Meet our LOVers - Yi Liu
LOVers are our ambassadors. They strengthen the LOV story by helping to spread the LOV and to build a better Leuven & Beyond. No LOV 2030 without our LOVers!
Who are you?
I’m Yi, an international student at KU Leuven. I come from Shanghai, China.
I’m currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Cultural Studies. In my Master’s research, I focus on the glocalisation of a new internet aesthetic known as 'Dreamcore'. Dreamcore is a surreal, nostalgia-driven visual style that emerged with the rise of short video platforms.
While it originated in Western digital culture, I’m particularly interested in how it has been adapted and transformed as it spreads to Chinese short video platforms. Through the lens of collective cultural memory, I examine how this aesthetic is reshaped in local Chinese contexts. I find it fascinating because it reflects how global digital trends are not simply consumed but reinterpreted in different cultural environments.
Why did you become a LOVer?
I really love the city of Leuven. Joining LOV2030, felt like the perfect chance to give something back to the city that has given me so much during my stay.
During my internship at LOV2030, I focused on researching past European Capital of Culture bid books. My task was to contribute insights from an international student's perspective, offering a more diverse and intercultural angle to our team discussions. I really enjoyed the process of exploring unfamiliar European cities with a research purpose that is totally different from a sightseeing purpose.
One of the most memorable parts was the city of Bodø (Norway), which I had briefly visited before as a tourist. This time, I studied Bodø through the lens of cultural strategy, which gave me a completely different emotional connection to the city. It felt like seeing it again, but much more special to me.
What does LOV mean to you?
To me, LOV is about building friendships, exchanging cultures, and having fun while making Leuven more vibrant together.
LOV is all about new encouters. Who did you meet during your stay in Leuven who gave you a LOVely feeling?
There’s a small café I often visit in Leuven. One of the guys working there always gives me a warm and sincere LOVely feeling. We don’t even know each other’s names, but somehow it already feels like friendship. One day, after I paid and left, I accidentally left my phone on the table. He ran several blocks, still in his apron, to return it to me. I was genuinely touched.
When was the last time you were astonished by nature?
In late April, I visited the famous Hallerbos forest to see the blooming bluebells. Hiking through the serene, purple-hued forest in the early morning completely immersed me in the quiet magic of nature.
Do you think art and culture can contribute to more connection?
Definitely. I think art and culture create shared experiences that make it easier to connect with new people. They also help us communicate across language barriers and understand each other better!
What is your favorite LOVely place in Leuven & beyond?
The library tower in Leuven is a true favorite of mine! I once joined a guided tour that ended with a live carillon concert by Luc Rombouts. Watching the sunset over the city while listening to his music was truly enjoyable.
I was also delighted to learn more about Leuven’s history. Luc told me he sometimes plays melodies from around the world, including the well-known Chinese folk song Jasmine Flower. This cultural connection, so far from home, warmed my heart.
What do you hope for 2030?
I hope Leuven continues to stay charming just as it is now. Whether or not it is selected as the European Capital of Culture, this is a good chance for us to let more people from around the world know and appreciate this city.
Any final LOVely thoughts you'd like to leave us with?
LOV reminds me that even small moments—like a stranger returning your phone, or hearing a familiar melody in an unexpected place—can create lifelong memories. Let’s keep cherishing those little things that make life in Leuven so LOVely.
