Archive · 31 Jan 2026
China's Cultural Push Gains Global Traction
China is trying to become more popular around the world by sharing its culture.
They are using cute dolls, movies, and video games to show how cool and creative they are.
Famous people like Lady Gaga and David Beckham have been seen with these dolls, and a Chinese movie and video game have become very successful.
The Chinese government is supporting these cultural exports to make China look good and to make people inside China proud.
They are also working with foreign influencers to show the positive side of China.
This is part of a bigger plan to make China a stronger and more respected country.
Labubu dolls, created by a Hong Kong artist and sold by Pop Mart, have gained global popularity, appearing in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and being endorsed by celebrities.
The animated film 'Ne Zha 2' and the video game 'Black Myth: Wukong' have achieved significant international success, showcasing China's cultural ambitions.
The Chinese government is supporting cultural exports to enhance its global image and counter Western narratives, with state media and regulators promoting these successes.
China is easing regulatory pressure on creative industries, allowing more freedom for cultural output, and praising successful products to boost their market presence.
Foreign influencers, like American streamer IShowSpeed, are being used to present a positive image of China, with state media highlighting their experiences in the country.
- Who
- China, through state-led initiatives and private companies like Pop Mart
- What
- A push for cultural exports, including Labubu dolls, movies, and video games
- When
- Recent years, with significant events in 2023 and 2024
- Where
- Globally, with a focus on the U.S. and other international markets
- Why
- To enhance China's global image, counter Western narratives, and boost domestic pride
- Labubu Dolls
- Created by Hong Kong artist, sold by Beijing-based Pop Mart
- Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
- Featured Labubu dolls in 2024
- Pop Mart
- Opening 7,000 sq ft flagship store in Times Square
- Ne Zha 2
- First non-Hollywood animated film to gross over $2 billion
- Black Myth: Wukong
- Record-breaking sales in 2024, inspired by 'Journey to the West'
- Li Shulei
- Party’s propaganda minister, advocate for cultural soft power
- IShowSpeed
- American streamer praised for showcasing China
- Videogame Licenses
- 1,771 approved in 2023, 25% increase from 2024