Over the past decades, China has emerged as a dominant economic and geopolitical force. Yet, its cultural impact in the world has not kept up with these developments. Considering China’s immense cultural capital, this panel seeks to explore the footprint of Chinese culture in the world today.

The discussion will explore traditional platforms such as media, educational exchanges, and language promotion, which have long contributed to shaping China’s international image and fostering global appreciation for Chinese culture. Additionally, it will delve into emerging avenues of cultural influence, including the growing presence of Chinese content in international entertainment markets and the transformative impact of social media on global perceptions of China. Finally, it also considers China’s efforts in poverty alleviation and foreign investments, which have gained significant traction, particularly in parts of the Global South.

By integrating insights into both established and emerging channels, this panel aims to offer a nuanced analysis of China’s soft power projection and cultural footprint on the global stage, especially in the Global North and Global South through a comparative lens, in order to complement the discussions on China’s economic and geopolitical prominence.