Peking University shared some good news about Wei Dongyi, a well-known mathematician. Recently, a video of him attracted attention because he was missing some teeth. The university assured everyone that Wei is in good health and has been facing dental issues.
For the past three years, Wei has had annual health check-ups at the university. Doctors have been monitoring his condition closely, and while he’s dealing with periodontal problems, other health results came back normal. The university has organized medical appointments for him, ensuring he gets proper care and assistance.
Peking University expressed gratitude for the public’s concern and emphasized that Wei’s privacy and lifestyle are respected. They have made arrangements to support his work and healthcare needs.
An official from the School of Mathematical Sciences stressed the importance of creating a calm environment for Wei. They hope that society can help provide a supportive space for scientists to focus on their research without distractions.
In a recent video clip posted on Douyin, a popular short-video platform in China, Wei introduced his new account, saying, "Hello everyone, I’m Wei Dongyi. This is my account.” Despite its simplicity, the four-second video has collected over 13 million likes and has drawn more than 23 million followers. Wei plans to share math-related content to encourage academic interest.
Born in 1991, Wei gained fame in high school by winning gold medals at the International Mathematical Olympiad. He completed all his studies at Peking University, which he joined as a faculty member in 2019.
In light of Wei’s popularity, it’s clear that social media is shaping how academics engage with the public. According to a recent survey by Pew Research, about 80% of young adults feel that social media platforms help bring attention to important issues. Wei’s presence online could inspire more young people to explore mathematics and sciences.
As he embarks on this new social media journey, it’s exciting to imagine how he might influence the next generation of thinkers. For more insights into the effects of social media on academic engagement, refer to studies from the National Center for Education Statistics here.