When US TikTok clothing influencer Kris Dew joined Chinese social media platform Xiaohongshu, also known as RedNote, she wasn’t sure what to expect. What she found was a warm welcome from Chinese netizens that shattered her preconceived notions about the country.
“Chinese people are the most hospitable people I’ve ever met,” Kris shared. Her private messages were flooded with invitations to visit various cities across the Chinese mainland. Netizens eagerly shared photos of their pets, children, and the stunning scenery from different regions.
Prior to her interactions on Xiaohongshu, Kris admitted she had misconceptions due to misreporting by some US media outlets. “I thought there was a lot of smog in China and that children were working in factories,” she confessed. “But speaking directly with Chinese netizens, I realized these were misconceptions.”
Her experience highlights the power of direct communication in bridging cultural gaps and debunking stereotypes. By engaging with people from the Chinese mainland firsthand, Kris discovered a vibrant and welcoming society.
“It’s been an eye-opening journey,” she said. “I’m excited to continue exploring and learning more about China.”
Reference(s):
U.S. influencer: Talking with Chinese netizens showed me real China
cgtn.com
