You understand

你懂的。 (Nǐ dǒng de.): You understand.

Li Yuchun.

Paying respect to Li as one would a Daoist or Buddhist deity.

Half grass-mud horse, half Li Yuchun.

Believe in Brother Chun and receive eternal life.

Internet meme used to express mutual understanding of sensitive topics without having to mention the sensitive words. The phrase originates from online chatter about Li Yuchun, 2005 winner of China’s Super Girl singing competition. Li has attracted a cult following not just for her musical talent, but more so for her androgynous appearance. Li Yuchun has become the object of both online satire and adoring praise. She is sometimes referred to as “Brother Chun” (春哥 Chūn Gē).

Her popularity rose to such an extent that netizens began depicting her as a savior figure using Christian and Buddhist iconography. In 2010, netizens began posting a series of comments that ended with “Brother, I’m sure you understand.” For example:

Brother, I have a test next week so I want to pay my respects to you. I’m sure you understand.

My World of Warcraft account was hacked. I still think there’s time for me to start believing in you. I’m sure you understand.

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