The possibility of a United States ban on the TikTok platform, owned by the Chinese tech company ByteDance, has in recent weeks prompted many American content creators to explore other platforms. One such alternative is Xiaohongshu, often referred to in English as “Red Note,” a social media platform largely unknown outside China until now. An unexpected exodus of content creators to Xiaohongshu has given rise to the hashtag #TikTokrefugee, which has garnered millions of interactions in just a few days. According to The New York Times, many of those flocking to the new app are doing so to “show that they do not share Washington’s concerns about TikTok’s ties to China.” (The New York Times)
These digital movements offer an opportunity to consider ideas of mindfulness, interdependence, and community-building in an online context that is both filled with opportunity and excitement and at the same time filled with danger and fraught with controversy. Even if the TikTok ban does not go into effect—President-elect Trump has signaled that he will oppose it once in office, while Democratic senator Ed Markey introduced a bill this week that would delay a ban for 270 days—the social ripples caused by its proposal will indelibly alter relationships around the world.
The impetus for Americans to explore Xiaohongshu arose after legislators and commentators in Washington increased scrutiny of TikTok’s data-handling practices and potential security risks. TikTok’s popularity soared during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, with hundreds of millions of active users around the world, including about 170 million in the US. However, concerns emerged that the Chinese government could access private user data, including browsing histories and geolocation, or spread misinformation through the platform.
Facing these uncertainties, several TikTok personalities publicly encouraged their followers to download Xiaohongshu, especially after a US Supreme Court case began deliberating whether TikTok might be forcibly sold or even banned. In a matter of days, Xiaohongshu became the most-downloaded free app in Apple’s App Store in the US, with a sudden influx of Americans bridging an online gap with Chinese users. This merging of communities invites us to reflect on how people negotiate cultural differences when engaging with new technology.
According to Buddhist thought, technology itself is neither inherently harmful nor inherently beneficial. Its ethical dimension rests in the motivations and actions of users. With so many new accounts labeled #TikTokrefugee, we see the interplay of curiosity, fear, and perhaps solidarity among Americans seeking fresh online territory. In many ways, this movement underscores the principle of interdependence (Skt. pratityasamutpada), showing that we are affected by events far beyond our immediate control—such as political decisions—and that these can drastically shape our personal trajectories, even in virtual spaces.
Engaging with Xiaohongshu means acting on a platform that was never designed with Western users in mind, creating linguistic hurdles for many newcomers, who often rely on translation software to communicate with Mandarin speakers. Like travelers in a foreign land, these Americans are encountering new cultural norms, moderating their expressions, and adapting to different styles of communication. This process can lead to personal growth and cultural awareness, as one must remain acutely aware of how one’s words might be perceived and respond skillfully when faced with misunderstandings.
Such major shifts are rarely black-and-white. On the one hand, many users feel the drive to expand their horizons, meet new people, and experience digital platforms unencumbered by the controversies swirling around TikTok. On the other hand, US lawmakers and others maintain that national security concerns should not be casually dismissed. A wise approach suggests that we neither minimize these concerns nor let them overshadow the genuine human connection that can arise from conversation and cultural exchange.
Historically, the Buddhist teaching of the Middle Way (Skt. Madhyamaka) reminds us to avoid extremes—in this case, the extremes of dismissing all data-security fears or demonizing the entire concept of cross-cultural digital interactions. Engaged Buddhism in the 21st century encourages thoughtful participation, acknowledging real-world implications such as privacy breaches, misinformation, and potential censorship. Rather than discouraging the move to Xiaohongshu outright, Buddhism prompts us to consider the underlying intention of our actions, to remain vigilant about possible challenges, and to cultivate ethical principles even in a digital environment.
An ancient Buddhist anecdote may help to illustrate some of these issues. Several centuries ago, a Japanese monk named Myoan Eisai (1141–1215) traveled to China during the Song dynasty, seeking deeper knowledge of Chan Buddhism. Navigating unfamiliar languages and local customs, Eisai discovered new scriptural interpretations, meditation methods, and monastic rules that he would later adapt to his home country. Yet upon returning, Eisai encountered suspicion from officials wary of foreign influences and concerned about potential “subversive” knowledge. Nonetheless, Eisai’s engagement with another culture was neither purely dangerous nor wholly utopian—it was a balanced encounter, enriched by care and respect for differences.
This mix of danger, suspicion, and discovery can be seen in the stories of many great Buddhist travelers, translators, and masters. In the same way, Americans on Xiaohongshu may discover fresh viewpoints on everything from daily life in China to creative expressions. At the same time, they could face content moderation distinct from Western norms, a lack of English-language resources, or a rapid need for cultural sensitivity—problems that Eisai similarly confronted centuries ago. His story highlights that crossing digital or geographic boundaries can lead to growth, provided that individuals observe mindful conduct and remain open to mutual understanding.
Reports from new Xiaohongshu users show that most interactions are lighthearted, with Chinese commenters joking about being “Chinese spies,” and Americans, in jest, “offering up” personal data. While these jokes exist, underlying tensions about censorship or controlling speech can easily arise. Right speech in Buddhism guides us to speak truthfully and compassionately. Where comedic banter might mask genuine anxiety, practitioners are urged to remain open, curious, and empathetic. This approach fosters better understanding and reduces potential conflict. Indeed, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has argued that the ban must not proceed, as it “will also endanger the constitutional rights of every American to speak and receive information online.” (ACLU)
One Chinese user, identified only as Abe, wrote in a now-viral post: “For so long we really haven’t been able to connect or talk with each other like this, but now we finally can, and it feels so special.” The user continued: “This is such a real chance for us to get to know each other and maybe create something amazing together. . . . You are not just welcome here, I really, really hope you will stay.” (NPR)
For many content creators, the impetus to find a new platform is practical—they have built audiences, shaped careers around engagement, and cannot afford the risk that TikTok might suddenly vanish. This digital diaspora underscores how reliant some people are on online communities for a sense of belonging or livelihood. The Buddhist principle of non-attachment does not suggest we become indifferent to these concerns, but rather that we remain mindful of how impermanence manifests here—platforms can shift overnight, and user bases can dwindle or surge without warning.
This acceptance of change can help creators prepare psychologically for abrupt transformations, avoiding undue distress when algorithm updates or policy changes disrupt their work. When guided by a calm mind, the transition can be less jarring, and forging new communities on Xiaohongshu or elsewhere becomes an occasion for learning rather than a loss.
While no simple answer has emerged regarding the legal fate of TikTok or the long-term viability of Xiaohongshu for American users, this situation underscores Buddhism’s emphasis on non-attached awareness without judgment. Adapting to a new platform is not merely a question of computing and connectivity—it also involves respect for cross-cultural dialogue and adopting a skillful approach to any potential security or censorship issues.
Community members, whether they are casual watchers or dedicated content creators, can incorporate Buddhist principles as they navigate these complex decisions—checking intentions, practicing ethical conduct, and recalling that technology is but a tool that can foster or fracture communities based on how we engage with it.
As the story of Eisai’s journey and the growth of cross-cultural Buddhism has shown, forging new paths can yield surprising benefits when approached with humility and open-heartedness. This digital pivot, while arising from political controversy, might ultimately broaden horizons and cultivate empathy across geographical lines—provided we all remain committed to mindful speech, mutual respect, and the spirit of compassionate exchange.
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Buddhistdoor View: TikTok, Shifting Platforms, and Global Community
The possibility of a United States ban on the TikTok platform, owned by the Chinese tech company ByteDance, has in recent weeks prompted many American content creators to explore other platforms. One such alternative is Xiaohongshu, often referred to in English as “Red Note,” a social media platform largely unknown outside China until now. An unexpected exodus of content creators to Xiaohongshu has given rise to the hashtag #TikTokrefugee, which has garnered millions of interactions in just a few days. According to The New York Times, many of those flocking to the new app are doing so to “show that they do not share Washington’s concerns about TikTok’s ties to China.” (The New York Times)
These digital movements offer an opportunity to consider ideas of mindfulness, interdependence, and community-building in an online context that is both filled with opportunity and excitement and at the same time filled with danger and fraught with controversy. Even if the TikTok ban does not go into effect—President-elect Trump has signaled that he will oppose it once in office, while Democratic senator Ed Markey introduced a bill this week that would delay a ban for 270 days—the social ripples caused by its proposal will indelibly alter relationships around the world.
The impetus for Americans to explore Xiaohongshu arose after legislators and commentators in Washington increased scrutiny of TikTok’s data-handling practices and potential security risks. TikTok’s popularity soared during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, with hundreds of millions of active users around the world, including about 170 million in the US. However, concerns emerged that the Chinese government could access private user data, including browsing histories and geolocation, or spread misinformation through the platform.
Facing these uncertainties, several TikTok personalities publicly encouraged their followers to download Xiaohongshu, especially after a US Supreme Court case began deliberating whether TikTok might be forcibly sold or even banned. In a matter of days, Xiaohongshu became the most-downloaded free app in Apple’s App Store in the US, with a sudden influx of Americans bridging an online gap with Chinese users. This merging of communities invites us to reflect on how people negotiate cultural differences when engaging with new technology.
According to Buddhist thought, technology itself is neither inherently harmful nor inherently beneficial. Its ethical dimension rests in the motivations and actions of users. With so many new accounts labeled #TikTokrefugee, we see the interplay of curiosity, fear, and perhaps solidarity among Americans seeking fresh online territory. In many ways, this movement underscores the principle of interdependence (Skt. pratityasamutpada), showing that we are affected by events far beyond our immediate control—such as political decisions—and that these can drastically shape our personal trajectories, even in virtual spaces.
Engaging with Xiaohongshu means acting on a platform that was never designed with Western users in mind, creating linguistic hurdles for many newcomers, who often rely on translation software to communicate with Mandarin speakers. Like travelers in a foreign land, these Americans are encountering new cultural norms, moderating their expressions, and adapting to different styles of communication. This process can lead to personal growth and cultural awareness, as one must remain acutely aware of how one’s words might be perceived and respond skillfully when faced with misunderstandings.
Such major shifts are rarely black-and-white. On the one hand, many users feel the drive to expand their horizons, meet new people, and experience digital platforms unencumbered by the controversies swirling around TikTok. On the other hand, US lawmakers and others maintain that national security concerns should not be casually dismissed. A wise approach suggests that we neither minimize these concerns nor let them overshadow the genuine human connection that can arise from conversation and cultural exchange.
Historically, the Buddhist teaching of the Middle Way (Skt. Madhyamaka) reminds us to avoid extremes—in this case, the extremes of dismissing all data-security fears or demonizing the entire concept of cross-cultural digital interactions. Engaged Buddhism in the 21st century encourages thoughtful participation, acknowledging real-world implications such as privacy breaches, misinformation, and potential censorship. Rather than discouraging the move to Xiaohongshu outright, Buddhism prompts us to consider the underlying intention of our actions, to remain vigilant about possible challenges, and to cultivate ethical principles even in a digital environment.
An ancient Buddhist anecdote may help to illustrate some of these issues. Several centuries ago, a Japanese monk named Myoan Eisai (1141–1215) traveled to China during the Song dynasty, seeking deeper knowledge of Chan Buddhism. Navigating unfamiliar languages and local customs, Eisai discovered new scriptural interpretations, meditation methods, and monastic rules that he would later adapt to his home country. Yet upon returning, Eisai encountered suspicion from officials wary of foreign influences and concerned about potential “subversive” knowledge. Nonetheless, Eisai’s engagement with another culture was neither purely dangerous nor wholly utopian—it was a balanced encounter, enriched by care and respect for differences.
This mix of danger, suspicion, and discovery can be seen in the stories of many great Buddhist travelers, translators, and masters. In the same way, Americans on Xiaohongshu may discover fresh viewpoints on everything from daily life in China to creative expressions. At the same time, they could face content moderation distinct from Western norms, a lack of English-language resources, or a rapid need for cultural sensitivity—problems that Eisai similarly confronted centuries ago. His story highlights that crossing digital or geographic boundaries can lead to growth, provided that individuals observe mindful conduct and remain open to mutual understanding.
Reports from new Xiaohongshu users show that most interactions are lighthearted, with Chinese commenters joking about being “Chinese spies,” and Americans, in jest, “offering up” personal data. While these jokes exist, underlying tensions about censorship or controlling speech can easily arise. Right speech in Buddhism guides us to speak truthfully and compassionately. Where comedic banter might mask genuine anxiety, practitioners are urged to remain open, curious, and empathetic. This approach fosters better understanding and reduces potential conflict. Indeed, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has argued that the ban must not proceed, as it “will also endanger the constitutional rights of every American to speak and receive information online.” (ACLU)
One Chinese user, identified only as Abe, wrote in a now-viral post: “For so long we really haven’t been able to connect or talk with each other like this, but now we finally can, and it feels so special.” The user continued: “This is such a real chance for us to get to know each other and maybe create something amazing together. . . . You are not just welcome here, I really, really hope you will stay.” (NPR)
For many content creators, the impetus to find a new platform is practical—they have built audiences, shaped careers around engagement, and cannot afford the risk that TikTok might suddenly vanish. This digital diaspora underscores how reliant some people are on online communities for a sense of belonging or livelihood. The Buddhist principle of non-attachment does not suggest we become indifferent to these concerns, but rather that we remain mindful of how impermanence manifests here—platforms can shift overnight, and user bases can dwindle or surge without warning.
This acceptance of change can help creators prepare psychologically for abrupt transformations, avoiding undue distress when algorithm updates or policy changes disrupt their work. When guided by a calm mind, the transition can be less jarring, and forging new communities on Xiaohongshu or elsewhere becomes an occasion for learning rather than a loss.
While no simple answer has emerged regarding the legal fate of TikTok or the long-term viability of Xiaohongshu for American users, this situation underscores Buddhism’s emphasis on non-attached awareness without judgment. Adapting to a new platform is not merely a question of computing and connectivity—it also involves respect for cross-cultural dialogue and adopting a skillful approach to any potential security or censorship issues.
Community members, whether they are casual watchers or dedicated content creators, can incorporate Buddhist principles as they navigate these complex decisions—checking intentions, practicing ethical conduct, and recalling that technology is but a tool that can foster or fracture communities based on how we engage with it.
As the story of Eisai’s journey and the growth of cross-cultural Buddhism has shown, forging new paths can yield surprising benefits when approached with humility and open-heartedness. This digital pivot, while arising from political controversy, might ultimately broaden horizons and cultivate empathy across geographical lines—provided we all remain committed to mindful speech, mutual respect, and the spirit of compassionate exchange.
See more
US TikTok users scramble, despair as Bytedance signals app shutdown (Reuters)
‘Red Note,’ a Chinese App, Is Dominating Downloads, Thanks to TikTok Users (The New York Times)
Trump will ‘put measures in place’ to stop TikTok ban, top adviser says (BBC News)
Markey introduces bill to extend TikTok ban deadline (Boston.com)
Banning TikTok is Unconstitutional. The Supreme Court Must Step In. (ACLU)
What to know about RedNote, the Chinese app that American TikTokkers are flooding (NPR)
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