Despite being a relatively new concept in China, the country now boasts more than 100 comedy clubs, and investors are interested. The industry's biggest production company, Xiaoguo Culture, is reportedly looking to involve tech giant Baidu in its plans. Open mic nights, where amateurs tell jokes in front of a live audience, began appearing in major cities like Beijing and Shanghai in 2009. What's behind the rise is this style of comedy in China, and why now? Also, despite the expanding popularity, many comedians are struggling to make a living. They are essentially the ones who'll decide whether this concept takes off in China. Why is that? Jin Yuchen, chief executive officer of Eureka International, who has done some stand-up comedy routines in New York and Shanghai, shares his own experience and insights on this topic.