“Dirty Models”: The Price of Easy Money in China’s Trendy Social Circles

Alex Lew, CFA
Oriental Review
Published in
4 min readMar 19, 2023

It’s a trend that’s been making waves in certain circles in China: the rise of “peripheral girls,” also known as “dirty models.” These women often have legitimate jobs as models or actresses, but use their status to attract clients for sexual services. The promise of easy money lures many into this lifestyle, but at what cost?

Potential clients must pay an entry fee to gain access to the exclusive social circles where these women operate. Once inside, they are presented with a selection of women who have uploaded fabricated resumes, photos, and news articles about themselves to enhance their appeal. But the reality of their work is often far from glamorous, as these women are subject to abuse and harassment by clients with dangerous sexual preferences.

To cope with the demands of their work, some women turn to drugs like sexual enhancers, which can have serious long-term health consequences. And yet, the income potential for these women can be immense, with some earning up to 200,000 yuan in a single night. They live a life of luxury, traveling to exotic locations and indulging in expensive hobbies. But the toll on their physical and emotional well-being can be immense, and many find it difficult to leave the profession once they have entered it.

The women who engage in this profession often have to constantly maintain their appearance to meet the demands of their clients. This creates a culture of competition and comparison among the women, where physical appearance and financial status are highly valued. But what drives this trend? Is it a symptom of broader societal problems, such as income inequality or the objectification of women?

As a society, it’s important to examine the factors that contribute to this trend and take action. This includes providing alternative sources of income for those who feel they have no other options, and supporting those who wish to leave this profession and reintegrate into society. The cost of easy money can be high, but it doesn’t have to be the only option for these women.

It’s clear that there are underlying issues at play here, and we must take a closer look at what they are. For one, income inequality is a major factor that contributes to the rise of “peripheral girls.” Many of these women come from low-income backgrounds and see this profession as their only way out of poverty. This highlights the need for greater economic opportunities and support for marginalized communities.

Another issue is the objectification of women, which is deeply ingrained in our culture. The idea that women’s bodies can be commodified and sold is a dangerous and damaging one, and it’s something that needs to be challenged and changed. We need to work towards creating a society where women are valued for their intelligence, skills, and character, rather than just their looks.

Ultimately, the rise of “peripheral girls” is a complex issue that requires careful consideration and action. We must work towards creating a society that provides equal opportunities and support for all, and where women are valued for who they are rather than just their physical appearance. Only then can we hope to address this trend and its underlying causes truly.

Case study 1: In a previous case, a suspect named Liu used her “periphery girl” identity not only to engage in flesh trading herself but also to introduce others to do the same, earning as much as 50,000 yuan per transaction. One of her clients, Qiu, from Taizhou, Jiangsu, spent over two million yuan in half a year.

Case study 2: Huomou, 22 years old this year, said she has been in the periphery circle for almost two years. A few months ago, she had just graduated from a regular school in Gansu Province. She rarely sees her parents and lacks family care and management. Coupled with her admiration for vanity, she went down this path after graduation. To solicit business and increase prices, she specially did plastic surgery to transform herself into a celebrity face.

Interview: According to Qiu’s confession, Liu told him that these girls were second or third-line female stars, or some famous female actors. However, according to Liu’s confession, the identities of these periphery girls were fabricated. Huomou, 22 years old this year, said that she has been in the periphery circle for almost two years. A few months ago, she had just graduated from a normal school in Gansu Province. She rarely sees her parents and lacks family care and management. Coupled with her admiration for vanity, she went down this path after graduation. To solicit business and increase prices, she specially did plastic surgery to transform herself into a celebrity face.

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