Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rising popularity of "ancestor money" (冥币) in overseas markets, highlighting how it has transformed from a traditional funerary item into a cross-cultural phenomenon that attracts interest and engagement from foreign audiences [10][45][47]. Group 1: Cultural Phenomenon - The trend of burning ancestor money began in 2014, when a foreign blogger introduced it as a form of "Eastern mystical power," leading to a surge in interest on overseas video platforms [10]. - Many foreign social media users believe that sending ancestor money to their ancestors can bring them good luck, with numerous testimonials claiming life-changing experiences after participating in this practice [2][4][5][8]. - The practice has evolved into a form of performance art, with various creative interpretations and rituals being adopted by foreigners, such as using tarot cards and creating elaborate altars [11][16][20]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - The village of Mibeizhuang in Hebei Province has become a significant hub for the production of ancestor money, reportedly supplying 90% of the global market [35][40]. - Mibeizhuang's residents have adapted to market demands by diversifying their product offerings, including modern items like smartphones and luxury goods, and have embraced e-commerce to reach international customers [38][41]. - The pricing of ancestor money has significantly increased in foreign markets, with prices ranging from $7 to $20, translating to a substantial markup compared to domestic prices [20][24]. Group 3: Cultural Exchange - The popularity of ancestor money abroad is attributed to the intersection of Chinese and foreign cultures, where the unfamiliar practice evokes curiosity and fascination among Western audiences [45]. - As foreign audiences gain a deeper understanding of the cultural significance behind ancestor money, they express genuine emotional connections to the practice, often using it as a means to honor and remember loved ones [46]. - The article emphasizes that the phenomenon of ancestor money's popularity abroad illustrates the unique ways in which cultural expressions can evolve and resonate across different societies [47][48].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rising popularity of "Ancestor money" (冥币) in overseas markets, particularly among foreign social media users who have embraced this aspect of Chinese culture as a form of cultural expression and ritual practice [1][24]. Group 1: Cultural Phenomenon - The trend of burning Ancestor money began in 2014, when a foreign blogger introduced it as a form of "Eastern mystical power," leading to a cultural phenomenon on social media platforms [4]. - Foreign users have created unique rituals around burning Ancestor money, incorporating local cultural elements, such as tarot cards and symbolic offerings [5][9]. - The practice has evolved into a form of performance art, with various creative interpretations and adaptations by foreign users [24]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - The village of Mibeizhuang in Hebei province has become a hub for the production of Ancestor money, dominating 90% of the global market [20]. - The price of Ancestor money has significantly increased in international markets, with prices ranging from $7 to $20, translating to a substantial markup compared to domestic prices [12]. - Mibeizhuang has adapted to market demands by producing localized versions of Ancestor money, including designs featuring local currency symbols and cultural motifs [14][22]. Group 3: Emotional Connection - The practice of burning Ancestor money serves as a means for individuals to express their emotions and maintain connections with deceased loved ones, reflecting a deep cultural significance [26][27]. - Many foreign users have shared personal stories about their experiences with Ancestor money, highlighting its role in their grieving process and emotional healing [26][27]. - The article emphasizes that the appeal of Ancestor money lies in its ability to bridge cultural gaps and provide a tangible way for people to honor their ancestors [27].