INTERNEWSTIMES.COM – China’s economic woes are pushing a generation of young people to seek refuge in the countryside. Faced with a fiercely competitive job market and a record-high youth unemployment rate, many are choosing to “retire” to rural areas, embracing a slower pace of life and a different kind of future.
This trend, fueled by a sense of disillusionment with urban life and the pressures of finding a fulfilling career, is gaining momentum. Social media platforms are filled with young Chinese documenting their rural “retirement” experiences, showcasing their self-sufficient lifestyles, and sharing their reasons for choosing a different path.
One such individual, a 22-year-old known as Wenzi Dada, left behind a series of jobs in urban areas to return to his hometown in mountainous Guizhou province. He built a simple bamboo shack on a cliff edge and embraced a life of farming and self-sufficiency. “As time goes by, I begin to think about the meaning of life,” he wrote on his social media profile. “Life is not just about the prosperity of the city. The tranquility of the countryside is also a kind of beauty.”
This trend is not surprising, given the current economic climate. China’s youth unemployment rate hit a record 18.8% in August, with a record number of college graduates entering a highly competitive job market. Many young people find themselves unable to secure jobs in their chosen fields, particularly in top-tier cities.
While some are forced to “retreat” to the countryside due to a lack of opportunities, others are actively rejecting the types of jobs available in urban areas. Many are unwilling to accept lower-paying roles in sectors like delivery or ride-hailing, choosing instead to wait for better opportunities or explore alternative paths.
The trend has sparked debate, with some criticizing these young “retirees” for being too picky or giving up. However, many are finding a sense of purpose and fulfillment in their rural lives. They are using their skills to pursue e-commerce ventures or become social media influencers, leveraging the natural beauty of the countryside to attract viewers.
While this trend of “reverse migration” is unlikely to be long-lasting, it reflects a growing sense of discontent among China’s youth and their desire for a more fulfilling lifestyle. The countryside, for now, offers a much-needed respite from the pressures of urban life, a chance to re-evaluate their priorities, and perhaps, a chance to redefine what success means in a rapidly changing world. (Red)
