Hypocritical Advice on Becoming a KOL
Li Ziqi, China's most influential influencer, made a startling return to social media after a three-year hiatus, but her comeback is mired in controversy. One of her recent videos since returning has gone viral, not only for its incredible craftsmanship but because her comments in the video discourage youth from pursuing careers as KOLs.
Li Ziqi's Stunning Craftsmanship Video
On November 12, 2024, after over 1,200 days away from the small screens due to a legal dispute with her former agent, Weinian, Li Ziqi returns to the social media platforms. Her first video introduced the art of refurbishing her grandmother's wardrobe with traditional lacquer. The first video, which demonstrates the intricate art of "carved lacquer with hidden patterns," gained over 12 million followers on Douyin in one week.
Starting from the collection of sap from lacquer trees, she demonstrates each step all the way to carving and lacquering the furniture in a way that pays respect to traditional craftsmanship in China. She is now back to introducing rural life in China and sustainable living and provokes an explosion of admiration from long-time fans.
Hypocritical Advice From Li Ziqi: Never Become KOL
While the craftsmanship video fascinated millions, a year-old interview clip of Li Ziqi talking about online influencing has sparked heated debate. In the clip, Li advises young people not to be online influencers, cautioning that being a KOL is not as satisfying as it may appear and may be too commercialized.
This controversial message has caused a stir among her followers, with many labeling her advice as hypocritical. After all, Li Ziqi built her career as a KOL and amassed millions of followers across multiple platforms. Critics argue that, given her enormous success as an influencer, Li Ziqi’s remarks appear inconsistent with her own career.
Li Ziqi: A Complex Figure in the Influencer World
Li Ziqi’s return has brought both admiration and controversy. Known for her focus on traditional Chinese crafts, rural life, and self-sufficiency, she has earned a reputation as a role model for sustainable living. However, her comments on the influencer profession have left many fans divided, questioning whether she genuinely believes in her message or if it's a case of someone who has "made it" dissing the very industry that gave her fame.
Being one of China's leading influencers means she holds a place of power in the digital world, and her comments have touched off wider conversations about the stresses of online fame, seeking authenticity in an increasingly commercialized social media space, and the growth of influencer culture in China.
The Future of Li Ziqi and Influencer Careers in China
Li Ziqi's return and her attitude towards online influence create one interesting topic of conversation in the nature of fame during the digital age. With the continuous rise of the influencer landscape in China, one must be able to weigh the balance between personal fulfillment, authenticity, and commercial pursuits.
Do you agree with Li Ziqi's message to the young? Is her critique of becoming KOL hypocritical, or valid perspective on influencer industry? Leave your comments below!