What Are Chinese Youth Nostalgic For?—New Issue Launch

Join our livestream chat this Thursday at 3 PM for a sneak peek of our latest issue, enjoy exclusive discounts, and a chance to win prizes!

Hello TWOC readers!

For China’s Gen Z, the early aught holds a unique charm: The box TVs, pop idols, point-and-shoot cameras, and cartoons of their formative years offer a sharp contrast to the hyper-digitalized world today. “Chinese nostalgia-core (中式梦核)” is flourishing on social media as young people, disenfranchised by the fast pace of society, look for comfort in the fashions and products of the recent past.

Meanwhile, each generation also has its own nostalgia. We interviewed six individuals, aged 15 to 89, about their most treasured memories and their thoughts on social evolution today.

To learn more, join our livestream launch event this Thursday at 3 PM on our official WeChat channel by scanning the code below.

Read on to find out more:

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Nostalgia-Core: Why China’s Gen Z is Embracing the Past

“You have traveled back to the year 2008, and wake to the sound of Tom and Jerry playing on the kids’ channel. Your mom has prepared a plate of chilled watermelon, which you snack on until you and your friends can play The King of Fighters in the afternoon...”Read more

What Are Chinese Generations Nostalgic For? | First Person

Nostalgia is hardly a new or unique phenomenon. TWOC spoke with six individuals from different generations to explore what stirs their memories. Read more

Changsha’s Star Turn: How a Historic City Became China’s “Capital of Entertainment”

Once a land of ancient tombs and modern revolutionaries, Changsha has transformed into a vibrant hotspot for young tourists, bolstered by online influencers and a burgeoning entertainment industry. Read more

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China’s Jolly Snow King Defends His Throne—For Now

Despite a food safety scandal this Consumer Rights Day, Mixue Bingcheng, the largest milk tea brand in China (arguably the world), has remained largely unscathed due to loyal supporters. Learn the viral slang to join the debate around the “Snow King”

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