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China’s Dark New Trend: ‘Self-Discipline Challenges’

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

The games have eerie similarities to the Netflix series “Squid Game,” with debtors attempting to complete practically impossible tasks to win a huge cash reward.

Shanghai Launches Campaign Against Smoking in Outdoor Public Spaces

The drive will target people smoking while waiting in line, walking on busy streets, or standing outside entrances to public buildings.

China Rejoices as UNESCO Recognizes Spring Festival

The decision has gone massively viral in China, with many taking it as official recognition of the holiday’s Chinese origins.

Chinese Influencer Sparks Outrage by Mocking Jobless Youth

Yang Yue thought he was being funny by asking, “Is it really that hard to get a job?” Millions of angry netizens disagreed.

In China, a New Paid Period Leave Policy Revives an Old Debate

A new initiative in Yunnan province, allowing women to take up to two days off with a doctor’s note, has reignited discussions about a decades-old policy few have even heard of.

In Northeast China, a Rogue Tiger Terrorizes an Unsuspecting Village

Local authorities have urged residents to stay indoors while they hunt for the fugitive feline, which has already attacked several villagers.

China Introduces Yet More Tax Cuts to Spur Real Estate Market

The move comes amid a broader government effort to revive China’s economy.

China Has Had Enough of Heavily Photoshopped Headshots

Many young Chinese choose to get headshots for official documents done at professional studios. But growing restrictions could bring the practice to an end.

Why China’s Soccer Reforms Are Struggling to Deliver

The government believes it has identified the root problem holding back Chinese soccer: the “12-year-old trap.”

Talk in Your Sleep? You Could Be at Risk of a Stroke

Sleep talking, once considered harmless, is actually a strong predictor of severe health problems including strokes, researchers at China’s Fudan University have found.

AstraZeneca Executive Behind China Growth Under Investigation

The pharma giant confirmed that Wang Lei, the executive vice president who oversaw AstraZeneca’s rapid expansion in China, is cooperating with authorities, though details of the investigation are unclear.

Signs of Unity: Can China’s Deaf Community Find a Common Language?

Articles that cut to the core of contemporary China. In-depth, informed, and carefully crafted, every piece is carried by the voices of the story’s participants.

FEATURES

While many deaf people in China want a standard sign language, there has also been resistance.

China’s Latest Pro-Marriage Tactic: Grammable Wedding Venues

The government hopes to tempt couples to tie the knot by letting them register their marriage at local scenic spots, beaches, and temples.

Cigarette Sales Are Rising in China, Defying Global Trend

The use of “slim cigarettes” and a slowdown in official anti-tobacco efforts is concerning experts.

China Expands Insurance Coverage for Cochlear Implants

There are over 27 million people affected by hearing loss in China, but many can’t afford surgery.

In China’s New Stand-up Comedy Shows, Women Have All the Best Lines

Stand-up comedy has returned to China’s TV screens after a yearlong absence, with a new generation of outspoken female performers at the fore.

Adventure Meets Risk as Tourists Flock to Yunnan’s Wild Peaks

Fueled by viral videos, tourists are flocking to Yunnan’s uncharted forests during the National Holiday, prompting safety warnings and fines for entering restricted areas.

‘Flying Cars’ Are Part of China’s New Economic Growth Plan

China is targeting a new economic growth driver by opening up the skies to drones and helicopters.

Ye Performs in China for First Time in 16 Years

The rapper’s appearance has stunned music fans across China — and sparked calls for authorities to clear more gigs by international stars.

China Confronts a Worrying New Scam: Vanishing Businesses

The owners of struggling gyms, beauty salons, and tuition centers are hiring professional “store closers” to help them suddenly disappear without a trace — and take their customers’ money with them.