‘Crying Horse’ Plush Becomes An Unlikely Lunar New Year Hit After Stitching Fail

A red plush horse meant to celebrate the Lunar New Year has unexpectedly become China’s most relatable mascot after a stitching mistake turned its smile into a dramatic frown. First spotted at Yiwu International Trade City, the “crying horse” quickly went viral as shoppers sought out the saddest versions they could find. Young workers embraced the toy as a symbol of burnout, seeing their own 996 exhaustion reflected in its tear‑like nostrils and defeated expression. Its rise fits into China’s growing “ugly‑cute” trend, where imperfect characters gain cult status. What began as a factory error is now an unlikely hit.