China curbs English test retakers

If college English tests were a video game, the CET-4 (College English Test-4) would be entry-level and the CET-6, hero mode. While some players pass and move on, others keep replaying for higher scores to unlock better loot—like jobs or scholarships. So, is this drive for a high score a genuine passion for improvement, or just academic FOMO? / To thank or not to thank AI (14:28)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan

They call it "the most fake business in China,"yet it's never been more real. From the workshops of Xuchang to TikTok screens worldwide, strands of hair weave tales of labor, reinvention, and pride. We explore how lives are being changed, starting from the top. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan

The traditional bar of soap is being replaced by serums, sunscreen, and makeup. Men's grooming is in the midst of a profound transformation, with market spending reaching new heights. This evolution forces us to ask what is driving the change and how legacy brands are responding. The face of masculinity is being redefined, one skincare routine at a time. / Motivational Monday (17:34)! On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun

The October 2025 launch of a new online platform's healthcare venture marks a significant acceleration in the digital transformation of China's medical sector. This move is emblematic of a powerful, broader trend: the strategic entry of Chinese tech titans like Alibaba and JD, alongside specialized health firms, into the industry. By integrating advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, streamlined online consultations, and direct hospital services, these players are constructing comprehensive digital health ecosystems. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun

The old dream was built on ownership: a house for security, a car for status. But China's younger generation is trading that dream for a new kind of freedom. Why own things that tie you down, when you can rent a lifestyle that lifts you up? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan.

October 24th, is United Nations Day, and we're wrapping up our special series with a grand finale. Here on Round Table, Heyang is joined by Dong Xiaoman, who brings her unique insider perspective from her work with both UNOPS and the UN Youth Office. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan.

China's MICE sector is back, bigger than predicted. As the world flocks back, what's driving its stunning rebound? And how is China masterfully fusing its cultural story with business? The answers are reshaping the future of global events. / What are some of young people's complaints on museum visits(13:52)? On the show: Steve, Yushun & Fei Fei

International cooperation transcends strategic interests; it's about creating tangible improvements in people's daily lives. In the second installment of our UN 80 series, Round Table's Heyang sits down with Zhu Yixing from the UN Population Fund (UNFPA). They explore China's evolving role in global development and discuss how collaborative action is driving progress in health, gender equality, and opportunity for future generations. On the show: Steve, Yushun & Fei Fei

Remember the screech of chalk on a blackboard? In China, that sound has been replaced by the silent glow of electronic screens. This multi-billion dollar classroom upgrade promises a high-tech future for learning. But for parents, it brings a familiar worry. They fear we are sacrificing our children's eyesight for digital progress. So, is this a leap forward for education, or a step back for our kids' health? / Heart to Heart - please send your audio questions to [email protected] (16:18). On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun

Eighty years after its founding, the United Nations' mission remains as vital as ever. But is it still relevant to younger generations? In this first episode of our series commemorating the UN's 80th anniversary, Round Table's Heyang sits down with content creator Qin Qian. Leveraging his insider experience at the UN, Qin connects with China's youth through his popular social media channel. Together, they explore why this relevance is crucial and how young voices are reimagining the UN for the next generation. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun