In recent years, Chinese popular culture has entered a state of notable tension and even contradiction: on one hand, some traditional art forms are deeply mired in crisis; on the other hand, emerging forms such as video games, online literature, short videos, and micro-dramas, albeit of varying quality, are continuously expanding their market presence. Moreover, while many fields have produced a number of works that are well-loved by the masses, a proliferation of subpar creations has led audiences to "vote with their feet," plunging the film industry into a severe downturn. This issue's cover story aims to present the complex ecology of contemporary Chinese popular culture by reviewing history, analyzing representative works, and examining industry trends, in an effort to identify an ideal direction for Chinese arts and culture suited to the present era.