HANGZHOU – Vibrant costumes and creative energy electrified the CPOPwave exhibition this week as China’s animation industry showcased its growing global influence. Over 5,000 attendees gathered to celebrate 20 homegrown intellectual properties (IPs) reshaping entertainment, from blockbuster films to immersive gaming worlds.
Cosplayers dressed as characters from popular franchises like White Cat Legend and Fog Hill of Five Elements emphasized animation’s role in cultural diplomacy. "These stories blend traditional ink painting styles with futuristic themes," said Li Wei, a 24-year-old cosplayer portraying a sword-wielding heroine. "They’re helping the world see China through fresh, youthful eyes."
The event’s industrial-chic venue featured interactive installations demonstrating animation’s $30 billion domestic market growth since 2020. Analysts note exports to Southeast Asia and Europe rose 42% last year, with streaming platforms driving demand.
Organizers highlighted cross-industry collaborations, including a new partnership between Hangzhou’s China Academy of Art and Tencent’s animation studio. "Animation bridges generations and borders," remarked event curator Zhang Mei. "When a fan in Jakarta cosplays a character from Hangzhou, that’s soft power in action."
