Rise of 'China-chic' wins fans around world

Rivers to the East

The profound emotional impact of Chinese culture on foreign audiences extends far beyond the confines of the dance stage.

Seven years ago, video blogger Li Ziqi gained global popularity on You-Tube with videos showcasing traditional Chinese culture and lifestyle, leading her to set a Guinness World Record for the most subscribers for a Chinese language channel. Despite a three-year hiatus, her fan base remains nearly 20 million strong.

Chinese stories and elements are also permeating Western media, with titles like Mulan, The Three-Body Problem, and dramas like Joy of Life and Love Between Fairy and Devil being featured on mainstream Western media platforms including Disney+ and Netflix.

In the gaming industry, Black Myth: Wukong, the first China-made 3A video game, has shattered records and ignited interest in the classic novel Journey to the West, with players seeking to understand its cultural references and mythology.

"To understand the story, I searched for Journey to the West online and read it using translation software. I was deeply impressed by the story of the Women's Country," an Italian player commented. Many foreign players have posted interpretations, reactions and even "fan works" about the game on social media.

"I believe that 'China-chic' embodies much more than just a phrase. It represents the spirit of our nation. In a broader context, it signifies our values. It reflects the ideals we uphold, the traditions we cherish and the beliefs we stand by," said Zhu.

The narrative of sharing traditional Chinese culture with the world continues, promising an enduring journey of cultural exchange and enlightenment. As Yang said: "Our efforts to spread Chinese culture are like drops of water slowly coming together. While they may not appear grandiose at first glance, we have to do it, right?"

Contact the writers at idaxue@chinadailyhk.com