The recent exodus of TikTok creators from the United States, due to concerns over an imminent ban on the app in the country from Sunday, has sparked a wave of cross-cultural comparisons on Xiaohongshu, the Chinese social media platform often likened to Instagram and also popularly known as RedNote.
These creators, now dubbed “TikTok refugees,” are sharing their experiences on Xiaohongshu, leading to unique opportunities for cultural exchange and a re-evaluation of the digital landscape. Their arrival has further fueled an ongoing “audit” of life between netizens from the Chinese mainland and the United States on the platform. From comparing salaries and rents to dissecting healthcare costs and educational expenses, these online discussions are challenging deep-rooted stereotypes.
The stark contrasts revealed in these comparisons are often surprising. Many American netizens share their struggles with high living costs, particularly in urban areas. A 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, netizens from the Chinese mainland post about the surprising affordability of many 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.” This disparity is often attributed to factors such as government policies, economic development, and cultural differences.
These online exchanges also reveal fascinating cultural insights. Netizens from the Chinese mainland are surprised by the global popularity of Chinese pop music (C-pop) artists like Jackson Wang and Lay Zhang, and how these artists are contributing to the growing popularity of Korean pop music, or 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 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. As netizens from both countries engage in these discussions, they are breaking down stereotypes and fostering greater understanding in an increasingly interconnected world.
Reference(s):
Life 'audits' on Xiaohongshu demolish cross-cultural stereotypes
cgtn.com
