Discipline and bravery are often celebrated qualities in soldiers, yet the rigorous training and effort required to cultivate these traits frequently go unnoticed. In China, a particularly unique training method involves the use of pins attached to the collars of military uniforms, a practice that has garnered attention on social media.
These pins, which puncture the soldiers’ necks whenever they tilt or bend, serve a crucial purpose: to ensure that soldiers maintain proper posture. According to a 2009 report by The New York Times, the pins are specifically utilized for soldiers who struggle with keeping their necks upright. The pain inflicted by the pins acts as a constant reminder to stay alert and disciplined.
Fact-checking website Snopes confirmed in 2019 that the viral images and videos showcasing Chinese soldiers with these collar pins are indeed authentic. Alongside this practice, other methods help soldiers maintain their posture. For instance, some soldiers wear caps backwards, requiring them to keep their necks straight to prevent the caps from falling off a balancing technique that further instills discipline.
Such rigorous training reflects a broader cultural emphasis on discipline in Chinese society, where even children are taught the importance of maintaining strict self-discipline. These practices contribute to shaping soldiers who embody the values of vigilance and discipline essential for serving their country.