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Algorithmic Recommendation and Female Representation in Overseas Chinese Short Dramas

Author(s)

Zijuan Shi1, Gaofeng Luo2,*

Affiliation(s)

1School of Literature and Communication, Hunan Women’s University, Changsha, China 2School of Information Science and Engineering, Hunan Women’s University, Changsha, China *Corresponding Author

Abstract

The global expansion of Chinese short dramas has been facilitated by algorithmic recommendation and platform-based content distribution, reshaping both media circulation and female representation. Focusing on female representation in overseas Chinese short dramas, this study examines how algorithmic recommendation influences its construction and cross-cultural narrative strategies. Drawing on the framework of algorithmic recommendation, it analyzes the interaction among platform algorithms, content production, and audience engagement. The findings identify four dominant female character archetypes and demonstrate how algorithmic recommendation shapes their dissemination and audience exposure through content classification, traffic allocation, and iterative user feedback. However, platform-driven optimization also reinforces gender stereotypes, reduces narrative diversity, and intensifies cultural discount. The study argues that algorithmic recommendation actively shapes female representation rather than merely distributing content, contributing to a better understanding of the relationship between platform algorithms, gender representation, and cross-cultural digital communication.

Keywords

Chinese Short Dramas; Female Representation; Algorithmic Recommendation; Cross-Cultural Communication; Narrative Strategies

References

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