TikTokers are adopting Chinese food and style trends en masse.The trend started with Chinese creators sharing aspects of the culture including Douyin makeup tutorials, traditional clothing, and lip-syncing to Chinese songs. But, it has since evolved into a playful invitation for others to adopt some new everyday habits. Leading creators like Sherry (@sherryxiiruii) and Emma Peng (@emmapeng0619) blend humor with authenticity, encouraging viewers to try things like hot pot, congee for breakfast, house slippers, and drinking hot lemon water over coffee. Commenters are excitedly leaning into the cultural exchange, like one who wrote, “As a southern American girl raised on grits, I’m so excited to try congee.” While participating in cultural routines outside one’s own can quickly get murky online, many Chinese creators are encouraging the wave of interest. And with Lunar New Year approaching on February 17, this cultural moment is likely to keep building. (Her Campus)
