Nestled in the quiet countryside of southern China, Milling Village was once a sleepy rural community known only for its fish ponds and agricultural fields. But today, it’s a bustling tourist hotspot, drawing thousands of visitors daily—all thanks to one man: Liang Wenfeng, the visionary founder of the groundbreaking AI company, DeepSeek.
Liang’s journey from this humble village to the forefront of global AI innovation has captivated the world. And now, his hometown is reaping the rewards of his success. What was once a forgotten corner of Guangdong province has transformed into a must-visit destination, inspiring locals and attracting curious travelers from across the globe.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Fame
Liang Wenfeng, 40, was born and raised in Milling Village, a tight-knit community of just over 700 residents. His parents, both teachers at the local primary school, instilled in him a love for learning from an early age. After excelling at Wuchuan No. 1 Middle School, Liang’s academic brilliance earned him a spot at Zhejiang University in 2002, where he began his journey into the world of technology.
Fast forward to January 2024, when DeepSeek, Liang’s AI company, unveiled a cutting-edge product that rivaled established American tech giants. The announcement catapulted Liang into the global spotlight—and put Milling Village on the map. Almost overnight, the village became a pilgrimage site for admirers eager to see where the AI genius began his extraordinary journey.
A Village Transformed
Before Liang’s rise to fame, Milling Village had little industrial development. Its primary source of income came from leasing fish ponds for a modest 10,000 yuan (about $1,400) per year. But as news of Liang’s success spread, tourists began flocking to the village in droves. During the recent Spring Festival holiday, Milling Village welcomed an astonishing 10,000 visitors daily.
The sudden influx of tourists brought both opportunities and challenges. Locals, who once relied on farming or nearby shoe factories for income, found themselves at the center of an unexpected economic boom. However, the village’s infrastructure struggled to keep up. Visitors complained about poor conditions, prompting local authorities to launch a major renovation project in mid-February.
A Fresh New Look
With funding from undisclosed sources, the village underwent a rapid transformation. The exteriors of 29 homes were refurbished, dilapidated buildings were demolished, roads were widened, and modern sewage systems were installed. Trees were planted to enhance the village’s charm, giving it a fresh, picturesque appeal.
But the changes haven’t come without challenges. Liang Wenfeng’s grandfather, for instance, has had to keep his front door closed for much of the day to avoid the constant stream of tourists eager to catch a glimpse of the family’s four-story home. “Some visitors took away a pile of soil, some stones, or pieces of leaves,” shared a local resident, highlighting the unusual demands of the village’s newfound fame.
A Legacy of Inspiration
Despite the challenges, the villagers are deeply grateful to Liang Wenfeng. His success has not only put Milling Village on the map but also inspired the community to dream bigger. Inspired by Liang’s achievements, the village has established a fund to support high-achieving students, ensuring that his legacy continues to inspire future generations.
Today, Milling Village stands as a testament to the power of ambition, innovation, and the enduring connection between one’s roots and their rise to greatness. From a quiet rural community to a thriving tourist destination, the village’s transformation is a story of hope, resilience, and the incredible impact of one man’s vision.