As the Lunar New Year approaches, a surprising figure has emerged as a symbol of good fortune in China: Draco Malfoy, the iconic antagonist from the Harry Potter series. This unexpected mascot reflects a unique cultural twist, as the name “Malfoy” translates to “Ma Er Fu” in Mandarin, where “Ma” means “horse” (马) and “Fu” represents good fortune (福). When combined, the name suggests that horses are bringing luck, aligning perfectly with the upcoming Year of the Horse, which begins on February 17, 2024.
In the lead-up to the Lunar New Year, festive decorations featuring Malfoy are becoming a common sight in homes and public spaces. Videos circulating on Chinese social media showcase individuals adorning their residences with traditional red posters, known as fai chun or chunlian, which typically carry well-wishing phrases. This year, alongside the usual messages of health and prosperity, one can spot the trademark smirk of Malfoy, adding a playful twist to the celebrations.
The Harry Potter franchise has enjoyed immense popularity in China, with nearly 10 million translated copies sold prior to the release of the final book in 2007, according to the Chinese publisher’s statements reported by state broadcaster CCTV. The franchise’s cinematic offerings have also seen success; the re-mastered version of the first film grossed $27.6 million at the Chinese box office in 2020, as noted by state news agency Xinhua.
Tom Felton, who portrayed Malfoy in the film series from 2001 to 2011, recently acknowledged this surprising cultural crossover. He shared an image on his Instagram account featuring a large banner with Malfoy in his wizard attire, prominently displayed in a shopping mall atrium in China. The character’s newfound fame is also evident on social media platforms such as Douyin, where a clip showed a user placing a Malfoy-themed fai chun on their refrigerator. This video attracted over 60,000 likes, prompting comments like, “You’re a genius,” highlighting the character’s unexpected charm.
Commercial opportunities have arisen amidst this trend, with some entrepreneurial individuals selling Malfoy-themed posters on various Chinese e-commerce platforms. One user on Pinduoduo remarked, “The fu has arrived,” adding, “Bring me some fortune in 2026, young master,” illustrating how this Harry Potter villain has morphed into a figure of fortune for the approaching year.
This playful adaptation of a beloved literary character underscores the cultural blending that often accompanies global phenomena. As families prepare for the Lunar New Year, the inclusion of Draco Malfoy in their celebrations reflects not only a deep appreciation for the Harry Potter series but also the creative ways in which traditional customs can evolve. The Year of the Horse is set to begin with an unexpected twist, as the wizarding world continues to cast its spell across cultures.
