Hometown of DeepSeek’s founder Liang Wenfeng, Milling Village, has undergone a dramatic transformation, turning from a small rural settlement into a thriving tourist destination. This newfound fame is largely due to the immense success of DeepSeek, a leading Chinese AI company founded by Liang Wenfeng.
His remarkable journey from humble beginnings in this quiet village to becoming a prominent figure in the tech industry has captivated many, inspiring visitors to explore his roots.
As a result, Milling Village, located in Wuchuan city within the Zhanjiang prefecture of Guangdong province, is experiencing a wave of development and modernization, ushering in a new era of prosperity.
The Rise of Milling Village as a Tourist Destination
Milling Village, home to approximately 700 residents, has traditionally been a quiet community where most younger generations work in nearby shoe factories while older residents engage in agriculture.
Before its rise to prominence, the village had little industrial development, with its primary source of income coming from leasing fish ponds for a modest 10,000 yuan (US$1,400) per year. However, the immense success of DeepSeek and its founder Liang Wenfeng has put this small village on the map.
The turning point came in January when DeepSeek unveiled its cutting-edge AI product, instantly earning international recognition and positioning itself as a formidable competitor to leading American AI companies.
The launch of this revolutionary technology not only elevated Liang Wenfeng’s status but also brought unprecedented attention to his hometown. Inspired by his achievements, admirers from across China and beyond flocked to Milling Village to witness the place where his journey began.
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During the Spring Festival holiday, the village saw an astonishing 10,000 tourists arriving daily. Visitors included families, students, company employees, and tech enthusiasts, all eager to catch a glimpse of Liang Wenfeng’s childhood home and experience the village that shaped his early years.
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Some tourists even took home soil, stones, and leaves as souvenirs, reflecting the deep admiration they held for the tech entrepreneur.
The Impact of Tourism and Infrastructure Development
With such an overwhelming influx of visitors, Milling Village’s infrastructure was initially unprepared to handle the demand. Tourists frequently voiced complaints about inadequate roads, lack of proper sanitation facilities, and the overall poor condition of village amenities.
Recognizing the need for improvement, local authorities swiftly initiated a renovation project in mid-February, bringing significant changes to the village’s landscape.
The redevelopment efforts included refurbishing the external walls of 29 houses, demolishing dilapidated structures, widening roads, installing sewage systems, and planting trees to enhance the village’s aesthetics.
These improvements not only made the village more accommodating for tourists but also significantly elevated the living standards of its residents. Although the exact funding source for the renovations remains undisclosed, it is evident that the village has undergone a major facelift, making it more attractive to visitors.
Despite the positive impact, the surge in tourism has also posed challenges for the villagers. Liang Wenfeng’s family, in particular, has experienced a loss of privacy, with his grandfather resorting to keeping the front door shut for most of the day to avoid constant disturbances from tourists. The villagers, while grateful for the economic boost, have had to adapt to their once-peaceful home becoming a bustling tourist hub.
A Community Transformed and Inspired by Liang Wenfeng’s Legacy
The transformation of Milling Village goes beyond just infrastructure; it has also inspired a cultural and educational shift within the community. Recognizing the value of education in achieving success, much like Liang Wenfeng did, the villagers have established a fund to support high-achieving students.
This initiative aims to provide financial assistance and encouragement to young talents, fostering a new generation of ambitious individuals who can follow in Liang Wenfeng’s footsteps.
The success story of DeepSeek’s founder has also instilled a sense of pride among the villagers, reinforcing the belief that one’s background does not determine their destiny. Liang Wenfeng’s journey from attending a local primary school to securing a place at Zhejiang University after excelling in the Gaokao examination has become a source of inspiration for many.
His parents, both educators at the village’s primary school, have played a significant role in emphasizing the importance of education, a legacy that continues to shape the village’s younger generation.
Furthermore, the rise of Milling Village as a tourist hotspot has opened up new economic opportunities for its residents. With the steady flow of visitors, small businesses have started emerging, including local food stalls, souvenir shops, and guided tour services.
This shift has not only diversified the village’s economy but has also created jobs for locals, reducing their reliance on low-paying factory jobs and agricultural work.
While the village’s newfound fame has brought both opportunities and challenges, the overall impact of Liang Wenfeng’s success on his hometown is undeniable.
What was once an obscure rural settlement is now a place of inspiration and growth, serving as a testament to how one person’s achievements can uplift an entire community. The story of Milling Village’s transformation highlights the power of ambition, perseverance, and education in shaping a better future.