Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rise and controversies surrounding Zhang Xuefeng, a prominent online educator in China, highlighting the tension between the influencer economy and the serious nature of the education sector [7][9]. Group 1: Background and Rise - Zhang Xuefeng, born Zhang Zibiao in 1984, is a well-known online educator who gained fame after his video on 985 universities went viral in 2016 [7]. - He transitioned from a regular training teacher to a sought-after "internet celebrity teacher" over nearly a decade, engaging in various activities including TV shows, film projects, and nationwide lectures [7][8]. Group 2: Controversies and Criticism - In 2023, Zhang made controversial remarks about liberal arts, stating that they are merely service industries, which sparked significant backlash and concerns about the impact of his views on students [9]. - Critics argue that Zhang's pragmatic yet utilitarian approach to education, discouraging students from pursuing less popular majors or remote schools, reflects a narrow view that overlooks higher ideals and aspirations [9]. - An industry expert noted that Zhang's case exemplifies the challenges within the influencer economy, where the need for constant attention clashes with the serious and often altruistic nature of education [9].

Core Insights - The number of candidates for the postgraduate entrance examination in China has been increasing over the past few years, leading to a rise in the demand for training services [1][11] - However, in recent years, the enthusiasm for the examination has declined, resulting in a decrease in training demand and a shrinking market for training institutions [1][11] - The market size of the postgraduate training industry in China is projected to reach 13.85 billion yuan in 2024, reflecting a year-on-year decline of 11.1% [1][11] Industry Overview - The postgraduate training industry provides systematic and professional guidance for candidates preparing for the national postgraduate entrance examination, aiming to enhance knowledge, exam skills, and preparation efficiency [3] - The training covers various stages, including foundational review, skill enhancement, methodology, targeted practice, and final exam preparation [3] Market Dynamics - The per capita disposable income of Chinese residents has been steadily increasing, which supports higher spending on education, including postgraduate training [5] - The number of candidates for the postgraduate examination is expected to drop to 3.88 million in 2025, a decrease of 500,000 from the previous year, indicating a significant market shift [9] Competitive Landscape - The postgraduate training market in China is highly competitive, with over a hundred participants, including major players like New Oriental, Gaotu, and Zhonggong Education [13][14] - Large educational institutions dominate the mainstream market due to their teaching resources and course development capabilities, while smaller regional institutions and online platforms target niche markets with flexible strategies [13] Industry Trends - There is a growing demand for diversified and personalized training services, moving beyond traditional subjects to include emerging fields like data science and artificial intelligence [18] - The integration of technology, such as artificial intelligence and big data, is expected to enhance the training experience by providing personalized learning paths and improving preparation efficiency [19] Regulatory Environment - The industry faces challenges such as false advertising and unqualified institutions, prompting the need for regulatory measures to ensure fair practices and protect candidates' interests [20]