Vincent's parents 'never say he's good enough' - so he turned to a middle-aged couple online (opens original article in a new tab)

Young Chinese like Vincent Zhang turn to online 'virtual parents' for emotional support, as they face pressure from family expectations and economic challenges.

• Vincent Zhang uses online 'virtual parents' for emotional support due to strained relationships with his real parents.
• The 'virtual parents' on Douyin have nearly two million followers and provide comfort to young Chinese facing family pressures and economic stress.
• Many young Chinese feel burnt out from academic and career pressures, leading to a trend of seeking emotional support online and using memes to cope.