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The new buzzword Laoji (老己), referring to oneself as 'my own self,' has recently gained traction among young people on Chinese social media, establishing itself as a new cultural phenomenon centered on self-love.

'Laoji' Craze: A New Trend Sweeping Chinese Youth

In recent months, Chinese social media has been inundated with the hashtag #老己 (Lǎo Jǐ, Laoji). According to videos, Chinese netizens are using Laoji to refer to themselves in the third person, treating themselves with the same fondness as an old friend. Beyond merely referring to oneself, the term is used as a way to cherish and encourage oneself. This new cultural phenomenon of self-love and self-care is spreading among the younger generation.

The Meaning of 'Laoji' and Its Everyday Use

Laoji is a neologism combining 'Lao' (老), meaning 'old friend,' and 'Ji' (己), meaning 'oneself.' It can be interpreted to mean 'me, my best friend, this very person.' Videos explain that for many young people, sending messages to themselves like 'I love you, Laoji, see you tomorrow' has become a nightly ritual to conclude their tiring day. This act of making peace and finding calm with oneself after a demanding day reflects how modern individuals care for themselves amidst their arduous daily lives.

*Source: YouTube: CGTN (2026-03-12)*

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