A Semiotic Examination of WeChat Emojis in Promoting Chinese New Year Traditions: A Theoretical Approach
List of Authors
  • Azhar Abd Jamil, Weiwei Li

Keyword
  • WeChat emojis, digital semiotics, cultural preservation, Chinese New Year, digital communication

Abstract
  • This study explores the semiotic dimensions of WeChat emojis used during Chinese New Year, examining their role in preserving and transmitting cultural traditions in digital communication. Grounded in a comprehensive semiotic framework incorporating Peirce's triadic classification, Saussure's signifier/signified distinction, and Barthes' concept of connotation, the research analyzes the cultural significance and evolving interpretations of these digital symbols. A qualitative semiotic analysis was conducted on a selected set of WeChat emojis commonly used during Chinese New Year, involving data collection and interpretation within cultural and communicative contexts. The findings reveal that WeChat emojis serve as more than decorative elements, functioning as dynamic tools for expressing cultural identity, fostering community engagement, and maintaining traditions in the digital age. Additionally, they act as modern cultural ambassadors, bridging traditional heritage with contemporary communication, though challenges such as cultural misinterpretation and evolving digital symbol meanings persist. This research has practical implications for education, marketing, and digital cultural preservation, demonstrating how emojis can be leveraged to enhance cultural engagement while aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by promoting cultural sustainability in the digital era. Contributing to the growing discourse on digital semiotics, this study highlights the critical role of visual symbols in cultural narratives within a globalized world, offering a fresh perspective on how digital communication tools support cultural heritage preservation and adaptation in contemporary society.

Reference
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