Chinese science fiction is captivating audiences worldwide, with growing global interest and media exposure in recent years, according to two newly released reports. Led by the works of acclaimed author Liu Cixin, Chinese sci-fi is breaking cultural barriers and sparking curiosity about China’s rich history and culture.
A report on the overseas footprint of Chinese sci-fi, compiled by the China Science Fiction Research Center and the Academy of Contemporary China and World Studies, highlights a steady rise in global search trends and media reports about Chinese sci-fi between 2018 and 2023. The report was released at the eighth China Science Fiction Convention, which concluded on Monday.
Liu Cixin’s groundbreaking novel The Three Body Problem has become a flagship for Chinese sci-fi novels in terms of overseas influence. Film adaptations of his work, such as The Wandering Earth, have also topped the charts in the movie category, amplifying the genre’s global reach.
“Big intellectual properties like Liu’s works can become trailblazers,” said Ji Shaoting, a member of the science fiction committee of the China Writers Association. “They have piqued interest in Chinese sci-fi and prompted the translation of other Chinese works into various languages.”
This surge in interest is not confined to the West. “A similar trend has emerged in Japan, with numerous Chinese science fiction titles being published in Japanese, fueled by the immense popularity of The Three Body Problem,” Ji added.
Another report on the global impact of The Three Body Problem intellectual properties indicates that international fans are particularly drawn to elements from Chinese history and culture, surpassing other aspects such as human emotions and advanced technology. Nearly 80 percent of overseas interviewees expressed a desire to understand China after watching the Chinese TV adaptation of The Three Body Problem, according to the report jointly released by the China Science Fiction Research Center and Tencent Horizon.
“Many sinologists I met in Europe are excited about The Three Body Problem,” noted Wu Yan, a renowned researcher on Chinese sci-fi. “They told me that the work has sparked an enthusiasm for studying the Chinese language.”
The expanding global footprint of Chinese science fiction signifies more than just a literary trend; it reflects a growing cultural exchange. As readers around the world delve into these imaginative narratives, they are also exploring the depths of Chinese philosophy, history, and societal perspectives.
This phenomenon offers valuable insights for business professionals, academics, and cultural enthusiasts alike. For investors and market analysts, it underscores the potential of China’s creative industries on the global stage. Scholars and researchers can explore new avenues of cross-cultural studies, while members of the Asian diaspora find renewed connections to their heritage.
As Chinese sci-fi continues to gain momentum, it fosters a richer understanding of China’s role in global affairs and its cultural contributions to the world. The enthusiastic reception of works like Liu Cixin’s is paving the way for a new era of international appreciation for Chinese storytelling.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
