Where are they from?

Actually, some of the seemingly new emojis are no strangers to domestic online users. Because of their huge popularity and high usage rate on other social media platforms like Sina Weibo, Baidu Tieba and QQ zone, WeChat has introduced them with some changes in their appearance.

Reputed as one of the most popular emojis on Tieba, the "funny" emoji has received much attention since its release in 2013. [Photo/Weibo]

For example, the emoji "smirk" initially comes from "funny" , a made-in-China emoji exclusively used earlier on Baidu Tieba. In comparison with the hidden meanings of sarcasm in "funny", "smirk" means to smile in an affected or smug manner. Also, the eyebrows, eyes and mouths show subtle differences between "smirk" and "funny".

Also, the emoji "smart" stems from a series of self-made "ostentatious" emojis by Chinese netizens. Emojis, including "red envelope", "tea" and "candle", are borrowed from Sina Weibo, a Chinese version of Twitter.

The emoji "hey" comes from a funny and interesting character named Lu Xiaoyu in an online movie, The Peerless Master. The man coyly strikes a feminine pose to make others laugh.[Photo/Weibo]

From what you read here, you may think that WeChat just acts as a carrier this time. But you are wrong. The most popular emoji is the homemade "hey" emoji.

"This is an amazing emoji. After updating my WeChat, I cannot stop using it. When I am satisfied with something, I use it to express my happiness. When I am down, I just use it for self-depreciation," said Ma Shuyuan, a college student living in Beijing.

As a matter of fact, the emoji comes from a funny and interesting character named Lu Xiaoyu in an online movie, The Peerless Master. In the film, Lu follows his master and learns skills in the Kunlun Mountains in China. Powerful as he grows to be, he has an unusual reaction when he hears music: he dances with funny dance movements.

According to Lu Zhengyu, the director and actor who plays Lu Xiaoyu in the film, The Peerless Master takes advantage of the classic shooting method and picture showing often used in the 1980s to lead viewers back to the past.

"Many humorous elements draw lessons from past daily life, thus causing a strong sensation among movie fans," Lu added.

Because of the vivid and significant image of the leading role of Lu Xiaoyu in online culture, one of these classic yet charming movements are chosen to be the origin of "hey" emoji.