TikTokers are flocking to RedNote: What are the first refugees in China? – The supreme court ruling against a ban on short-form video apps
Instead of wallowing in misery about potentially losing access to their favorite short-form video app, many TikTokers are flocking to RedNote, a Chinese social media platform also called Xiaohongshu. I’ve decided to spend some time on the platform myself, and it looks like so-called “TikTok refugees” are excited about interacting with a community mainly comprised of Chinese-speaking users — and vice versa.
The RedNote users are welcoming TikTokers with open arms. RedNote users want to introduce the app and share tips and tricks to help you navigate it. One creator says, “now’s the perfect time to dive into Chinese culture” through RedNote with the Chinese New Year coming up, adding that users on the platform are “obsessed with Luigi, Trump, and Squid Game.” Some even offer to teach their new community members Chinese.
The Supreme Court heard oral arguments on Friday from TikTok and the US government, which respectively made their cases for and against a law passed last year that would force TikTok to sell its US operations or be banned by January 19. The justices appear to think the law is constitutional, and that will likely keep users away from the app. TikTok is likely to remain on phones who have downloaded it, but it could be deleted from US app stores, causing people to look for a new home.
How Popular is RedNote in China? Share What You Know About Us (and How You Want to Share It With Your Chinese Friends) and Tell Us About Your Trips
But many TikTokers are equally curious about RedNote users in China, too. Chinese friends, take pictures of your food or snacks today! One user asked if they were curious to see what they typically eat. One person is asking, “I am American.” Do you like us? We know y’all not the enemy. Can we all be friends?”
Launched in 2013 as a shopping platform, RedNote has grown into one of China’s most popular social apps featuring photos, videos, and written content. The increase in users from another part of the globe happened in just two days, with more than 700,000 joining RedNote. There are less than 150 million Americans who had already used the app by early 2023.