While youth unemployment in China remains above 14%, the number of unusual services — “fake offices” — is increasing in major cities. In these places, unemployed people, without doing real work, pay to spend the day in an office environment.
In the city of Dongguan, a business called “Pretend To Work Company” operates as one of these venues. Attendees pay 30–50 yuan per day. Some dedicate their free time to their own projects, while others try to appear “working” due to university requirements or pressure from parents.
Such offices have also appeared in Shenzhen, Shanghai, Wuhan, and other cities. Most are equipped with computers, internet, meeting rooms, and rest areas. Sometimes the daily fee includes lunch and drinks.
Experts explain this phenomenon as a mismatch between the education system and the labor market. Some see it as temporary psychological support for young people — a way to feel useful.
At the same time, some participants aim to find real jobs by improving their skills. For example, Shui Zhou is developing his knowledge in artificial intelligence and believes this will help him transition to a real job in the future.
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