In search of real live

Truth matters

Wang observed that with the rise of AI-generated content in recent years, authenticity has become increasingly rare — and therefore more valuable.

"As artificial intelligence advances, people care more and more about what is genuine online," he said.

This hunger for truth is why Mo's camera always seeks to capture what lies beneath the surface. Some viewers question why influencers — often perceived as successful — still choose to reveal vulnerability.

"I don't see it as exploiting suffering," Mo explained. "Suffering is simply part of who they are."

For young audiences watching on the other side of the screen, this raw honesty offers emotional validation and comfort.

Wu shared that seeing even successful influencers struggle with strict parents or appearance anxiety made him feel understood.

"It's a relief," Wu said. "It shows me I'm not alone in feeling this way."

Mo added that influencers are often more relatable than traditional celebrities or sports stars, who are admired for their exceptional talent or appearance. Many creators on short-video platforms, by contrast,"are ordinary people navigating the challenges of everyday life".

"No matter the era, there has always been a deep need for real emotion," Mo said.