Young Chinese are ‘retiring’ in the countryside as China’s unemployment woes grate

Young people in China are turning to rural areas as they struggle to find jobs in the challenging economic climate. Many are documenting their “retirement” lives on social media after quitting or being laid off. The high competition in the job market, particularly for recent college graduates, has led to an increase in youth unemployment. Despite criticism, these young retirees are finding ways to make a living, such as through e-commerce or social media. Some establishments are even catering to this trend with “youth nursing homes.” While retreating to the countryside may provide a temporary escape, experts believe that ultimately, these young individuals will aim to return to the city. In rural China, young people are not finding the modern lifestyle, healthcare, and education opportunities they desire. Wang believes that the current trend of young people returning to rural areas will not last long term, as their ultimate goal is still to live in the city.