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Insights

Chinese news & insights

Short, sourced summaries on Chinese language, culture and opportunities.

EducationPublished:

HSK 3.0: the Chinese proficiency test moves to nine levels

Chinese Testing International has upgraded the HSK from six levels to a “Three Stages, Nine Levels” framework: elementary (1–3), intermediate (4–6) and advanced (7–9). A global pilot of the new HSK 1–6 began on 31 January 2026, with HSK 3–6 candidates also taking a matching speaking test.

What it means for you: regular HSK 3.0 sittings are scheduled from 13 December 2026. Tell us which version and date you’ve registered for and we’ll plan lessons around those requirements.

Source: CCTV News via Guangming Online (光明网) — 中文水平考试HSK3.0来了！全球试行启动 19日起报名 (opens in a new tab) Also see: Chinese Testing International (CTI) — About HSK — “Three Stages, Nine Levels” (opens in a new tab)
Culture & entertainmentPublished:

A Chinese drama reaches No. 2 on Netflix’s global non-English chart

Netflix reported that the workplace romance The Early Spring (早春晴朗) debuted at No. 2 on its global non-English TV list for 24–30 August 2026, with 2.4 million views, entering the weekly Top 10 in 22 markets.

Why it matters: Chinese dramas are reaching global audiences — and they’re a natural way to train your ear. The Early Spring is part of our Limited-Time C-Drama Special.

Source: Netflix Newsroom — 'The Early Spring' Blooms at No. 2 on Netflix's Global Non-English TV List (opens in a new tab)
OpportunitiesPublished:

210 million people are learning Chinese worldwide

CGTN reports that China’s Center for Language Education and Cooperation counted 210 million Chinese learners worldwide, while Ethnologue lists 1.18 billion Mandarin speakers. Annual HSK participation reached 810,000 in 2025.

Why it matters: Mandarin skills are increasingly valued for study, travel and careers that connect with Chinese-speaking communities.

Source: CGTN — Who's learning Mandarin? 210 million learners globally, celebrity kids and more (opens in a new tab)

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