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How Candise Lin Became the Unofficial Ambassador of Chinese Internet Culture

Mar 03, 2025 - wired.com
Candise Lin, a California-based social media influencer, has become a key figure in connecting Western and Chinese social media cultures. With over 2.3 million followers on TikTok and Instagram, Lin introduces Western audiences to Chinese internet culture through her videos, which often feature viral trends, celebrity gossip, and memes from China. Her content gained significant attention when she introduced the Chinese app Red Note to Western audiences, especially during a period when TikTok faced potential bans in the US. Lin's approach is to remain apolitical, focusing on lighthearted and humorous content, which has helped her maintain a neutral stance amidst the often polarized discussions about China.

Lin's background as a Cantonese tutor and her academic experience in educational psychology inform her content creation, allowing her to effectively bridge cultural gaps. Despite facing criticism from both pro- and anti-China voices, Lin's videos are appreciated for their humor and relatability, offering a rare glimpse into Chinese internet culture for Western audiences. Her ability to present Chinese social media trends in an engaging and non-political manner has fostered a community of followers who appreciate the cultural exchange and humor she provides.

Key takeaways:

  • Candise Lin is a social media influencer who connects Western and Chinese social media worlds by introducing Chinese internet culture to Western audiences.
  • Lin's videos focus on innocuous and humorous content, avoiding political topics to maintain a neutral stance and appeal to a broad audience.
  • Her content has led to increased interest in the Chinese app Red Note among Western users, especially during times of uncertainty around TikTok's availability in the US.
  • Despite facing criticism from both pro- and anti-China voices, Lin has successfully created a space for civil and friendly discussions about Chinese internet culture.
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