Dear MEL Topic Readers,
The buzzwords reflecting the frustration of China's young generation
China has been enjoying robust economic growth and social upgrade since the late 1990s became the second-largest economy in 2008 and the US’s archrival around 2020 in various fields. Many of those who worked hard, often called 996 (working 9 am to 9 pm, six days a week), have earned their reward, increased income, career advancement, the booming housing market, and once-luxurious treatments such as a car, smartphone, and even oversea travels. They of course had their challenges but they also had hope and opportunities. However, just like in the Western developed countries where the young tend to choose to live a more balanced or even minimalist lifestyle, some of the young Chinese people have adopted “a lying flat” attitude, not overworking but being content with attainable and realistic achievements. Indeed, they started experiencing different environments and finding fewer opportunities even if they’ve studied hard and graduated from prestigious universities. Also, as more than 9 million students will graduate from Chinese universities in 2021, the job market is so competitive that many job seekers are going to have to give up their dream jobs or desired career and take whatever job they could get. Naturally, they might feel meaningless to compete with others and rethink what success means to them. This trend is called “involution” and is also seen in other already developed countries like Japan and South Korea.
Enjoy reading the article and learn about what young Chinese people are frustrated about.
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