The recent exodus of TikTok creators from the United States, facing an imminent ban on the app, has led them to Xiaohongshu, the Chinese social media platform also known as RedNote. This migration has sparked a wave of cross-cultural comparisons and exchanges between Chinese and American netizens, giving rise to what some are calling “life audits.”
As these “TikTok refugees” share their experiences on Xiaohongshu, they engage in discussions comparing various aspects of daily life in China and the United States, from salaries and rents to healthcare costs and educational expenses. These online interactions are challenging deep-rooted stereotypes and offering fresh perspectives on each other’s cultures.
American users often share their struggles with high living costs, particularly in urban areas, with the exorbitant cost of healthcare being a common theme.
“I just got a simple bill for a routine checkup and it was over $500,” one 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 goods and services in their country. The cost of housing, especially in smaller cities, is 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,” a Chinese user posted. “It’s crazy how different our living experiences are.”
These disparities are often attributed to factors such as government policies, economic development, and cultural differences.
The online exchanges extend beyond economics to cultural insights. Chinese netizens express surprise at the global popularity of Chinese pop music (C-pop) artists like Jackson Wang and Lay Zhang, and their contribution to the growing influence of Korean pop music (K-pop) globally. This has led 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 has sparked debates about the preservation of musical heritage and the evolution of musical genres across generations.
These cross-cultural exchanges on Xiaohongshu are providing valuable opportunities for people from different backgrounds to learn about each other’s lifestyles, values, and perspectives. By engaging in open dialogue, users are breaking down stereotypes and fostering greater understanding between cultures.
Reference(s):
Life 'audits' on Xiaohongshu demolish cross-cultural stereotypes
cgtn.com
