From the surge in popularity of Chinese cinema across the globe, to the intense rivalry behind China’s top food-delivery platforms, and a slew of new creative slang, 2025, the Year of the Snake, reshaped how the world saw China.
Throughout the year, TWOC has tracked these changes through human-centered, in-depth reporting and storytelling. Below are the posts that resonated most with our readers each month. Join us in revisiting these moments that defined the year.
December
How Roasted Nuts and Seeds Become a Staple Winter Snack in China
Once a humble household snack and Chinese New Year staple, “chaohuo” has now become a hundred-billion-yuan business
Novmeber
The Magic of Konjac: What’s Behind China’s Obsession with the Toxic Plant
A poisonous ancient plant, konjac has become the country’s favorite crunchy, stimulating snack—and a global sensation for its healthy yet addictive bite
October
Thought the term “curator” was popular? Learn why China's Gen Z are turning against curator cafés
The specialty of the curator: ignoring consumers
Now, whenever I see the word ‘curator,’ I just want to run. It’s basically a pretentious way of saying, ‘Time to milk some naive customers!’
If your social circle doesn’t include at least one or two curators running trendy cafés or boutiques, you probably don’t have any friends at all.
September
China’s malls, supermarkets, and restaurants are entering a new era
August
Why China’s “Migrant Learners” Are Turning to Nepal
More young Chinese are flocking to their western neighbor to study, travel, or simply escape the stresses of home life at an affordable rate
July
Chinese Rappers Are Turning Hometown Slang Into Chart-Toppers
From Skai Isyourgod (Lan Lao), whose breakout hit, “Blueprint Supreme,” took over TikTok, to Zhang Fangzhao, better known as the “God of Henan Rap,” Gen Z rappers are topping charts by rapping in their local dialects
June
While the film industry struggles, Chinese productions are gaining momentum on smaller screens, as C-dramas and micro-dramas grow overseas
May
China’s Food Delivery Platforms Go Toe to Toe
Meituan, Ele.me, JD—who will have the last laugh? Or will there truly be a winner?
April
Rethinking ADHD: Young Chinese Find Support and Strength in Safe Online Spaces
With growing awareness, many in China are finding support online, but experts caution against the romanticization of the condition and over-reliance on internet diagnoses
March
Changsha’s Star Turn
February
Ne Zha: From Myth to Cultural Icon
Nezha, the Buddhist boy deity known for his rebellious streak, dominated international headlines as the animated film Ne Zha 2 shattered box office records
January
The Year in Chinese Cinema: Movies of 2024
From forgotten WWII histories to women-centered narratives, these were the films that defined 2024
