Communications in Humanities Research ISSN: 2753-7072
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Research Article

From Algorithmic Localization to Cultural Reconstruction: A Study on the Communication Mechanism of TikTok in the Chinese Context

Yulu SongBeijing Jiaotong University (Weihai Campus)*

* Corresponding author: [email protected]

Abstract

This study focuses on how Douyin, a short video platform in mainland China under ByteDance, uses algorithm localization to reconstruct cultural sovereignty. Douyin shares the same core technology as its international version, TikTok, but due to localization needs, it has formed a completely different cultural ecosystem, making it the most powerful digital cultural dissemination field in China today. This study employed a mixed methodology to analyze 500 popular videos from both Douyin and TikTok be-tween 2024 and 2025. The results showed that content on Douyin comprised 65% of the content, had a click-through rate 30% higher, and a viewing time 15% longer. Video examples such as the "Hanfu Challenge" have achieved hundreds of millions of interactions on Douyin, effectively strengthening national identity and cultural cohesion. The study proposes that Douyin has adopted a process of "technological compliance - cultural translation - value resonance", which has constructed a three-layer model. The author points out that Douyin has reshaped China's discourse power in the digital space through this path. In conclusion, based on the drawbacks of the platform and mechanisms identified in the research, the authors recommend that platforms enhance algorithmic transparency to promote the dissemination and development of a more inclusive local culture.

Keywords: Algorithm Localization; Reconstruction of Cultural Sovereignty; Douyin; Tiktok; Short Video Dissemination.
Published: January 26, 2026
DOI: 10.54254/2753-7064/2026.HT31445
Volume: CHR Vol.102
pp. 98-103
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