The recent departure of TikTok creators from the United States, prompted by concerns over an imminent ban on the app, has led to a unique cultural exchange on the Chinese social media platform Xiaohongshu, known also as RedNote. Dubbed \"TikTok refugees,\" these creators have begun sharing their experiences, sparking a wave of cross-cultural comparisons between Chinese and American netizens.
On Xiaohongshu, users are engaging in \"life audits,\" comparing aspects such as salaries, housing costs, healthcare expenses, and education fees. These discussions are challenging longstanding stereotypes and offering fresh perspectives on everyday life in both countries.
American users frequently highlight the high cost of living, particularly in urban areas. A recurring theme is the burden of expensive healthcare. One user shared, \"I just received a bill over $500 for a routine checkup. I can't imagine the cost if I were seriously ill. It's like I'm always one medical bill away from financial disaster.\"
In contrast, Chinese netizens share their experiences of more affordable living costs. Housing, especially in smaller cities, is often cited as significantly less expensive. A Chinese user remarked, \"I can buy a decent apartment in my hometown for the price of a parking space in San Francisco. It's astonishing how different our living experiences are.\"
These interactions also delve into cultural interests. Chinese users express surprise at the global popularity of Chinese pop music (C-pop) artists like Jackson Wang and Lay Zhang. The influence of Asian culture in global pop music, including the rise of Korean pop (K-pop), becomes a topic of enthusiastic discussion.
Conversely, American netizens are intrigued by the continued influence of classic rock bands such as The Beatles and The Rolling Stones on contemporary music. Debates emerge about preserving musical heritage and how music genres evolve across generations.
These cross-cultural exchanges on Xiaohongshu are breaking down barriers, fostering mutual understanding, and providing valuable insights into different lifestyles and perspectives. As netizens audit and share their everyday experiences, they are not only learning about each other's cultures but also redefining global connections in the digital age.
Reference(s):
Life 'audits' on Xiaohongshu demolish cross-cultural stereotypes
cgtn.com
