US man gains Chinese residency after 15 years in country, learns martial arts, Taoism
An American man who has spent the last 15 years practising martial arts and Taoism in China has been granted foreign permanent residency.
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The landmark award has won widespread praise and even plaudits from China's ambassador to the US.
'Congratulations! Jake Pinnick from Kewanee, Illinois, a 16th-generation disciple of the Wudang Sanfeng martial arts lineage, has got the Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card in China!' said Ambassador Xie Fengon social media on April 6.
'The young man who came to China to pursue his Kung Fu dream at 20 is now a real master!'
Xie shared Pinnick's story before, apparently showcasing him as a good example of foreigners fascinated with Chinese culture.
Jake Pinnick performs a 'thank-you' hand gesture after receiving his permanent residency. Photo: Douyin
Pinnick came to China in 2010 at the age of 20 and has since dedicated himself to learning martial arts and Taoism at Wudang Mountain in the central province of Hubei, the Beijing Daily reported.
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