Somerset businesses

Paul JonesAugust 12, 20250 Comment0

HUNDREDS of “fake and potentially dangerous” Labubu dolls and merchandise were seized in Weston-super-Mare after parents expressed fears over their safety.

More than 600 of the elf-like Labubu dolls – which have become sought after being the subject of an internet craze – were seized by North Somerset Council’s Trading Standards team. Investigations confirmed the dolls were counterfeit and posed a choking hazard to children.

The trading standards team said their popularity has created an “opportunity for imitation products to flood the market, many of which fail to meet essential safety standards”.

THe fake Labubu dolls were seized from premises in Weston-super-Mare, Somerset. Picture: NSC

Councillor James Clayton, cabinet member for safety in the community at North Somerset Council, said: “Counterfeit toys are not just illegal – they can be dangerous. These dolls were found to have small parts that could easily detach, posing a serious risk to children.

“We urge consumers to be cautious when buying toys from unfamiliar or unverified sellers.”

He said counterfeit goods often bypass safety and quality checks, infringe intellectual property rights, and undermine legitimate businesses, putting buyers at risk.

“We are committed to protecting residents in our communities – especially children – from unsafe products. I encourage anyone who suspects that a product may be unsafe or counterfeit to report it immediately,” Cllr Clayton added.

Anyone who suspects the selling of counterfeit goods should report concerns to the Citizen’s Advice consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133, or online via www.citizensadvice.org.uk.

The Labubu character was created by Hong Kong-based illustrator Kasing Lung, and the toys are produced and sold by China-based retailer, Pop Mart.

The dolls – which are sold in mystery packages, so buyer are unsure which they are getting – have become a collecting craze, with figures often issued as a ‘limited’ or ‘special’ edition, making them prized and hard to come by.