Why did the toy horse become popular in China?

The toy horse, accidentally produced with a frown instead of a smile, went viral on Chinese social media and became a symbol of corporate fatigue and worker burnout.

What is the '996 system' mentioned in relation to the toy?

The 996 system refers to employees working from 9am to 9pm, six days a week, a practice that, while outlawed in 2021, still contributes to long overtime hours common for many Chinese white-collar workers.

Where are wholesale orders for the 'crying horse' toy being placed?

Wholesale orders for the 'crying horse' toy have been placed from South Africa, East Asia, and the Middle East.

Home / Lifestyle / Frowning Horse Toy Goes Viral Amidst Worker Fatigue

Frowning Horse Toy Goes Viral Amidst Worker Fatigue

28 Jan

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Summary

A manufacturing error gave a toy horse a frown, not a smile.
The defective toy symbolizes corporate fatigue and worker burnout.
Orders for the 'crying horse' toy surged after social media virality.

Frowning Horse Toy Goes Viral Amidst Worker Fatigue

A plush horse toy, designed with a cheerful smile for the upcoming Year of the Horse, has become an unlikely icon of workplace exhaustion. A manufacturing defect at the Happy Sister factory in Yiwu resulted in the toy sporting a grimace instead of a grin, with its upside-down smile resembling tears. This 'crying horse' has gone viral on Chinese social media, capturing the feelings of many white-collar workers struggling with demanding schedules.

The toy's popularity taps into a broader cultural acceptance of 'ugly-cute' aesthetics and serves as an outlet for discussing work pressure. Buyers relate to the toy's sad appearance, seeing it as a reflection of their own feelings during long work hours, particularly in the context of the notorious 996 system. The demand has been so high that the factory is increasing production lines.

Wholesale orders for the unique toy have also emerged from South Africa, East Asia, and the Middle East. Its image is anticipated to expand onto new merchandise lines. The factory owner, Zhang Huoqing, decided to award bonuses to all staff upon learning of the defect, as the exact cause of the sewing error could not be determined.