The Impact of Social Platforms on Cultural Transmission: A Study of the " Rednote Refugees" Phenomenon
TL;DR
The findings indicate that Rednote refugee phenomenon represents a complex process of cross-cultural re-socialization, demonstrating that user interaction on social platforms can significantly impact cultural transmission.
Abstract
This paper investigates the sudden influx of "TikTok refugees" to Rednote platform in early 2025 following the ban of TikTok in several countries. It analyzes the user behaviors and cross-cultural dynamics that emerged during this digital migration and subsequent socialization process. The study first examines the contradictory yet symbiotic relationship between refugees' forced displacement and their active efforts to establish roots on a new platform. It then explores how Rednote facilitates this transition through open registration policies and the rapid deployment of translation tools. Furthermore, the paper discusses how both refugee and local user groups achieve social satisfaction through information exchange and emotional resonance, extending the platform's entertainment attributes into the realm of intercultural communication. Finally, it analyzes the commercial opportunities and cultural challenges—such as cultural discount due to linguistic differences—that arise from this user influx. The findings indicate that Rednote refugee phenomenon represents a complex process of cross-cultural re-socialization, demonstrating that user interaction on social platforms can significantly impact cultural transmission. This study concludes by discussing the implications for platform governance and the future of digital cultural exchange.