The recent wave of TikTok creators leaving the United States, prompted by concerns over a potential ban on the app, has led to a surge in cross-cultural exchanges on Xiaohongshu, the Chinese social media platform akin to Instagram, also known as RedNote. These creators, now referred to as \"TikTok refugees,\" are sharing their experiences on Xiaohongshu, opening up unique opportunities for cultural dialogue and re-evaluating digital landscapes.
This influx has intensified the ongoing \"audit\" of life between Chinese and American netizens on the platform. Users are comparing various aspects of daily life, from salaries and housing costs to healthcare expenses and education. These discussions are challenging long-held stereotypes and revealing surprising contrasts.
American netizens often share stories of high living costs, particularly in urban areas, with healthcare expenses being a common concern. One American user expressed frustration: \"I just got a simple bill for a routine checkup and it was over $500. 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 affordability of goods and services in their country. Housing costs, especially in smaller cities, are notably lower than in the United States. A Chinese user noted, \"I can buy a decent apartment in my hometown for the price of a parking space in San Francisco. It's crazy how different our living experiences are.\" These disparities are often attributed to differences in government policies, economic development, and cultural values.
Beyond economic comparisons, these online exchanges are unveiling 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 their influence on the rising popularity of Korean pop music (K-pop) worldwide. This sparks discussions about the globalization of music, the influence of Asian culture on global pop culture, and evolving dynamics in the music industry.
Meanwhile, American netizens express interest in the enduring popularity of classic rock bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, and how these legends continue to shape contemporary music. This leads to debates about preserving musical heritage and the evolution of genres across generations.
These cross-cultural conversations on Xiaohongshu offer valuable opportunities for learning and understanding. By sharing personal experiences and perspectives, netizens from both countries are bridging cultural gaps and fostering mutual appreciation. As digital platforms continue to connect people globally, such dialogues play a crucial role in promoting cross-cultural understanding and dismantling stereotypes.
Reference(s):
Life 'audits' on Xiaohongshu demolish cross-cultural stereotypes
cgtn.com
