Round Table China

We dive into the swirling vortex of "review videos." Having served as a beacon of guidance in the vast sea of consumer choices, these videos have now come under the microscope. From unboxing treasures to the latest tech, beauty must-haves, and fashion finds, we've all experienced that thrill of buying some new through the lens of our favorite reviewers. But to what degree can we still trust the digital voices guiding our clicks and choices? / Paid massage chairs in movie theaters, are they a good match (18:53)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Yushun & Josh Cotterill

In a world where the pursuit of innovation and the buzz of technology often dominate headlines, a silent trend brews in the heart of China - the rise of the silver-hair economy. As the country's government shines a spotlight on elderly care, more young people have discovered the potential and profound meaning in this line of career. Today, let's look into a sector that, while not as glamorous as the tech world, is becoming a beacon of hope and opportunity, especially for the younger generation. On the show: Niu Honglin, Yushun & Josh Cotterill

The concrete jungle, with skyscrapers standing hundreds of meters tall, can be quite effective in accommodating urban residents and office workers, but when humanity strays aloof from nature for too long, we tend to feel stressed even unconsciously. Pocket parks offer a good solution to over-developed downtown areas where land is both precious and costly. / Malatang craze: Humble street food of Tianshui takes China by storm (20:38). On the show: Laiming, Niu Honglin & Guo Yan

Counties have been weaving the basic fabric of China's administrative system for more than 2,000 years. They have also been important players in the national economy, and increasingly more so in recent years. We will look at some new consumption trends taking place at the county level. On the show: Laiming, Niu Honglin & Guo Yan

Ever felt the urge to shake up your social routine? Check out blind-box socialization, a captivating trend sweeping through young Chinese people's social culture. It's like cracking open a mystery box of connections, where every encounter holds opportunity for spontaneous relationships, yet also carries potential for unthinkable risks. / Motivational Monday (19:39)! On the show: Heyang, Niu Honglin & Li Yi

Smartphones and mobile phones have become an inseparable part of our daily lives. But when the latest, bright shiny new edition arrives with pomp, what fate awaits its predecessors? It's 2024, for crying out loud! Let's find a cooler, eco-friendly way to give our old devices some new love! On the show: Heyang, Niu Honglin & Li Yi

Round Table's Happy Place! / Get ready to explore a new way of traveling that combines adventure with altruism. But hold on tight, because beneath its glossy exterior lies the intricate landscape of voluntourism (10:50). On the show: Heyang, Xingyu & Josh Cotterill

We examine the complexities of betrothal gifts in China, shedding light on the impact of recent court rules and challenges faced by rural bachelors in finding a spouse. Gift money vs. the Law: Will court regulations curb the financial strains of betrothal gifts in China? On the show: Heyang, Xingyu & Josh Cotterill

From viral videos to office fashion rebels, explore the #UglyWorkOutfit trend that’s shaking up workplace norms. It's not just about what one wears, it's a statement on modern work culture! / Chinese "Bao Gai" makeup makeovers amaze the world (15:00). On the show: Heyang, Ding Heng & Josh Cotterill

One of life's most difficult experiences is losing a loved one. It would be somewhat easier if grief followed a linear path, with stages that neatly fit into boxes. But big feelings can emerge throughout the grieving process. Now, companies are offering the capability to create an AI bot resembling that special person you wish to see again. What drives our desire to keep our loved ones by our side, even in digital form? And at what cost does this technological comfort come? On the show: Heyang, Ding Heng & Josh Cotterill