The recent movement of TikTok creators from the United States, driven by concerns over an imminent ban on the app, has sparked a wave of cross-cultural exchanges on Xiaohongshu, the Chinese mainland’s social media platform often likened to Instagram and popularly known as RedNote.
These creators, now dubbed “TikTok refugees,” are sharing their experiences on Xiaohongshu, creating unique opportunities for cultural exchange and a re-evaluation of digital landscapes. Their presence has further fueled ongoing “life audits” between Chinese and American netizens on the platform. From comparing salaries and rents to dissecting healthcare costs and educational expenses, these online discussions are challenging deep-rooted stereotypes.
Stark contrasts revealed in these comparisons are often surprising. Many American netizens share their struggles with high living costs, particularly in urban areas. One common theme is the exorbitant cost of healthcare.
“I just got a simple bill for a routine checkup and it was over $500,” an American user shared. “I can’t imagine what a serious illness would cost! I feel like I’m constantly on the brink of financial ruin due to medical expenses.”
In contrast, Chinese netizens highlight the surprising affordability of goods and services in their country. For instance, the cost of housing, particularly in smaller cities, is often significantly lower compared to the United States.
“I can buy a decent apartment in my hometown for the price of a parking space in San Francisco,” posted a user from the Chinese mainland. “It’s crazy how different our living experiences are.”
These disparities are often attributed to factors such as government policies, economic development, and cultural differences.
The online exchanges also reveal fascinating cultural insights. Chinese netizens are surprised by the global popularity of Chinese pop music (C-pop) artists like Jackson Wang and Lay Zhang, and how these artists contribute to the growing popularity of Korean pop music (K-pop) globally. This leads to discussions about the globalization of music, the influence of Asian culture on global pop culture, and the changing dynamics of the music industry.
Similarly, American netizens are intrigued by the enduring popularity of classic rock bands like The Beatles and Rolling Stones, and how these bands continue to influence contemporary music. This sparks debates about the preservation of musical heritage and the evolution of musical genres across generations.
These cross-cultural exchanges offer valuable opportunities for people to learn about different lifestyles, values, and perspectives. As more users engage in these discussions, Xiaohongshu is becoming a vibrant platform for fostering understanding and challenging stereotypes between the Chinese mainland and the United States.
Reference(s):
Life 'audits' on Xiaohongshu demolish cross-cultural stereotypes
cgtn.com
