This month saw the launch of the English edition of China National Geography (中国国家地理). Danwei has an extensive interview with editor-in-chief Yungshih Lee and international publisher Melvyn Goh:
Danwei: What do you hope to achieve with the launch of CNG?
Yungshih Lee: The mission of the magazine is “bringing China to the world” and that is exactly what we hope to achieve with the launch of this magazine. It is really amazing how China, a country with such long history, large population and landmass, and diversified cultural and natural resources, is being understood so little by the rest of the world. I hope our magazine would fill this gap by providing authentic and authoritative stories on China.Danwei: The launch issue’s focus is on Henan. Can you tell me a little bit about why you made that decision to focus it on Henan, and how you feel about the province?
YL: Henan is really where the Han culture of China began. I think it’s a great starting point for anyone who wants to understand China. There are many stories to report on Henan, ones with a great cultural significance and even the natural history is exciting. Yet Henan is often neglected by many who visit China.So the Henan issue is really a perfect example of what the magazine is about. We tell the stories of China that should be told but are missed in the Western media. These kind of stories could only come from a source with a deep understanding of the Chinese history, culture, and natural environment. This is what makes CNG unique.
A double-page spread in the launch issue of the English edition of China National Geography, picturing a Shaolin monk at the Shaolin Temple.
