RedNote rising: How ‘TikTok refugees’ sparked a US-China social media phenomenon

As TikTok faces a looming ban in the United States, thousands of users are flocking to Red Note, also known as Xiaohongshu, a Chinese social media app often referred to as “China’s answer to Instagram.” Founded in 2013, Red Note has gained immense popularity with its 300 million users, offering a blend of Instagram, Pinterest, and Vine-like features that focus on product recommendations and lifestyle inspiration. However, the influx of American users has sparked debates over cultural clashes and censorship concerns. Reports from Reddit and TikTok highlight user discussions around avoiding certain sensitive topics, such as LGBTQ+ content, to navigate the platform's restrictions. This shift raises questions about whether Red Note can provide a true alternative to TikTok or if it will follow a similar trajectory of controversy. The controversy surrounding Red Note comes as the Supreme Court recently upheld a decision to ban TikTok, citing national security concerns over data collection and foreign adversary control. Although President Biden has decided not to enforce the ban during his final days in office, the decision will soon pass to President-elect Donald Trump, leaving TikTok’s fate—and the future of platforms like Red Note—uncertain. With social media apps increasingly embroiled in political, cultural, and security debates, users are left questioning where they can find a space to create and connect without compromise.

However, RedNote is also a product of modern China’s capitalist reality. The app’s success lies in its ability to monetize social interactions and integrate...

With TikTok facing a potential ban in the US, many American users are migrating to RedNote, also known as Xiaohongshu. Unexpectedly, they have found a shared...