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'I'd talk to the TV': The paid companions bringing warmth to China's lonely

BBC News October 13, 2026 15 views
'I'd talk to the TV': The paid companions bringing warmth to China's lonely

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Loneliness is on the rise in China, prompting a new industry to step in and offer companionship and support to those who feel isolated.

As the country’s rapid urbanisation and changing social structures have left many people without traditional family or community ties, a growing number of Chinese citizens are turning to paid companions for emotional and practical help.

These services, which range from regular visits to digital chat support, aim to fill the gap left by shrinking social networks and the increasing prevalence of single, long‑distance living arrangements.

While the industry is still in its early stages, it reflects a broader recognition of mental health and social well‑being as important public concerns in China’s fast‑moving society.

<small>Source: BBC News — read the original story there.</small>

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