International youth campaign explores Guan Gong culture in China’s Shanxi province

TAIYUAN, Sep 22 (APP):An international communications campaign themed “Loyalty and Honor Without Borders: A Global Online Outreach Campaign was launched here, bringing together young people, overseas bloggers and journalists from China and around the world to explore the cultural legacy of Guan Gong and the contemporary values of loyalty and righteousness.

The four-day campaign has attracted foreign bloggers from six countries, including France, Russia and Thailand, along with journalists and media representatives from outlets such as China Daily Online, the People’s Daily Overseas Network, the Voice of Vietnam and others.

Guided by the Network Communication Bureau of the State Internet Information Office and the Publicity Department of the Shanxi Provincial Committee, the event is jointly organized by the Shanxi Provincial Internet Information Office, China Daily Network and the People’s Government of Yuncheng City.

Beginning in Taiyuan, the international media team traveled south through Shanxi, stopping in the ancient city of Pingyao before heading to Yuncheng, widely recognized as the hometown of Guan Gong. Through on-site visits, cultural activities and interviews, participants are exploring the historical traditions and cultural values that have shaped the region for centuries.

At Shanxi University, Chinese and international participants gathered with overseas students to take part in a traditional Guan Gong face-painting activity. Through the use of colors and artistic expression, participants explored the cultural ideals traditionally associated with Guan Gong, including loyalty, justice, compassion and courage, while creating an informal platform for cross-cultural exchange.

In the afternoon, the group visited the ancient city of Pingyao, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wearing traditional Chinese costumes, participants toured the city walls, temple and other attractions, gaining insights into the region’s traditions and the historical development of Guan Gong culture.

Organizers say the initiative aims to use culture as a bridge connecting young people across borders and encouraging dialogue between different civilizations. Through these exchanges, the campaign seeks to introduce the enduring cultural themes associated with Guan Gong to a wider international audience while presenting contemporary Shanxi through the voices and experiences of Chinese and international youth.