What is 老炮?

老炮 (Lǎopào) Explained

老炮 (Lǎopào), which roughly translates to "Old Gun" or "Old School," is a Chinese slang term that refers to a specific type of older generation Beijing man. They are typically characterized by their tough, streetwise demeanor, their adherence to traditional codes of honor and justice, and their deep connection to the old hutong (alleyway) culture of Beijing.

Key aspects of the 老炮 (Lǎopào) identity include:

• Loyalty and Brotherhood: A core value. They are fiercely loyal to their friends and will go to great lengths to protect them. The concept of <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Loyalty%20and%20Brotherhood">Loyalty and Brotherhood</a> is essential to their identity.

• Justice and Righteousness: While they might operate outside the bounds of formal law, they have a strong sense of what is right and wrong. They often see themselves as enforcers of street justice. This self-perception of <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Justice%20and%20Righteousness">Justice and Righteousness</a> is a defining trait.

• Resistance to Authority: They tend to be skeptical of authority figures and resist what they perceive as corruption or abuse of power. Their <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Resistance%20to%20Authority">Resistance to Authority</a> is a key feature.

• Nostalgia for the Past: They often lament the loss of traditional values and the rapid changes that have swept through Beijing, particularly the demolition of hutongs and the rise of materialism. The <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Nostalgia%20for%20the%20Past">Nostalgia for the Past</a> is very important for them.

• Physical Toughness and Fighting Skills: They are expected to be physically capable and willing to defend themselves and their friends. Physical <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Toughness%20and%20Fighting%20Skills">Toughness and Fighting Skills</a> can define a 老炮.

The term gained wider recognition with the 2015 film Mr. Six (老炮儿), directed by Guan Hu, which explores the clash between a 老炮 (Lǎopào) and the younger generation. This film illustrates the struggles of the 老炮 (Lǎopào) in modern China and the changing values of society.