As the United States considers an imminent ban on TikTok starting Sunday, a wave of American TikTok creators is migrating to Xiaohongshu, the Chinese social media platform also known as RedNote. This movement has ignited a surge of cross-cultural comparisons and conversations between Chinese and American netizens.
Dubbed \"TikTok refugees,\" these creators are sharing their experiences on Xiaohongshu, leading to unique opportunities for cultural exchange and a reevaluation of preconceived notions. Through posts comparing salaries, housing costs, healthcare expenses, and education fees, users from both countries are challenging deep-rooted stereotypes and gaining fresh perspectives.
Many American users express challenges with high living costs, especially healthcare expenses. One user shared, \"I just received a bill for a routine checkup, and it was over $500. I can't imagine the cost of a serious illness!\" Such revelations have sparked discussions about the affordability and accessibility of healthcare.
In contrast, Chinese netizens highlight the affordability of goods and services in their country. \"I can buy a decent apartment in my hometown for the price of a parking space in San Francisco,\" a Chinese user noted. These comparisons shed light on the economic and cultural differences influencing lifestyles in both nations.
The online exchanges extend beyond economics to cultural interests. Chinese netizens are pleasantly surprised by the global popularity of Chinese pop artists like Jackson Wang and Lay Zhang, and their influence on the worldwide music scene. Meanwhile, American users express fascination with the lasting impact of classic rock bands like The Beatles and the Rolling Stones on contemporary music.
These cross-cultural interactions on Xiaohongshu are breaking down barriers and fostering mutual understanding. By sharing personal stories and engaging in open dialogue, netizens from China and the United States are learning about each other's lifestyles, values, and perspectives, paving the way for deeper global connections.
Reference(s):
Life 'audits' on Xiaohongshu demolish cross-cultural stereotypes
cgtn.com
