What was meant to be a lucky start to the Lunar New Year quickly turned into an embarrassing prank for one employee in China.
A man known online as Jiang Jiang said he was thrilled after being announced as the grand prize winner at his company’s year-end party. The top reward? An iPhone 17 Pro Max, reportedly worth 9,988 yuan (around $1,450).
The event, held ahead of Lunar New Year celebrations on February 17, appeared completely legitimate. According to Jiang, the prize came in an authentic-looking iPhone box, complete with a branded shopping bag and a printed invoice showing the price. The company’s head even announced the model and its value during the party, leaving everyone convinced he had won the latest Apple device.
The Big Reveal at Home
Rather than opening the prize immediately, Jiang decided to wait until he got home so he could surprise his wife.
But when he finally opened the box, the excitement vanished.
Inside were two chocolates, three lollipops and several ceramic tiles — no phone in sight.
Jiang later shared a video online documenting the moment, describing the experience as an emotional roller coaster. He said he initially thought he was the party’s biggest winner, only to realize he had become the butt of a joke.
“An April Fools’ Day Event”
According to Jiang, the hospital where he works had not actually approved the purchase of an iPhone. He claimed the stunt was simply a prank thought up by his team manager.
The second prize at the event wasn’t much better — reportedly just a pillow.
“I expected the year of 2026 to have a lucky beginning, and they turned the year-end party into an April Fools’ Day event for me,” Jiang said.
While he clarified that he did not necessarily need the phone, he said he felt insulted and demanded a public apology from the person responsible.
Social Media Reacts
After Jiang shared his story online, many social media users expressed sympathy.
Some commenters said their own company year-end prizes were equally disappointing. One person claimed their company’s grand prize was a one-on-one meeting with the boss, while others said prizes included getting a photo taken with their employer or receiving their autograph.
“A year-end party should be an occasion to celebrate the staff’s hard work, instead of kissing the boss’s behind,” one commenter wrote.
“These prizes only show that the companies disrespect their employees and are poor,” another added.
What was supposed to be a festive celebration to reward staff ended up sparking online debate about workplace respect and corporate culture — all because of a box filled with tiles.
