Chinamaxxing: Western youth chase Chinese aesthetics as Beijing flexes soft power

The piece analyzes the viral trend of “Chinamaxxing,” where Western youths imitate Chinese routines, fashion, and tech, viewing China as increasingly cool. Experts say it reflects growing curiosity about China amid geopolitical tensions, a shift in American perception, and broader exposure via social media, though it may be more about aesthetics and curiosity than lasting political change.