A growing trend in China, referred to as the stand-in economy, involves young adults hiring individuals to perform various personal responsibilities. These paid substitutes handle tasks ranging from preparing meals and accompanying elderly relatives to medical appointments to managing difficult social interactions or errands. This service model is becoming popular among busy individuals who lack the time, specific skills, or emotional capacity to manage these daily obligations themselves. First highlighted by domestic media outlets in 2024, the practice reflects a shift toward outsourcing personal duties to manage the pressures of modern life. As the demand for these convenient solutions rises, the sector continues to expand, offering support for those struggling to balance professional commitments with family care and other time-consuming chores.
Source : South China Morning Post
Photo : South China Morning Post
