Chinese Pepe's Unexpected Rise: From Alt-Right to Sang Culture

Pepe's Unexpected Journey to China Imagine a cartoon frog, Pepe, initially associated with controversial online groups in the US, unexpectedly becoming a mega-hit in China. This isn't just another viral meme; it's a fascinating case study in cross-cultural meme diffusion, demonstrating how a symbol's meaning radically transforms across different cultural contexts. This article explores Pepe's journey from online fringe icon to beloved Chinese internet sensation, analyzing its cultural adaptation, commercial success, and the inherent risks and opportunities presented by its unexpected popularity....

February 10, 2025 · 4 min · 653 words · Hermina Breitenbach