(China’s New Look) Online articles “going overseas” have become a new window for the world to understand China
On October 7, a press conference in Beijing showcased an intriguing aspect of cultural exchange: the increasing fascination with Chinese web novels among international audiences. One prominent example is Staff Cleary from Singapore, who transitioned from a passionate reader of the web novel “Library of Heaven’s Path” to its English translator. This story revolves around a teacher as the main character, weaving in themes of respect for educators and loyalty through its humorous narrative and character evolution. “Library of Heaven’s Path” has consistently ranked at the top of overseas clicks and recommendations on Qidian’s international platform, WebNovel.
Interestingly, fan engagement has expanded beyond mere translation, with some fans venturing into writing their own stories. For instance, British millennial Calven Jack Sherwin, who became a fan of “Douluo Dalu,” was so inspired that he began creating his own literary works after signing up online in 2019. His novel, “My Vampire System,” a gripping tale of struggle, has amassed over 73 million reads and has been adapted into audio and comic formats. “I incorporated elements common in Chinese web literature, like ‘universe’ and ‘leveling up,’ while also blending a Western sci-fi backdrop. It feels like a bold experiment to me—like blending Harry Potter with Sun Wukong,” he remarked.
Uruguayan writer XIETIAN (谢天) began his journey with Chinese web novels at just 15 years old while studying economics at university. Before becoming a recognized author in online literature, he worked in an accounting firm. His pen name is inspired by a favorite character from a web novel, and he often uses Chinese names for characters in his English works to reflect their traits or strengths. For example, in his popular novel “Blood Sorcerer: Succubus in the Apocalypse,” he names a powerful mage “Ice and Snow.”
The “2023 China Online Literature Blue Book,” released by the China Writers Association’s Online Literature Center, reveals that the international online literature market has now exceeded 40 billion yuan, boasting nearly 200 million active overseas users—80% of whom belong to Generation Z (defined as individuals born between 1995 and 2009)—across numerous countries and regions. By the end of 2023, overseas platforms are expected to have fostered nearly a million local authors, generating over 1.5 million original works.
Statistics indicate that international readers are gaining deeper insights into Chinese traditional culture and contemporary society through Chinese web literature. Data from overseas platforms showed that in 2022, the term “China” appeared in reader comments over 150,000 times. Commonly referenced cultural elements included Daoism, cuisine, martial arts, tea culture, and pandas, with cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Macau, and Hangzhou frequently cited.
Xu Yaoming, executive vice president of the Research Institute of Online Literature at Central South University and an editorial board member for the “2023 China Online Literature Yearbook,” emphasized the dynamic vitality and significant impact of Chinese online literature abroad. Many works are translated into various languages while maintaining their original essence, with a strong focus on cultural context to enhance overseas readers’ understanding of Chinese culture. An increasing number of global readers are turning to Chinese web literature for insights into contemporary China.
“Online literature has become an effective window and channel for young people overseas to understand China,” stated Yao Jianbin, director of the Research Center for Chinese Literature’s Overseas Communication at Beijing Normal University. He highlighted how this literature enables international youth to experience a vibrant and dynamic portrayal of China.
Currently, new cultural forms represented by online literature are emerging as vital mediums for “promoting civilizational exchange and mutual learning.” With its rich imagination, captivating storytelling, and immersive qualities, Chinese online literature continues to captivate readers worldwide. Whether through physical book publishing, spontaneous translations, or interactive online reading platforms, the global influence of Chinese online literature is continuously expanding.
