A couple from Yancheng, Jiangsu Province, China, found themselves at the center of curiosity and speculation after the birth of their daughter Guojiang, who, over time, developed blonde hair and bright blue eyes, characteristics not typically associated with East Asian ancestry.
Born in May 2022, Guojiang initially resembled a typical Chinese newborn. However, around eight months old, his eye color gradually changed to blue, and by his first birthday, his hair became noticeably curly and golden blonde, with long eyelashes and increasingly Western features.
Surprised by their daughter’s appearance, her parents initially wondered if there had been a mix-up at the hospital. However, numerous DNA tests have confirmed that Guojiang is indeed their biological son.
After delving into their family history, they discovered a surprising connection: Guojiang’s great-great-grandfather was Russian, who had settled in China after marrying a woman from Henan province. He died in 1985, but his recessive genes remained dormant, until now.
Guojiang’s father, Mr. Yang, explained that foreign traits never appeared in the male members of the family, including himself and his father. “Those recessive genes must have been hidden in our male line and expressed only in my daughter,” he said.
As Guojiang grows, its unique appearance attracts public attention. Mr Yang said: “People often ask her if she is a foreigner. Sometimes it gets tiring having to explain everything to strangers.” However, he recognizes the appeal and even revealed that the family has a distant relative currently living in Serbia.
Guojiang’s mother is not fazed by the public’s curiosity. “Genes express themselves randomly,” he said. “All I care about is that she grows up healthy and happy.”
Now in kindergarten, Guojiang speaks fluent Mandarin and continues to be the subject of interest both offline and on Chinese social media, where netizens are fascinated by her unique beauty.
“What a beautiful and adorable girl! Her family genetics are amazing,” one user wrote. Another joked: “Thank God for DNA tests, otherwise this could have turned into drama!”
As society becomes increasingly globalized and mixed ancestry becomes more common, Guojiang’s story reminds us how deeply hidden traits can unexpectedly resurface, sparking wonder, conversations about identity, and a celebration of genetic diversity.
Sources: Znews
