“Why Are They Doing That?” South African Woman Shares Chinese Reactions to Seeing Her Braids

• A casual outing turns into an uncomfortable moment that highlights how curiosity can sometimes cross personal boundaries without people realising it
• The clip opens up a bigger conversation about cultural differences, especially for those who have experienced life in unfamiliar environments
• People weigh in with mixed views, with some understanding the curiosity, while others question how far is too far
• Briefly News reached out to Toluwa Waju and Yaya Vungwana, both African women living in China, to better understand the reactions many locals have when they see braids

Living in a different country comes with a lot of unexpected moments, especially when you stand out without even trying. One woman shared a clip that shows just how quickly curiosity can turn into something a bit uncomfortable. It’s one of those situations that people might laugh off at first, but it actually says a lot more when you sit with it. The reactions she received left many people thinking twice.

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Content creator @faithzoe, a South African woman living in China, shared a video on 23 March 2026 showing her experience at an ice skating venue. While she was there, three women approached her, touching her skin and braids out of curiosity. She captured the moment and shared how often she gets questions about her appearance. The clip highlighted what she described as a common experience of being visibly different in a foreign country.

She explained that the curiosity often comes with questions about her hair and skin tone. While some moments are harmless, they can also feel overwhelming when they happen frequently. The video gave a glimpse into what daily life can look like when cultural differences are so visible. It wasn’t just about one moment, but a pattern she has experienced over time.

Cultural curiosity sparks conversation about boundaries

The clip by user @faithzoe resonated because it opened up a conversation around cultural exposure and awareness. For many South Africans, especially those who have travelled or lived abroad, the experience felt familiar. It also raised questions about boundaries and how curiosity can sometimes cross into discomfort.

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Mzansi had mixed reactions. Some understood that it comes from curiosity, while others felt people should know better than to touch someone without consent. Many supported her for sharing her reality, saying it’s important to speak about these experiences openly.

Toluwa told Briefly News that curiosity is often the main reason behind people’s behaviour. On people touching her hair, she said:

“Yes, many of them like to touch it to see if it’s natural. Then they ask if it’s an extension.”

She added that most of the reactions come from curiosity. However, she noted that some experiences can feel uncomfortable.

“Racism and this is because some of these Chinese people give weird looks but sometimes they’re just curious to know why you’re in their country, why you look different and use extensions.”

Yaya also shared her perspective, explaining that the reactions are largely due to lack of exposure. On why locals are fascinated by their hair, Yaya told Briefly News:

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“Chinese people touch our hair because of the shock of seeing the braids for the first time and even our normal hair.”

She explained that China is not as diverse as South Africa.

“China is not a rainbow nation like South Africa, there are few foreigners. When they see a different race it’s a shock, so is the hair.”

Yaya added that the attention can sometimes feel overwhelming.

“It’s really shocking and not easily understandable because Chinese back home are different from here… My sisters were irritated by these reactions as people even want to take photos with us. It’s like you are a celebrity.”

Watch the TikTok video below:

Here’s how netizens reacted

Nicole said:

“Knowing myself, I’d be so happy getting this much attention. 😂😭🔥”

Unknown said:

“You are a celebrity. 😎”

Sparkle said:

“My favourite place is South Korea. 🥺🥰”

BONTLE KHUMALO said:

“I don’t know, I find this so cute. 😂😍 It’s like they’re seeing a real-life doll. 🥹”

Rea_RSA said:

“The way the child walked away killed me. 😭”

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Malondi said:

“This attention is so welcoming, I’m starting to like Chinese people. 🥰”

Siba_Cyna said:

“Knowing myself, this would actually annoy me. 😩✋”

Alpha_king said:

“China, here I come. 🤣❤️”

Mohlabe Letsoalo said:

“Chinese people are just curious, my sister… nothing else.”

A$AP said:

“Imagine if you had natural afro hair. 😌🔥 Black people are so unique. 😭🔥”

3 Other Briefly News stories related to Mzansi peeps in China

• A Mzansi woman living abroad documented a moment that felt futuristic, showing how everyday life in another country can look worlds apart from home.
• A South African woman showed her hotel experience in China, where a robot delivered her food directly to her room, leaving Mzansi stunned.
• A South African man living in China gave Mzansi a glimpse into just how advanced everyday technology can be, sparking reactions.

Source: Briefly News