Yue-Sai Kan

Yue-Sai Kan
靳羽西
Photo by Fadil Berisha
Born
Guilin, Guangxi, China
NationalityAmerican
Other names"The Oprah of China"
Alma materBrigham Young University in Hawaii
Occupation(s)TV personality, Entrepreneur, Bestselling Author, Director of Miss Universe China
RelativesKan Wing-Lin

Yue-Sai Kan (Chinese: 靳羽西; pinyin: Jìn Yǔxī) is a Chinese-American television host, producer, author, entrepreneur and humanitarian. Renowned for her work in bridging the gap between China and the United States, she has been nicknamed "The Oprah of China".[1] People, The Observer and ABS News have called her "the most famous woman in China".[2][3]

Kan moved to New York City in 1972 and created her TV series "Looking East" which introduced Asian cultures to an American audience. In 1984, she hosted the first live broadcast from China on PBS, and later launched "One World" on China's national TV network CCTV, achieving widespread recognition in China and inspiring many to learn English and explore the world.

As an entrepreneur, Kan launched the Yue-Sai cosmetics brand in 1992, promoting a positive self-image for Chinese women and becoming a leading cosmetics company in China. In 2008, she founded the House of Yue-Sai, an East-meets-West lifestyle retail brand. She also created Yue-Sai WaWa, a line of dolls with distinct Asian features, aimed at fostering cultural pride in Asian children.

Kan is a prolific author, with nine best-selling books in China covering topics such as television production, beauty, and etiquette. She is also known for her philanthropic work, including substantial donations to the UN World Conference on Women, the creation of scholarship programs, and chairing charitable organizations. Kan has been recognized for her work with numerous awards and honors, including being featured on a government-issued Chinese postage stamp, the only living American to receive such recognition. She continues to serve as a cultural ambassador and holds positions in several international organizations.

  1. ^ Clarke, Katherine (2020-12-02). "The 'Oprah of China' Wants $28 Million for Manhattan Townhouse". Wall Street Journal. ISSN 0099-9660. Retrieved 2023-06-20.
  2. ^ Gurley, George (2001-12-10). "Society Goes Gaga for Yue-Sai, The Most Famous Woman in China". Observer. Retrieved 2023-06-20.
  3. ^ "The Conversation: The Most Famous Woman in China". ABC News. November 12, 2010. Retrieved 2023-06-20.