The recent migration of TikTok creators from the United States to Xiaohongshu, commonly known as RedNote, has ignited a wave of cross-cultural dialogues between Chinese and American netizens. Concerns over a potential TikTok ban in the U.S. have prompted these \"TikTok refugees\" to share their experiences on the Chinese social media platform, leading to insightful \"life audits\" that challenge long-held stereotypes.
Through candid discussions, users from both countries are comparing various aspects of daily life, including salaries, rent, healthcare costs, and educational expenses. Many American netizens express surprise at the affordability of certain services in China. One user remarked, \"I can hardly believe how accessible healthcare is over there compared to the U.S., where a simple checkup can cost hundreds of dollars.\"
Conversely, Chinese users are gaining a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by Americans, particularly regarding living expenses in urban areas. \"I didn't realize that the cost of living in cities like San Francisco is so high,\" a Chinese netizen commented. \"The price of a parking space there could buy an apartment in my hometown.\"
These exchanges extend beyond economics, delving into cultural appreciation. Chinese netizens are surprised by the global reach of Chinese pop music (C-pop) artists like Jackson Wang and Lay Zhang, and how they contribute to the rising popularity of Asian music worldwide. On the other hand, American users express fascination with the enduring influence of classic rock bands such as The Beatles and Rolling Stones, sparking conversations about musical heritage and cultural exchange.
The cross-cultural interactions on Xiaohongshu are breaking down barriers and fostering mutual understanding. By sharing personal experiences and perspectives, users are not only learning about life in different countries but also discovering common ground. These dialogues highlight the power of social media platforms to bridge cultural divides and promote global connectivity.
Reference(s):
Life 'audits' on Xiaohongshu demolish cross-cultural stereotypes
cgtn.com
