2025 in Review

2025-in-review

Why Young Chinese Think the World Is a ‘Ragtag Troupe’

Contributions from individuals with unique perspectives to share. Hear from everyone, from experts and commentators to those whose voices are often marginalized.

VOICES & OPINION

A 2025 buzzword speaks to how many in China have grown disenchanted by once highly respected companies and institutions.

Cai Yineng

The Buzzword Capturing Chinese Gen Z’s Individualism

In a break with older generations, young Chinese are opting for self-love without first imposing hardships on themselves.

Zeng Yuli

Cheers to Me: The ‘Self-Love’ Memes Taking Hold in China

Timely reports on issues and events from across China. Drawing on a vast range of sources, these succinct articles provide insights into the significance of each issue in a wider context.

NEWS

Online trends celebrating effort, rest, and self-compassion are reshaping how young Chinese deal with burnout and worth.

Jiang Xinyi

China’s 2025 in Photos

Visual stories that get up close and personal with contemporary China. A mix of short videos, documentaries, photography, and data visualization.

MULTIMEDIA

A selection of the year’s best photos by Sixth Tone’s visual editors.

Sixth Tone

Virtual Reality Is Taking Off in China — as Immersive Shows

Hundreds of VR experiences have launched across the country, allowing visitors to go back in time, visit faraway places, or join the action of their favorite movies.

Huang Wei

In 2025, Chinese Domestic Games Go Indie, and Local

Last year, China’s game industry was abuzz with the megahit that was Black Myth: Wukong. This year, domestic games are finding their footing — and challenging the status quo with innovative gameplay.

Kong Degang

In 2025, China’s Film Industry Chased a Fragmenting Audience

Chinese cinemagoers are increasingly discerning. They prefer high-quality movies over holiday blockbusters, and pick films that appeal to their demographic.

Gui Lin

For China’s AI Industry, 2025 Was Just the Beginning

A year that began with DeepSeek’s surprise launch has since only shown more convincingly that Chinese AI is forging a path of impressive innovation.