Shanghai couple 'lies flat' through early retirement

With savings of 3 million yuan ($434,200), a childless couple in Shanghai has retire for good.

Ms Chen, 33, used to be a game designer, and her husband, 43, was in real estate, but both lost their jobs last year. After several failed job interviews, they gave up on their careers, Chen said in a recent video on Douyin. The couple sometimes uses the platform to share details of their life in early retirement.

With their own house and car in the outer ring of Shanghai and no mortgage, they figure they will make ends meet through management of their savings, which enables them to have a monthly income of about 10,000 yuan.

According to Chen, about 6,000 yuan will cover their bills in a month, meaning the money should support them until they reach their 70s.

Instead of raising kids, the couple prefers to enjoy their life, Chen said in a video posted on Douyin. The parents of the couple have given their support for their decision, and will not need support of their own since they have pensions.

After retirement, Chen said, they didn't need to worry about missing important messages or phone calls from work, adding their spirits and bodies are totally free.

Their decision caused a debate among netizens over whether 3 million was enough to cover their expenses through the age of 70, especially in a first-tier city like Shanghai.

Many said the sum would not be enough.

In response to the questions, Chen posted another video saying their decision was made after serious consideration. As for those who wonder what will happen if their money runs out, Chen said it was important to live in the moment and they will figure out a solution then.