Archive · 12 Aug 2025
China's 'Pretend Offices' Address Job Market Pressures
In China, some young people are renting fake office spaces to pretend they have a job.
This is because it can be difficult to find work, and there is pressure to appear employed.
They pay daily fees to use the offices.
Some use the spaces to search for jobs, build skills, and feel less isolated.
Others are doing it to fulfill work requirements to obtain their diploma.
This trend highlights challenges young people face in the current job market.
Young Chinese adults are paying for office spaces to simulate work due to job market pressures.
This trend is prevalent in major cities like Shenzhen and Shanghai, and is used by unemployed individuals.
Users pay daily fees, with some packages including lunch, snacks, and drinks.
The practice helps some maintain appearances, build discipline, and network.
Some use the spaces to fulfill internship requirements for diplomas.
- Who
- Unemployed youth, recent graduates, and those needing to fulfill work requirements.
- What
- Young Chinese adults are renting office spaces to simulate a work environment.
- When
- The trend is emerging, with reports available in 2025.
- Where
- Major cities in China, including Shenzhen, Shanghai, and others.
- Why
- To combat unemployment stigma, find structure, and meet diploma requirements.
Proponents
Critics
Impact on Career
Proponents
Provides structure, purpose, and community for unemployed youth.
Critics
May delay real career development and perpetuate a culture where appearance matters more than actual employment.
Societal Impact
Proponents
Offers mental relief and a sense of dignity.
Critics
Can be a temporary solution that doesn't address root causes.
- Daily Rental Cost
- 30 to 50 yuan
- Primary User Groups
- Unemployed youth and recent graduates
- Main Activities
- Job searching, freelance projects, and fulfilling diploma requirements.
- Cities Involved
- Shenzhen, Shanghai, Nanjing, Wuhan, Chengdu, and Kunming
