The recent departure of TikTok creators from the United States, due to concerns over an imminent ban on the app, has led to an unexpected cultural exchange on Xiaohongshu, a Chinese social media platform also known as RedNote. These creators, now referred to as \"TikTok refugees,\" are sharing their experiences and insights, sparking a wave of cross-cultural \"life audits\" between Chinese and American netizens.
As these discussions unfold, users from both countries are comparing various aspects of their daily lives, from salaries and housing costs to healthcare expenses and education. These online conversations are challenging long-held stereotypes and revealing surprising contrasts.
American netizens often express struggles with high living costs, particularly in urban areas. A common theme is the high cost of healthcare. One American user shared, \"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 China. For instance, housing costs, especially in smaller cities, are significantly lower. A Chinese user posted, \"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 exchanges also delve into cultural interests. Chinese netizens are surprised by the global popularity of Chinese pop (C-pop) artists like Jackson Wang and Lay Zhang, and how they contribute to the growing popularity of Korean pop (K-pop) worldwide. This leads to discussions about the globalization of music and the influence of Asian culture on global pop culture.
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 genres across generations.
The cross-cultural dialogue on Xiaohongshu offers valuable opportunities for people to learn about different lifestyles, values, and perspectives. It underscores the importance of open communication and mutual understanding in our increasingly interconnected world.
Reference(s):
Life 'audits' on Xiaohongshu demolish cross-cultural stereotypes
cgtn.com
