The recent migration of TikTok creators from the United States, spurred by concerns over an imminent ban on the app, has ignited a wave of cross-cultural comparisons on Xiaohongshu, the Chinese social media platform also known as RedNote. Dubbed \"TikTok refugees,\" these creators are sharing their experiences, leading to unique opportunities for cultural exchange and a reevaluation of the digital landscape.
On Xiaohongshu, Chinese and American netizens are engaging in an ongoing \"audit\" of life, comparing aspects such as salaries, housing costs, healthcare expenses, and education. These online discussions are dismantling deep-rooted stereotypes and revealing striking contrasts between lifestyles.
Many American users share their struggles with high living costs, particularly in urban areas. A common theme is the exorbitant cost of healthcare. One user commented, \"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. The cost of housing, especially in smaller cities, is often significantly lower compared to 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 attributed to factors such as government policies, economic development, and cultural differences.
Beyond economics, these exchanges delve into cultural insights. Chinese netizens express surprise at the global popularity of Chinese pop music (C-pop) artists like Jackson Wang and Lay Zhang, and how these artists contribute to the growing influence of Asian culture in global pop music. This has sparked discussions about the globalization of music and the evolving dynamics of the music industry.
Meanwhile, American users are intrigued by the enduring popularity of classic rock bands like The Beatles and Rolling Stones, and how these bands continue to influence contemporary music. This has led to debates about the preservation of musical heritage and the evolution of genres across generations.
These cross-cultural interactions on Xiaohongshu offer valuable opportunities for people to learn about different lifestyles, values, and perspectives. As the digital landscape becomes increasingly interconnected, platforms like Xiaohongshu play a crucial role in fostering understanding and challenging stereotypes.
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Life 'audits' on Xiaohongshu demolish cross-cultural stereotypes
cgtn.com
