Can you believe it? A cup of hot water and a dance have actually pushed the cultural resonance of "Cool China" to new heights. At the beginning of 2026, inspired by TikTok creator Sherry Xiiruii, global netizens began embracing Chinese habits like drinking hot water and wearing house slippers. Not only that, the previously popular "Penguin Dance" also jumped beyond borders. What exactly is happening behind these online phenomena?

Video director/editor: Liu Binling
Photographer: Liu Binling
Producer: Du Yubin
Executive producer: Wen Yaru
Supervisor: Zhang Shilei