A factory mistake turned a “crying horse” toy into a viral hit in China, as consumers embraced its imperfect but relatable expression and drove unexpected demand.
A small manufacturing error has unexpectedly created one of China’s most popular toys this season, after a horse plush with a reversed mouth went viral online and attracted strong consumer demand.
The toy was originally designed as a smiling mascot for the Year of the Horse in the Chinese zodiac. However, one version appeared to be “crying” instead, giving it a sad and helpless expression. What initially seemed to be a defect soon became the toy’s defining feature.
From Quality Issue to Online Sensation
The story began when a buyer shared photos of the toy online, joking that the smiling horse had turned into a crying one. The buyer planned to report the mistake to the seller. Instead, the post drew widespread attention.
Many users found the toy cute and relatable. Some even asked where they could buy the same version. As the images spread across Chinese social media, the “crying horse” quickly became a trending topic.
Made in Yiwu, Orders Surge
Local media later reported that the toy was produced in Yiwu, a city in eastern China known for its small commodities industry.
A shop owner at Yiwu International Trade City confirmed that the reversed mouth was caused by a simple production oversight. Still, the unexpected popularity brought a surge in orders. To keep up with demand, the factory opened more than ten production lines.
On several Chinese e-commerce platforms, the “crying horse” has now become a featured product. Some sellers report limited stock, while others offer it through short pre-orders. Despite its popularity, sellers say prices have not increased.
Why the “Crying Horse” Resonates
Many consumers say the toy’s sad expression feels honest and comforting. Online, people describe it as a “hidden edition” created by accident. Others see it as a reminder that setbacks can sometimes lead to unexpected rewards.
In the end, the “crying horse” shows how internet culture can quickly reshape consumer preferences. A simple mistake, once seen as a flaw, has turned into a symbol of humour, emotional release, and unexpected success.
Written by Ronnie Yu.
If you liked this article, why not read: AI Toys and Original IP Push China’s Toy Industry Forward
