"Tomorrow, you are turning Chinese," a creator says in a viral TikTok video, listing a series of distinct Chinese lifestyle habits. The playful "prophecy" by @sherryxiiruii has sparked a global fever, gaining nearly 750,000 likes and sparking a top-trending hashtag #BecomingChinese.
Building on the initial post, international TikTok users have increasingly posted their own videos under the same theme, showcasing their "Chinese-style" lives. These videos often highlight subtle but significant lifestyle changes, such as drinking warm water instead of iced beverages, practicing Baduanjin (an ancient Chinese wellness exercise), exploring traditional Chinese medicine, preparing basic Chinese dishes, as well as reshaping diet, sleep, and work routines to achieve a more balanced daily rhythm.
Reactions to the content have been largely positive, with many viewers describing the practices as "healthy" and "effective." Some express appreciation for the openness of Chinese creators, "I'm very thankful that Chinese people are sharing these things with us. I'm taking advice to become healthier and more disciplined." Others focus on personal experience, commenting that they "tried it last night and it was seriously so good," while newcomers also say they are actively seeking out the "Becoming Chinese" trend for guidance. Such responses indicate a sustained enthusiasm in Chinese everyday practices that extends beyond fleeting online attention.
The earliest initiators of this trend, Chinese-American content creator Sherry Zhu emphasizes that the trend's ability to open people's views toward Chinese culture. "What matters the most is that people are willing to learn about Chinese culture," she says. For Sherry, this willingness to learn and understand ensures that even when the trend quiets down, a lasting cultural curiosity continues to grow.
The trend goes beyond mere cultural exchanges; it represents a growing interest in Chinese lifestyle values. The "Becoming Chinese" fever has proven that China has gone beyond the conventional labels in foreigners' eyes, such as Kung Fu and cheongsam, and has gradually emerged as a global trend, attracting international followers to live a Chinese life.
According to the Global Soft Power Index 2025 published by Brand Finance, China has climbed to second place in the Index, achieving its highest position to date.
In an accompanying commentary, Brand Finance said that China's soft power advancement can be attributed to its strategic efforts to enhance its global image, including a series of opening-up policies, a renewed focus on sustainable development and stronger product brands.
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