A digital cultural revolution is unfolding across TikTok and Instagram as thousands worldwide adopt Chinese daily habits through the viral #BecomeChinese challenge. From drinking warm water to wearing indoor slippers, this trend reflects growing global curiosity about Chinese traditions in early 2026.
Chinese-American creator Sherry Zhu sparked the movement by inviting followers to embrace "Chinese baddie" lifestyles. "It's not about ethnicity – it's celebrating shared human experiences through cultural practices," Zhu told KhabarAsia. Her videos showcasing practical wellness habits have drawn participation from users in 78 countries.
The phenomenon coincides with increased interest in Chinese language learning apps, which reported 40% growth in non-Asian markets this January. Cultural analysts note the trend aligns with China's soft power initiatives and younger generations' appetite for cross-cultural exchange.
Later today at 19:00 Beijing Time, Zhu will join anthropologist Dr. Li Wei and digital trend expert Raj Patel in a live discussion exploring how ancient customs find new life through modern social media. The panel will examine whether this represents superficial trend-chasing or meaningful cultural engagement.
