[Post 1136] Why China’s Gen Z And Millennials Are Ditching the ‘Marriage Market’ For Livestream Matchmaking

Summary

A new trend is emerging in China’s high-pressure dating scene: livestream matchmaking.

On platforms like Red Note, hosts such as Ms Huo run live sessions where singles meet on camera and chat in real time. The format has struck a chord with younger singles put off by the pressure of traditional matchmaking, where the rush to get hitched dominates. Livestreams offer a looser setting, where participants can engage as much — or as little — as they want, and start with finding companionship first, before a romantic partner.

As marriage rates continue to fall, these livestreams offer a revealing look at how young Chinese are navigating modern relationships.