Famed names make fresh impression

By Mu Qian (China Daily)
Updated: 2009-09-30 08:38

Chinese people have not had to declare their family background on registration forms for 40 years, but that has not switched off the public's interest in the heritage of their peers.

In addition to the much talked about "rich second generation" and the "poor second generation", a "red third generation" is emerging.

The relatively small group comprises the grandchildren of New China's first top officials and is getting much attention.

Typically, people in the "red third generation" were born after the "reform and opening-up". Many were educated abroad. And most are embarking on their careers.

Famed names make fresh impression

Among the better-known members of the group is Bo Guagua, grandson of former vice-premier Bo Yibo (1908-2007) and son of former Commerce Minister Bo Xilai. Wan Baobao, granddaughter of former Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, Wan Li, is another member, as is Ye Mingzi, granddaughter of Ye Jianying (1897-1986), who was one of the "Ten Great Marshals" of China. [More about red scions, about Wan Baobao, about Bo Guagua, about Ye Mingzi]

Wan is a jewelry designer with her own brand, Bao Bao Wan Fine Jewelry. Ye is a fashion designer. Bo is a student at Oxford University with aspirations to work in the culture sector.[More aboutred scions, aboutWan Baobao, aboutBo Guagua, aboutYe Mingzi]

"I don't have to be a politician to contribute to society," said 22-year-old Bo, who received the Big Ben Award for Top 10 Outstanding Chinese Young Persons in the UK in May. "I think culture and education are particularly important for today's China and it is an area I believe I can contribute to."

Wan has a strong interest in jewelry and feels fortunate to combine her interest with her work. Having studied literature and photography in the United States and France, she started her own jewelry brand two years ago and is often at Beijing's most fashionable parties.

Family influence is important in the "red third generation", which grew up listening to revolutionary stories from their parents and grandparents.

"I believe in the ideal of 'serving the people', and this in no way compromises my own personal pursuits," said Bo. "Because the two are one for me."

Ye says she feels great pride and love for China and is delighted that her grandfather played a crucial role in ending the "cultural revolution" (1966-76) and in elevating Deng Xiaoping and the reforms.

"This 60th anniversary is, in part, a progress report on the plans and directions they helped chart. Quite incredible progress, far beyond their own dreams, I think," Ye wrote in an e-mail to China Daily.

"Although some people are mainly interested in me because of my family background, most fashion magazines run articles that focus on my career as a designer."

Bo also sees disadvantages in being a member of the "red third generation".

"I'm honored to be a member of my family and I never try to hide it, but I hope people won't see me with bias," he said.

"Very often, I need to work harder than others in order to get recognition."