Young Chinese find calm through cosplayーNHK WORLD-JAPAN NEWS

Key Concepts

• 2D Culture: Refers to the growing popularity of anime, manga, and video games, particularly in China.
• Cosplay: The practice of dressing up as characters from anime, manga, or video games.
• Drangyang (妆娘): Chinese term for makeup artists specializing in cosplay makeup, often working at events or via social media.
• Experiential Cosplay: A newer trend where individuals pay to have immersive cosplay experiences, often involving interactions with cosplayers portraying desired characters.
• Emotional Healing: The psychological benefit derived from engaging with 2D culture and cosplay, offering an escape from real-world pressures.

The Rise of 2D Culture and Cosplay in China

The video details the burgeoning popularity of “2D culture” – encompassing anime, manga, and video games – in China, and specifically focuses on the growth of cosplay as a significant component of this trend. This isn’t merely a hobby; it’s evolving into a substantial economic and social phenomenon, evidenced by dedicated shopping malls, specialized services, and a thriving online community. The increasing success of domestically produced Chinese games is a key driver of this growth, expanding the market and providing fresh content for fans.

Cosplay as a Social and Emotional Outlet

Cosplay is presented not just as a form of self-expression, but as a crucial coping mechanism for young people navigating the pressures of modern life. Moi, a cosplayer featured in the video, explicitly states that cosplay helps her “relieve stress from work” and allows her to “make friends.” This highlights the social aspect of the hobby, fostering community and connection. The video emphasizes that for many, cosplay provides a sense of belonging and a space to explore identity.

The Emergence of Specialized Services: Drangyang

The growing demand for cosplay has spurred the development of specialized services. The video introduces “drangyang” (妆娘), or makeup girls, who provide professional cosplay makeup services. These artists, often found at anime and game events, are increasingly gaining recognition and employment through social media platforms. A drangyang interviewed reports receiving approximately “10 requests a month,” demonstrating a viable, albeit supplementary, income stream. Basic makeup services are accessible, with options available for around $12 or less, making cosplay more approachable for beginners. The parent interviewed notes that professional makeup is “part of the cosplay industry,” acknowledging its importance and professionalization.

Experiential Cosplay: A New Frontier

Beyond simply dressing up, a new trend – “experiential cosplay” – is gaining traction. This involves paying for immersive experiences with cosplayers who portray characters from popular games or anime. Yuki, a Beijing office worker, exemplifies this trend. She arranges “dates” with cosplayers portraying her favorite male characters from a Chinese romance game, even specifying the outfit they should wear. This system, facilitated by social media, represents a significant evolution in the cosplay landscape, transforming it into a paid service and blurring the lines between fantasy and reality. Yuki explains that this allows her to “fulfill [her] wish of being with [her] favorite character in real life” and feel “more secure,” highlighting the emotional fulfillment derived from these experiences.

Psychological Motivations and the Appeal of 2D Culture

The video posits that the increasing appeal of 2D culture stems from a desire for “healing” in a world “full of hardships.” The ability to “empathize with the other person as a character” is presented as a key benefit, offering emotional comfort and a temporary escape from real-world anxieties. The video explicitly states that today’s young people “highly value emotions,” and that cosplay provides a “welcome way to escape the stress of competitive life.” This suggests that 2D culture and cosplay are not merely frivolous hobbies, but rather vital outlets for emotional well-being in a demanding society.

Conclusion

The video demonstrates that 2D culture and cosplay in China are experiencing rapid growth, evolving beyond simple fandom into a complex ecosystem of commerce, social interaction, and emotional support. The emergence of specialized services like drangyang and the innovative trend of experiential cosplay highlight the adaptability and economic potential of this cultural phenomenon. Ultimately, the video argues that the enduring appeal of 2D culture lies in its ability to provide solace, connection, and a much-needed escape from the pressures of modern life.