he-qitong

Actor Sues After Gangster’s Classic TV Lines Used in Video Game

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

Everyone’s a gangster until a real gangster walks into the room.

Authorities Target Loan Agencies Over AI-Driven Phone Harassment

An investigation by state broadcaster CCTV revealed that agencies use AI systems to mimic reputable loan platforms to engage clients. Shanghai authorities are now prioritizing action against such fraudulent operations.

AI Content Rising, China’s Bilibili Rolls Out New Labeling System

Bilibili’s new system also includes tags for dangerous behavior, excessive consumption, and potential discomfort, but prioritizes AI-generated content when multiple labels are applicable.

Why China’s E-Bike Market Is Facing a Wave of Battery Fires 

Experts say the rapid growth of the electric battery market in China has far outpaced current safety regulations.

Young Chinese Are Signaling Burnout — With Quirky Profile Photos

Using memes and anime, profile photos have become the new canvas for Chinese youth, serving as both an outlet for their frustrations and subtle resistance against the pressures of work culture.

After China’s World Cup Setback, Basketball Star Yi Jianlian Retires

After losing to Serbia and South Sudan, China need to beat Puerto Rico by at least 35 points to keep their Paris Olympics qualification hopes alive.

China’s Top Science Body to Experts: Don’t Speak Beyond Expertise

In a major overhaul of its code of conduct, the Chinese Academy of Sciences has barred academicians from making comments outside their areas of expertise and misusing their titles for undue benefits.

‘Don’t Call Anymore!’ Actor’s Plea Sparks Discussion On Cold Callers 

Netizens have been sharing their stories of their personal information being leaked after a well-known actor received more than 100 calls from different parts of the country.

In China, Pet Psychics and Their True Believers 

From making requests for their owner’s funeral attire to sharing their plans in the afterlife, pet psychics in China are making pets’ voices heard — and making big bucks while doing it.

Homebuying Yet to Heat Up in China’s Smaller Major Cities 

In two Chinese cities desperate for real estate to pick up again after a difficult few years, real estate agents say the latest loosening of homebuying restrictions has yet to make a substantial impact.

As Nolan Arrives, Chinese Fans React to ‘Oppenheimer’ Release

For devoted Chinese fans of Christopher Nolan, his latest film about the invention of the atomic bomb is another masterpiece. But can the film overcome its controversial subject matter and reach a broad audience in China?

On Taobao, Someone Will Yell at Your Hopeless Romantic Friend for a Fee 

Apart from giving love advice, other services include simple chitchats and morning wake-up calls.

To Boost Its ‘Night Economy,’ Fuzhou Offers Free Subway Rides 

The increased passenger flow from free subway rides is expected to drive more foot traffic to local businesses after 5 p.m.

After String of Gas Explosions, China Updates Safety Guidelines

In the first half of 2023, 294 gas explosion incidents led to 57 fatalities and 190 injuries, with over half attributed to liquefied petroleum gas.

Discount Duel: China’s Top Retail Giants Go Head-to-Head on Prices

With several traditional supermarket chains shutting shop, Sam’s Club and Freshippo are locked in a race to expand their market share and adapt to a new consumer landscape in Beijing and Shanghai.

Retro Stores Selling Vulgar Snacks Under Investigation

The stores are suspected of violating China’s advertising law because of their vulgar content and lack of labeling.

China’s Craigslist, 58.com, Accused of Selling Graduates’ Résumés 

The controversial website is allegedly using fake job notices to get job seekers to submit their résumés, which are then sold to educational training institutions for marketing purposes.

Health Care Conferences Canceled as Anti-Corruption Campaign Intensifies

In recent years, conferences have emerged as an alternative method for kickbacks to be made in the healthcare industry through speakers’ fees and stipends.

Hangzhou To Pay Parents 25,000 Yuan For Third Child From September

The eastern tech hub has also introduced preferential housing policies for families with three children in recent years.

Panic! At the TFBoys Show

The boy band celebrated its 10th anniversary with its first live concert since 2020. But it was the group’s excited, occasionally unruly fans who made headlines.