Timely reports on issues and events from across China. Drawing on a vast range of sources, these succinct articles provide insights into the significance of each issue in a wider context.

NEWS

Rising Tones

Hit Chinese Otome Game’s Werewolf Is Too Scary, Fans Say

The game’s developer believed a rugged, muscular werewolf could become its next virtual heartthrob. Many players, however, disagree.

Li Xin

Liu Haowen

Floods Hit Northwest and Southern China After Record Rainfall

As extreme weather events continue to rise, experts warn that the return of El Niño may partly be to blame.

Jiang Xinyi

Student Sues Chinese Airline After 10-Minute Flight Change

The 19-year-old said he believed the flight change policy was unfair to customers, who have to bear the burden of changes in departure times, while airlines face no cost.

Chen Yiru

China’s ‘Magic Mike’ Show Tests the Line Between Dance, Spectacle

A viral all-male dance production has packed theaters and flooded Chinese social media, while critics question its flirtatious choreography.

Bot for Profit: Can China’s Top AI App Convince Users to Pay?

China’s most popular chatbot has announced new subscription plans, marking a turning point for the country’s AI industry as companies look to convert massive user bases into revenue.

Fan Yiying

Li Rongxuan

Robot, Giant, Ha Baby: China’s Many Versions of Erling Haaland

The Norway and Manchester City striker has become an online obsession in China, with fans creating memes and remixes exaggerating his size, expressions, and on-field feats.

Famed Chinese Sci-Fi Writer Sparks Debate Over AI-Written Books

Hao Jingfang admitted that she had used AI to produce her children’s science fiction series.

String Theory: Yarn Crafts Find a New Generation in China

From weaving to knitting, yarn crafts are back in vogue in China. Young professionals and university students are using them to find peace and community, and to connect with family.

134 Days, 68 Places, Zero Internet: One Man’s Journey Through Digital China

Is it possible to travel across modern China without a smartphone? Yang Hao spent 134 days answering that question — awkwardly, slowly, and on purpose.

Wang Juyi

Dettol Ad Backfires in China Over Sexist Setup

The ad attempted to highlight a man’s toxic behavior as the reason for his girlfriend breaking up with him. Many viewers say they just felt offended.

He Qitong

Can a Library Read Your Mood? Wuhan Wants to Find Out

Readers can now receive personalized book recommendations based on their emotional state, as well as explore themed displays and soothing audio experiences.