Beijing: At the second Wuyi Forum, a platform for international academic exchanges, Robert Chard, a sinologist and emeritus professor from the University of Oxford, expressed his hope that the West can come to see China as a “cool,” interesting, and valuable country to learn from.
According to Lao News Agency, the term “cool,” historically dominated by Western cultural expressions, is gradually being redefined as global focus shifts eastward. This shift is illustrated by a foreign social media influencer who, after experiencing a Chinese new energy vehicle, likened it to a futuristic nanny van. An executive from a multinational corporation described China’s market as fair, open, and vast, indicating that for many foreign investors, China represents a land of certainty and opportunity.
China’s cultural confidence is further exemplified in the video game “Black Myth: Wukong,” where the protagonist’s name, traditionally translated as the “Monkey King” for international audiences, is now introduced as simply “Wukong.” This linguistic choice highlights a blend of heritage and progress that is reshaping global perceptions of cultural dynamism. Visa-free policies have led to a surge in foreign travel to China, while online platforms like TikTok showcase billions of views for videos tagged “learning Chinese,” reflecting a rising global interest in understanding and experiencing China.
Despite the growing interest, overcoming long-standing prejudices and outdated stereotypes remains a challenge. The concept of “cultural discount” persists in cross-cultural communication. For instance, the Chinese animated blockbuster “Ne Zha 2,” with its universal themes of defying fate and self-realization, still faces challenges with its culturally specific symbols, which may be unfamiliar to international audiences.
However, entrenched prejudices are not insurmountable. An American father’s simple greeting on the Chinese social media app Xiaohongshu sparked over 10,000 comments and a cross-cultural friendship with a family in Shanghai. Their meeting in March exemplified authentic cross-cultural exchange and illustrated the potential for global understanding when empathy transcends distance.
Such moments are increasingly visible, as demonstrated by American YouTuber iShowSpeed’s livestreamed journey in China, which drew millions of viewers. His unedited broadcasts offered a raw glimpse into contemporary Chinese life, showcasing the country’s rapid development and everyday charm.
Public perception can dispel prejudice, and human connection can bridge even the most entrenched divides. Authentic experiences create the most compelling stories and vibrant narratives. Today, China is embracing the world with confidence and openness. As more of its warm, powerful stories resonate across borders, they foster empathy, deepen connections, and pave the way for new chapters in cultural exchanges and mutual understanding.