Beijing: China’s growing concern over the mindset of its younger generation has come into sharp focus after the country’s intelligence agency publicly warned against the spread of the so called “lying flat” culture, describing it as a threat encouraged by foreign forces to weaken the nation’s future.
The warning, which drew attention across social media and international news platforms this week, came from China’s Ministry of State Security. The agency claimed that overseas groups and hostile foreign influences were trying to encourage Chinese youth to reject hard work, ambition, and national responsibility by promoting a low effort lifestyle online.
The term “lying flat,” known in Chinese as “tang ping,” became popular in recent years among young people who feel exhausted by extreme work pressure and rising living costs. Instead of chasing career success, expensive homes, or long working hours, supporters of the trend choose a simpler and less demanding life.
For many young Chinese citizens, the movement is not about laziness but about survival in an increasingly competitive society. Long working hours, limited job opportunities, and financial uncertainty have pushed many to question whether endless effort still guarantees a better future.
The issue has become especially sensitive as China faces economic challenges, including slower growth and concerns over youth unemployment. University graduates in particular have found it difficult to secure stable and well paying jobs despite years of education and intense competition.
The Chinese government, however, sees the trend as a danger to social stability and economic progress. In its recent comments, the Ministry of State Security accused foreign organizations and online influencers of spreading pessimistic ideas among young people. Officials argued that such attitudes could weaken national productivity and reduce confidence in the country’s development.
The ministry urged young people to reject what it called negative lifestyles and instead contribute to the nation through hard work and patriotism. It also warned citizens to remain alert to outside attempts to influence public opinion through online discussions and social media campaigns.
The unusual public statement from China’s intelligence agency has attracted global attention because the ministry traditionally operates in secrecy and rarely comments on cultural or social issues. In recent years, however, the agency has taken a more visible role online, regularly publishing warnings about espionage, national security, and ideological influence.
Analysts say the latest comments reflect the Chinese leadership’s increasing concern over public morale, especially among younger generations. Under President Xi Jinping, national security has expanded beyond military threats to include culture, education, online speech, and public attitudes.
At the same time, many observers believe the popularity of the “lying flat” movement comes mainly from domestic frustrations rather than foreign influence. Similar feelings of burnout and disappointment can be seen among young people in many countries struggling with economic uncertainty and high living costs.
Online discussions in China have also produced related expressions such as “let it rot,” which reflects a feeling of giving up on intense social competition. Authorities have reportedly increased censorship of such discussions, removing posts and limiting hashtags connected to these movements.
Despite government criticism, the conversation around work life balance and mental pressure continues to resonate with many young Chinese citizens. Some say they simply want more personal freedom, less stress, and a healthier life after years of relentless academic and workplace competition.
The debate has now become larger than a social media trend. It reflects deeper questions about modern Chinese society, the future of its economy, and the growing pressure felt by a generation caught between national expectations and personal well being.