Facing a youth unemployment rate that reached 21.3% in June 2023, some Chinese youths are renting office spaces for 30 to 50 yuan per day to simulate working environments, including desks, lunch facilities, and even staged managerial roles, to conceal their joblessness from family and friends.

This trend has sparked debate online, with supporters viewing it as a coping mechanism to alleviate the psychological burden of unemployment, while critics argue it promotes escapism and delays genuine job-seeking efforts.

In Hebei province, a service offers office access from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., including lunch, for 29.9 yuan per day, allowing individuals to 'work' and maintain appearances.