Lion Dance as a Visual Symbol of Cultural and Public Diplomacy: A Theoretical and Case-Based Analysis of Soft Power, Digital Amplification, and Diasporic Agency

This article examines how Chinese lion dance functions as a visual symbol in cultural and public diplomacy and argues that its soft power potential depends on the conditions of its circulation. Drawing on theories of soft power and cultural diplomacy and on research on China’s external propaganda, the discussion compares three overlapping settings: state-sponsored performances, diaspora-led festivals and competitions, and platform-based cultural content. It considers how institutional sponsorship, community ownership, and digital distribution may shape perceptions of authenticity and the attribution of cultural appeal to China. The analysis distinguishes the visibility of a performance from evidence of improved national reputation or sustained diplomatic influence. It also treats audience size, platform engagement, and reported cultural interest as different indicators whose implications cannot be assumed to be equivalent. The cases suggest that diaspora organizations and independent performers warrant greater attention alongside official cultural programming. However, differences in reach do not by themselves demonstrate that audiences prefer one sponsor type or that state involvement necessarily reduces attraction. The article therefore presents community agency and perceived authenticity as important interpretive considerations rather than universally established causal effects. It concludes that lion dance may support cross-cultural engagement when performances are locally meaningful and accompanied by opportunities for exchange. Assessing its diplomatic contribution requires transparent evidence, attention to audience interpretation, and recognition that cultural appreciation may remain distinct from attitudes toward the state.