The recent migration of TikTok creators from the United States, amid concerns over a potential ban on the app, has ignited a wave of cross-cultural conversations on Xiaohongshu, a Chinese social media platform known as RedNote. These “TikTok refugees” have found a new home on Xiaohongshu, sharing their experiences and sparking discussions that challenge long-held stereotypes between Chinese and American netizens.
Users on both sides are engaging in “life audits,” comparing aspects such as salaries, housing costs, healthcare expenses, and education. The contrasts revealed in these exchanges are shedding light on the realities of everyday life in both countries, often surprising participants and readers alike.
American netizens frequently share their struggles with the high cost of living, particularly in urban centers. One user lamented, “I just got a simple bill for a routine checkup, and it was over $500. I can’t imagine what a serious illness would cost! I feel like I’m constantly on the brink of financial ruin due to medical expenses.”
In contrast, Chinese users highlight the affordability of goods and services in China, especially outside major cities. A Chinese netizen commented, “I can buy a decent apartment in my hometown for the price of a parking space in San Francisco. It’s crazy how different our living experiences are.” These disparities are prompting discussions on factors such as government policies, economic development, and cultural differences that influence these costs.
Beyond economic comparisons, the exchanges are offering fascinating cultural insights. Chinese netizens express surprise at the global popularity of Chinese pop (C-pop) artists like Jackson Wang and Lay Zhang, and how they are contributing to the worldwide rise of Korean pop (K-pop). This has led to discussions about the globalization of music and the growing influence of Asian culture on global pop culture.
Meanwhile, American users are intrigued by the enduring appeal of classic rock bands like The Beatles and Rolling Stones, noting how these groups continue to influence contemporary music. This has sparked debates about preserving musical heritage and the evolution of genres across generations.
These cross-cultural dialogues on Xiaohongshu are breaking down stereotypes and fostering mutual understanding. By sharing personal experiences and perspectives, netizens from China and the United States are discovering common ground and appreciating the nuances of each other’s cultures. As one user aptly put it, “These conversations are eye-opening. It’s amazing how much we can learn from each other when we look beyond the stereotypes.”
Reference(s):
Life 'audits' on Xiaohongshu demolish cross-cultural stereotypes
cgtn.com
