The recent exodus of TikTok creators from the United States, due to concerns over a potential ban on the app, has led to unexpected cultural exchanges on Xiaohongshu, a Chinese social media platform known as RedNote.
As these \"TikTok refugees\" share their experiences on Xiaohongshu, they have initiated a wave of cross-cultural \"life audits\" between Chinese and American netizens. Users are comparing aspects of daily life such as salaries, housing costs, healthcare expenses, and educational fees. These discussions are challenging deep-rooted stereotypes and revealing surprising contrasts between the two cultures.
For example, many American netizens have expressed their struggles with high living costs, particularly healthcare expenses.
\"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 have highlighted the affordability of goods and services in their country. The cost of housing, especially in smaller cities, is often significantly lower than 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 crazy how different our living experiences are.\"
These online exchanges have also delved into cultural insights. Chinese users 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 global interest in Korean pop music (K-pop). This has led to discussions about the globalization of music, the influence of Asian culture on worldwide pop culture, and changing dynamics in the music industry.
Similarly, American netizens are intrigued by the enduring popularity of classic rock bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, and their influence on contemporary music. This has sparked debates about preserving musical heritage and the evolution of genres across generations.
These cross-cultural exchanges on Xiaohongshu offer valuable opportunities for users to learn about different lifestyles, values, and perspectives. By engaging in open dialogue, netizens from both countries are breaking down stereotypes and fostering a deeper understanding between cultures.
Reference(s):
Life 'audits' on Xiaohongshu demolish cross-cultural stereotypes
cgtn.com
