Fast-food fandom

Kids' meals are no longer just for kids — just ask the 20-somethings lining up at KFC and McDonald's in China. But they're not there for the nuggets or fries — they're after the toys.

On Xiaohongshu (RedNote), a popular lifestyle platform in China, topics like "KFC toys" and "McDonald's toys" have garnered 320 million and 270 million views, respectively.

Online discussions range from bloggers tracking the latest toy releases to users sharing strategies for acquiring the most sought-after collectibles. Some enthusiasts even post unboxing videos to showcase their latest finds.

Although this isn't a new trend, excitement peaks every International Children's Day, when fast-food chains release limited-edition toys that send young adults into a frenzy.

This year, creative Gen Zers have taken it a step further by transforming these "cute but impractical "toys into functional everyday items. On Xiaohongshu, users showcase DIY projects such as turning a KFC x Sanrio water bottle into a soap dispenser or converting McDonald's toy bumper cars into movable pet food bowls.

"These toys are my emotional comfort," said one user, proudly displaying a cabinet filled with McDonald's collectibles.

Paw of peace

If you've recently searched for "King Charles" on social media, you might not find historical monarchs — but instead, a medium-sized, shaggy-haired white dog from China.

King Charles is a Xiasi dog, a traditional hunting breed native to Guizhou province in Southwest China. Known for their courage, loyalty, and obedience, Xiasi dogs have long been trusted protectors in local communities.

In viral videos, this canine star calmly breaks up chaotic dog fights. Without barking or chasing, he gently places his paw on the muzzles of the troublemakers — even those much larger than him — immediately restoring peace. His real name is Changmao, meaning "long hair", but international viewers affectionately call him "King Charles".

The videos were originally posted by a content creator on Douyin, the Chinese version of TikTok, who documents the dogs at his private shelter in North China's Hebei province. Among the pack, King Charles clearly commands respect.

Once these clips began circulating internationally, they quickly went viral. Local media in Guizhou reports that the videos have now amassed over 300 million views worldwide, inspiring fan content in more than 20 languages.

"I've never seen a dog bow to another dog," one TikTok user commented, amused by a black Cane Corso submitting to King Charles.

The breed is now gaining broader attention. Recently, another Xiasi dog named Xiaobailong, or "little white dragon", made history as the first of its kind to be certified as a police dog in Kaili, Guizhou.