The recent movement of TikTok creators from the United States, in response to concerns over a potential ban on the app, has led to a surge of cross-cultural comparisons on Xiaohongshu, the Chinese social media platform akin to Instagram, also known as RedNote.
These creators, now dubbed \"TikTok refugees\", are sharing their experiences on Xiaohongshu, fostering a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and a reevaluation of the digital landscape. This has intensified the ongoing \"audit\" of life between Chinese and American netizens on the platform. From comparing salaries and rents to examining healthcare costs and educational expenses, these online discussions are challenging long-held stereotypes.
The 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 received a 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 affordability of many goods and services in their country. For instance, housing costs, especially in smaller cities, are significantly lower compared to those in the United States.
\"I can buy a decent apartment in my hometown for the price of a parking space in San Francisco,\" a Chinese user posted. \"It's astonishing how different our living experiences are.\"
These disparities are often attributed to factors such as government policies, economic development, and cultural differences.
These 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 global appeal of Korean pop music (K-pop). 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 The 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, effectively challenging and dismantling cross-cultural stereotypes.
Reference(s):
Life 'audits' on Xiaohongshu demolish cross-cultural stereotypes
cgtn.com
