Livestream Dating Gains Popularity Among Chinese Singles

A new form of digital matchmaking is emerging in China, as young singles turn to livestreamed video chats to find romantic connections – often in front of large online audiences. Faced with busy work schedules and dissatisfaction with dating apps, many are participating in livestreamed matchmaking sessions hosted by self-styled “cyber matchmakers.”

One of the most prominent figures in this space is Tian Xin, who hosts virtual group dates on Xiaohongshu (also known as RedNote), a Chinese social platform. With over 130,000 followers, Tian’s late-night video rooms feature rotating panels of participants answering questions about themselves and casually interacting, while viewers watch and comment in real time. “Empathy is the most important thing. You need to be empathetic to what people say,” she explained.

The livestreams represent a shift from traditional matchmaking methods such as arranged dates or family-run marriage markets. A 2025 report by iiMedia Research found that over 30% of young singles in China cite demanding work schedules as a barrier to dating. With long hours becoming the norm, many are turning to more dynamic, low-pressure formats like livestreamed video chats to meet potential partners.

This change in habits could provide a very clear path forward for any apps looking to break into the Chinese market, but may also be a sign that conventional dating methods could decline in coming months – depending entirely on whether or not this new trend remains a long-term switch of focus.