China Santa Claus: how Qing dynasty military figure ‘cutified’ into ‘Father Christmas’

The once-feared Qing dynasty military commander, Oboi, is being transformed into a charming figure by young people in China, becoming a local version of Father Christmas. A recent video circulating on mainland social media showcased Oboi, portrayed by an actor, as Santa Claus at a tourist resort in Zhanjiang, in southern China’s Guangdong province. The resort was adorned with traditional Christmas decorations including artificial snowflakes, Santa hats, and festive gift boxes, which contributed...