Summary

China’s economic slowdown and high youth unemployment (16.1% as of November 2024) have left millions of highly educated graduates in low-paying or mismatched jobs, such as waiters, cleaners, or extras in films.

Fields like finance, manufacturing, and tech no longer offer sufficient opportunities, forcing many to reassess career aspirations.

Family pressures and criticisms exacerbate the situation, though some view their current roles as stepping stones toward entrepreneurial goals.

Uncertainty about the economy’s trajectory leaves many young workers feeling disillusioned and insecure.