simplified Chinese: 网红; pinyin: wǎng hóng

Internet Celebrity

Definition
Individuals who earn popularity and reputation solely via online platforms, such as social networking, streaming, or video-sharing websites, are referred to as “Internet Celebrities” in Chinese (Johnson et al., University of California Press, 2023). The word “Internet Celebrity” is translated as “wǎng hóng.” These online superstars often develop significant followers due to their distinctive material, amusing personalities, or skill in a particular field (Cunningham et al., pp 719-736).

Explanation
An explanation is provided that the proliferation of social media and online content platforms has resulted in the emergence of a new category of celebrities known as the 潑红 (wǎng hóng). These individuals can come from various backgrounds, such as influential people in the beauty and fashion industries, gamers, food critics, and others (Cunningham et al., pp 719-736). The change in celebrity culture from conventional media to the domain of digital media is reflected in the use of this word.

Context of Usage
In the context of Internet conversations, media reporting, and marketing initiatives, the term “we” is often used. Businesses often work with internet superstars to take advantage of their broad online reach and interact with younger audiences proficient in digital technology.

Previous example
For instance, a beauty vlogger who routinely makes cosmetics lessons on a prominent video-sharing site may be referred to as a 网红. Cosmetic manufacturers may seek them out for product endorsements, demonstrating that their impact goes beyond the realm of the box office.

Example
The following is an example of a post that a person may make on social media: “Just discovered this hilarious comedian who does spot-on impressions of celebrities.” I couldn’t help but laugh out loud! 😂 This is a must-watch.

Works Cited
Cunningham, Stuart, David Craig, and Junyi Lv. “China’s live streaming industry: platforms, politics, and precarity.” International Journal of Cultural Studies 22.6 (2019): 719-736.

Johnson, David, Andrew J. Nathan, and Evelyn S. Rawski, eds. Popular culture in late imperial China. Univ of California Press, 2023.