China's social media app RedNote has seen an influx of over 700,000 new users from the U.S., as many seek an alternative to TikTok, amid looming concerns over a potential U.S. ban on the popular platform. Known as Xiaohongshu in China, RedNote has unexpectedly become a space for cross-cultural exchange, with users swapping personal photos and discussing topics ranging from food to pets.
While many Chinese users have embraced the new arrivals, greeting them with selfies and messages like "Welcome TikTok refugees," there has been some resistance. Nationalist bloggers have expressed concern over the influence of American users on the platform, warning that their presence might alter its content. Some users have also criticized the influx, claiming that their platform is being taken over by foreign users.
The surge comes as the U.S. government intensifies its scrutiny of TikTok due to national security concerns, with over 170 million Americans using the app. For many, RedNote has offered a refuge from the uncertainty surrounding TikTok's future.
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| China cautiously embraces influx of 'TikTok refugees' on RedNote |
Among those interacting with U.S. users is Jacob Hui, a translator from Hangzhou, China, who participated in live chats between Chinese and American influencers, discussing cultural differences such as video game preferences. Hui expressed excitement about the opportunity to engage directly with Americans, something that was not easily available in the past.
Chinese state media has lauded the development, with CCTV celebrating the influx of American users finding a "new home" on RedNote. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun reiterated that the use of social media is a "personal choice" and emphasized China's support for fostering cultural exchanges between nations.
However, the shift hasn't been universally accepted. Some Chinese users have voiced dissatisfaction with the platform's changing dynamic. Ren Yi, a prominent blogger, cautioned against being influenced by American propagandists, claiming that subtle strategies could lead to manipulation.
There are also signs that foreign users are testing RedNote's censorship boundaries, with some reporting issues posting content about politically sensitive topics, such as the 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown. As the platform scrambles to navigate this influx of international users, it is reportedly working on enhancing moderation tools and building English-Chinese translation features.
Despite the early enthusiasm, experts like Liu Xingliang, an independent analyst, predict that the popularity of RedNote among American users may be short-lived. However, for now, the platform remains a surprising space for cross-border interaction amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
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