Draco Malfoy: Unexpected Lunar New Year Icon in China

Draco Malfoy has emerged as an unexpected Lunar New Year icon in China, with fans adopting the character for the Year of the Horse.

The 'Horse Fortune' Connection

The character's name in Mandarin, "mǎ ěr fú", significantly contributes to this phenomenon. The first character, "mǎ", means "horse", and the final character, "fú", signifies "fortune" or "blessing".

This combination allows Malfoy's name to be interpreted as "horse fortune", positioning him as an auspicious figure for the new year.

Widespread Cultural Phenomenon

This unique wordplay has generated widespread memes, fan art, decorations, and themed merchandise across Chinese social media platforms. Images of Tom Felton, the actor who portrayed Malfoy, are prominently featured on Lunar New Year posters. These depictions often show him smiling or riding cartoon horses in various public and private spaces.

Tom Felton himself acknowledged the trend. He reposted a photo on Instagram showcasing his face on a red banner in a Chinese shopping mall. The banner included Mandarin characters which translate to:

"Magical awakening that attracts abundant wealth."

Harry Potter's Enduring Popularity and Future Plans

This surge in Malfoy's popularity comes as millions in China prepare for the Lunar New Year. The Harry Potter book series has demonstrated immense success in the region, selling approximately 200 million copies in China since its introduction in 2000.

Further solidifying the franchise's presence, Warner Bros. Discovery announced plans last year for a new Harry Potter studio tour in Shanghai. Slated to open in 2027, this 53,000-square-meter facility will be larger than the franchise's existing studio tours in London and Tokyo, marking it as the first of its kind in China.