DeepSeek founder’s small village sees unexpected tourist boom; visitors take unusual souvenirs

AI DeepSeek founder Liang Wenfeng's fame has brought his village a new wave of recognition, transforming it into an emerging hub of curiosity, and tourism. Mililing, a modest and unassuming village in southern China, suddenly finds itself in the spotlight. The 40-year-old businessman, who founded the artificial intelligence firm DeepSeek, has not only established himself in the IT industry, but has also unintentionally made his hometown a surprising destination for tourists.
Liang's story is one of perseverance and academic achievement. Before moving on to the renowned Wuchuan No. 1 Middle School, he attended Mililing's modest primary school. Both of his parents taught at elementary schools. His efforts paid off in 2002 when he passed the notoriously difficult gaokao examinations and was accepted to Zhejiang University. His accomplishments have now aroused interest in his modest upbringing, attracting thousands of tourists wanting to see the AI prodigy's origins.
Since January, Mililing has witnessed a surge in tourism, with company employees, families, and curious onlookers making their way to the village. The influx reached its peak during the Spring Festival holiday, between January 29 and February 10, when the village saw an astonishing 10,000 visitors per day.
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But the newfound fame has come with some difficulties too. The village with a population of around 700 and an economy dependent on agriculture and shoe production, Mililing was unable to deal with the unexpected influx of tourists. Complaints started to pour in, with regard to inadequate infrastructure, after which local authorities sprang into action. Reports add that the village was thoroughly cleaned, sewage systems were put in place, and roads were widened. As many as 29 homes had their facades renovated, while dilapidated buildings were removed. In short, the village transformed its appearance, by the planting of trees, which further increased its allure for tourists.
However, not every local has embraced the change. As the sole resident of the family's four-story home, Liang's grandfather is now overburdened by the steady stream of visitors. He mostly spends his day with his doors locked, so that he can avoid people and intrusion. The village is also witnessing unusual instances of tourists stealing soil, stones, and even leaves in search of souvenirs.
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Mililing's quick ascent to prominence serves as a reminder of the unexpected repercussions of fast celebrity. A once-quiet hamlet is given both opportunity and disruption as the town relishes its moment in the spotlight, but it also serves as a reminder of how sudden attention may change the lives of those who follow.