Wiki & Encyclopedia: That Year The Flowers Bloomed 1981

Jiang Xiaoyan's grandfather, a weathered and stubborn man who prioritizes immediate financial gains and his grandson's education over Xiaoyan's academic potential.

Jiang Xiaoyan's mother, who supports her daughter's education but is often overpowered by the household's poverty and the grandfather's authority.

Jiang Xiaoyan's younger brother, an average student for whom the family is willing to sacrifice Xiaoyan's college prospects to get him into a 'fast-track' junior high class.

Jiang Xiaoyan's mother. Although illiterate and seemingly harsh, she is a strong, pragmatic woman who sacrifices her own comfort to ensure her daughter can study and escape their family's cycle of poverty.

Han Chunmei's daughter and Li Ye's stepsister. She is a timid young girl who often feels caught between her mother's side of the family and the Li household.

Li Kaijian's second wife and Li Ye's stepmother. A hardworking woman who is diligent in domestic chores but faces pressure and financial demands from her biological family.

Li Ye's grandmother and the matriarch of the household. She is vocal and protective of the family's internal harmony.

Han Chunmei's father and a shrewd, manipulative elder. He attempts to guilt-trip the Li family into providing a large loan for his son's house, showing a sense of entitlement over his daughter's marital household assets.

The son of Han Chunmei's brother. An entitled and aggressive child who attempts to steal Li Ying's coat and damages it when she resists, triggering a violent physical confrontation with Li Ye.

Han Chunmei's biological daughter and Li Ye's stepsister. Initially quiet and overlooked, she shows resilience by defending her belongings from her cousin, though she is left traumatized by the bullying.

Han Chunmei's brother, referred to as 'Uncle' by the children. He is described as lacking intelligence but quick to anger when his son is involved in a conflict.

Han Chunmei's mother. She enables her son's lack of ambition and joins her husband in pressuring the Li family for money.

A nimble and energetic unemployed youth from Qingshui County who joined Li Ye's business venture to seek his fortune in the south.

A young man from Qingshui County who joined the venture to Guangzhou. Though courageous, he lacks the sophisticated business sense required for the competitive southern markets.

Han Chunmei's relative, likely her brother or nephew, who is part of the manipulative Han family that Li Ye views with contempt.

A department head at the machinery repair factory and a northern fellow-townsman of Hao Jian. He is considered a potential contact for solving railway transportation logistics.

A disabled veteran in his twenties living in the factory family quarters. He possesses a sharp gaze, military-style discipline, and significant local influence. Despite his physical handicap, he demonstrates martial proficiency with a crutch and claims to have the connections to secure low-cost wholesale goods and railway transport.

A quiet and determined student in Li Ye's group who is the first to trial Li Ye's 'self-deception' focus method.

A teacher at the school who observes the students during their exams.

An editor at Blue Sea Publishing House who recognizes Li Ye's talent and assists him in joining the provincial Writer’s Association.

A student from Liuqiao Township Middle School with a reputation as a local bully. He is cunning and vindictive, attempting to retaliate against Yan Jinbu for not allowing him to cheat during the exams.

One of Liang Dazhong's close associates and a fellow student from Liuqiao Township who acts as muscle for their group.

A member of Liang Dazhong's group of delinquents from Liuqiao Township Middle School.

Wen Leyu's older brother who travels from the capital to fetch his sister and mother. He possesses a rugged and mature appearance, works in an influential capacity, and gifts Li Ye a motorcycle as a token of appreciation.

A student associate of Liang Dazhong from Liuqiao Township.

Li Ye's relative (implied aunt figure) who is struggling financially. She is hardworking and cautious, eventually taking up Li Ye's offer to sell malt candy at local markets to support her family.

Han Chunlan's husband, described as an honest, hardworking man and an only child raised by a widowed mother. Though somewhat simple-minded, he is devoted to his wife.

One of Jin Peng's associates who manages logistics and sales. He handles the distribution of malt candy and clothing, and is responsible for testing the character of new business partners like Han Chunlan and Niu Dali.

Identified previously as Director Yao from County No. 1 Middle School. He is an experienced teacher serving as a grader for the provincial college entrance examination, where he discovers an anomaly regarding a high-scoring student's records.

A shrewd local businessman involved in the parallel import trade of motorcycles. He helps Li Ye's group obtain special permits for the border zone and is observant enough to notice Li Ye's true authority within the group.

A new recruit from Qingshui County, formerly an unemployed youth, who is eager but inexperienced in the ways of southern commerce.

A new recruit from Qingshui County and former drifter who joined the team to seek opportunities in the south.

A quiet and reserved new recruit who has some personal connection to Li Ye, though he struggles to adapt to the fast-paced business environment.

A powerful and mysterious business figure in Guangzhou who provides wholesale goods. He operates with a strictly professional southern business style, avoiding risks that don't benefit his bottom line.

A petite, 'chibi-style' young journalist with an interest in gossip and exclusive stories. She tries to interview Li Ye during the assembly by passing him notes, suspecting he has a secret girlfriend and a dramatic past.

A veteran truck driver who taught Li Ye how to drive and maintain heavy vehicles. He respects Li Ye's intelligence and driving skills.

A resourceful contact in the Provincial Capital who has transitioned into a ticket scalper, providing Li Ye with a hard sleeper train ticket.

An unidentified female passenger in the sleeper carriage sharing a compartment with Li Ye. She wears glasses and observes him with intense curiosity.

The team's accountant with over a decade of corporate experience. She is surprised by Li Ye's liberal spending habits regarding business expenses and expresses interest in learning to drive.

The class academic commissary who is strictly adherence to rules but prone to jealousy. He harbor's unrequited feelings for Zhen Rongrong and attempts to use his position in the student committee to target Li Ye for his perceived lack of discipline and romantic life.

The class monitor who attempts to mediate between Li Ye and disgruntled committee members. She is deeply impressed by Li Ye's academic talents and finds his subtle, retaliatory nature surprising.

The class advisor or teacher who intervenes in the conflict between He Dazhuang and Li Ye. She recognizes Li Ye's potential for trouble but remains fair in her assessment of the school's regulations.

An international student from Japan in the Class of '80, majoring in Chinese Language and Literature. He is wealthy, dresses fashionably, and uses gifts to influence student cadres to target his romantic rivals.

A cadre in the Student Union who accepts bribes/gifts from international students to exert pressure on other students under the guise of maintaining school spirit.

A former classmate who is now studying at a college in Chang'an and reached out to the group to apologize and maintain ties.

A local gang leader or 'fixer' in the market area. He attempts to intimidate Jin Peng and Li Ye into a predatory credit-based business deal but lacks the true capital to back his posture.

A shrewd businessman from the South who operates behind the scenes in the Silk Street market. He is skeptical of Li Ye's claims regarding the scale of their manufacturing operation.

A hot-headed local street vendor who resents the price-cutting tactics of Li Ye's group. Despite his rough exterior and poor financial state, he values loyalty and attempts to protect his friends during an ambush.

A ruthless local figure involved in the trade of smuggled or second-hand foreign clothing. He leads a large group of men to violently enforce his territory.

An employee mentioned by Jin Peng who is called in to provide extra security for the shop.

The owner of a small family-run restaurant in a Beijing alleyway. He is pragmatic and avoids getting involved in street violence to protect his business.

A classmate of Li Ye who attempts to follow him in physical training. He is impressed by Li Ye's popularity among female students and aspires to improve his fitness to match.

A female classmate who joins the group following Li Ye's morning exercises.

Huang Gang's sharp-tongued and observant younger sister. She is skeptical of her brother's boastfulness but is impressed by Wang Jianqiang's official credentials.

Huang Gang's mother, who is hospitable to Wang Jianqiang and curious about his high income.

A deputy section chief of supply and marketing at the Xicheng Department Store. He is an experienced professional in the state-owned retail sector who recognizes the changing economic landscape but feels constrained by institutional bureaucracy.

A tall and thin student from the Economics Department who participates in the high jump and jokes with Li Ye about his popularity.

A student from the Economics Department participating in the high jump along with Li Ye and Fu Lianbing.

Li Ye's dormmate in Room 209. Despite having a heavy build unsuitable for the high jump, he participates out of admiration for the athlete Zhu Jianhua.

A tall, introverted student and highly skilled high jumper who wins the competition with a height of 2.10 meters. He has received professional training.

A charismatic senior student from the Chinese Department and leader of the Dongshan Fellow Provincials Association. He is featured on the school's honor roll and is skilled at networking.

A real-life historical figure referenced in the text; a legendary Chinese high jumper and world record holder who inspired a national craze for the sport in the 1980s.

A graduate of Hong Kong University and the head of Treading Waves Literary Publishing House. Initially maintaining an air of superiority, he is eventually humbled when Li Ye reveals deep knowledge of the Hong Kong business landscape.

A third-year university student and friend of Li Ye who is working on a historical novel project. He often finds himself in academic and creative disputes with local campus poets.

A hot-tempered student and friend of Li Huaisheng who defends their creative work against critics using physical intimidation when necessary.

The son of Guan Ciying. He is impulsive, greedy, and attempts to participate in the antiques trade through deception. He lacks the patience and composure of his father, leading him to take risky gambles for quick profit.

Also known as Guan Er Daye, he is an experienced antiques expert with a deep understanding of the market's hidden rules. He possesses an exceptional eye for distinguishing authentic pieces from high-quality forgeries and maintains a calm, observant demeanor.

A Japanese businessman working under Nakamura Naoto. He is characterized by his subservient attitude toward his superiors and his persistence in trying to acquire rare Chinese antiques.

An associate of Old Song and Li Ye who is involved in the acquisition of antiques. He is cautious and meticulous, ensuring all transactions are handled in a way that protects their interests.

An experienced figure in the antiques trade who assists Li Ye. He is well-versed in the tricks of the trade and the history of various families in the capital.

A legendary craftsman known for his ability to create forged antiques that are nearly indistinguishable from original artifacts.

A student in the Mathematics Department and a resident of dorm room 209. He possesses exceptional calculation skills used to dominate card games against Li Ye.

Wen Leyu's father and a high-ranking official with significant influence. He is supportive of Li Ye's entrepreneurial spirit and offers to provide political backing if the youth's business ventures face opposition from state-run entities.

An older temporary worker at the promotion event who acts as a leader for the other local female workers. She is experienced in the nuances of state-run retail culture.

A tall female student and the campus high jump champion. She is a member of the Lone Army Literature Society and the object of Sun Xianjin's affection.

A student and the girlfriend of Li Huaisheng.

An overseas guest from Singapore interested in purchasing media rights for mainland literary works. She is generous with donations to the university but remains focused on tracking down Li Ye.

A director from the television station responsible for escorting overseas guests. He is easily frustrated by the perceived lack of discipline among university students.

A staff member or teacher at Peking University in charge of handling administrative duties and guest receptions during the summer break.

A school official who handles the mediation between the students, the literary society, and external investors like Wu Jinyuan.

Pei Wencong's younger sister, described as a 'sweet girl from the south.' She is genuinely caring toward Li Dayong and is preparing for a special admission exam to study at Peking University.

The captain of the Peking University debate team. He is confident and strategic, preparing the team for the National Junior College Debate Competition.

A member of the Peking University debate team participating in the preparations for the upcoming competition.

The brother-in-law of Jiang Xiaoyan who has reportedly left for the capital to seek his fortune.

The head of the original Changbei Machinery Factory. He represents the traditional state-owned enterprise mindset, often clashing with the new joint venture management over incentive structures and departmental control.

The Hong Kong-appointed manager of the joint venture. He is noted for his arrogant demeanor and uncompromising stance, serving as the firm representative of the investors' interests against local factory politics.

A technical professional or associate responsible for drafting research and development plans for the machinery company.

A famous Japanese actress and singer whose performance in the drama 'Akai Giwaku' captivated the Chinese public during the mid-1980s.

An associate working under Old Song who has been tailing a target named Mr. Ai. He is wary of Old Song's authority and is currently being reassigned to learn English.

A high-ranking military officer from the occupation era who obsessed over Chinese cultural relics and was famously scammed by Old Song with counterfeit antiques.

A mysterious individual with specific technical skills or knowledge that Old Song and Duo Xing are attempting to extract.

Li Ye's younger sister and a first-year student. She is observant and polite, helping Wen Leyu in the kitchen and avoiding being a 'third wheel' to the couple.

A third-year international student with a dark complexion and a formal manner. He attempts to interact with Fu Yiruo under the guise of academic discussion but is rebuked by Wen Leyu.

A famous actress who has arrived at the literature society, causing a stir among the students.

A well-known actress mentioned by students in anticipation of her possible visit to the university.

A famous actress noted for having visited the university in the previous year.

A handsome and talented thirty-year-old actor known for his role in 'The Herdsman.' He is being considered for a lead role in Li Ye's upcoming production due to his ability to portray complex emotions.

Also known as Ah Qiang, he acts as the primary producer and intermediary for Li Ye's film projects. Although he appears to be in charge to outsiders, he subordinates himself entirely to Li Ye's creative vision.

An actress brought by the Chang'an Film Studio. Despite her weary and somewhat aged appearance, she possesses extraordinary acting skills that leave Li Ye and others deeply impressed during her audition.

A prestigious high-level director in the mainland film industry. He is meticulous and serious about his craft, initially concerned about the incomplete script but impressed by its quality.

The charismatic and resourceful manager of the Beijing Computer New Technology Development Company. A skilled administrator and networker who transitioned from logistics to entrepreneurship.

A highly principled and brilliant technical expert at the peak of his career. Known for his blunt honesty and rigorous scientific approach, he is the primary talent Li Ye wishes to recruit.

A rigorous and patriotic engineer with extensive technical expertise. He prioritizes scientific truth and national development over profit, accurately assessing the difficulties of domestic computer research while advocating for program-controlled switchboards as a viable entry point.

Pei Wencong's secretary who handles administrative tasks and financial transactions during business meetings.

A talented student from the Class of '83 with a gentle temperament who is elected as the new head of the Lone Army Literature Society.

A teaching assistant at Peking University whose unwanted romantic advances and public displays of affection prompt Mu Yunning's resignation.

Han Chunmei's ex-husband and the biological father of Li Juan and Li Ying. A manipulative and shameless man who previously abandoned his wife and daughters.

The protagonist of the film 'Wreaths at the Foot of the Mountain,' a character who struggles with unfair treatment in the military.

A company commander character in the film 'Wreaths at the Foot of the Mountain,' portrayed as a martyr whose family exemplifies self-sacrifice.

A former employee of the instant noodle factory who is pregnant with Lu Zixue's child. After being abandoned by Lu Zixue and facing dismissal from her job and social ostracization, she reaches a point of suicidal despair.

Gao Xiaoyan's father and a small cadre at the Qingshui Meat Processing Plant. He is devastated by his daughter's situation and feels powerless against the Lu family's perceived influence.

The current director of the local instant noodle factory who succeeded Li Zhongfa. He dismissed Gao Xiaoyan to avoid complications with birth control quotas.

The Factory Director of Changbei Machinery Factory, also known as Factory Director Wang. He represents a dogmatic and detached management style, struggling with labor unrest and the influence of Hong Kong capital.

A business associate based in Hong Kong who coordinates with Li Ye's group.

An associate from the Hong Kong side of the business ventures.

The wife of Hao Jian, currently part of a plan to seek medical care in Hong Kong for the birth of her second child.

The rugged and influential heir of the Wen family. He exhibits a protective, 'double-standard' protective attitude toward his sister while navigating a complicated romantic dynamic with Pan Xiaoying and Ning Pingping.

A clever and formidable woman who has investigated Wen Guohua's associates. She attempts to influence business decisions regarding Ning Pingping to assert her position.

An actress currently enrolled in a refinement class at the Beijing Film Academy. She is a lead advertising model for Fenghua Clothing and played a supporting role in 'The Deserted Army Yearning for Home'.

The mother of Li Ye and Li Yue. A strong, successful woman who lives in Hong Kong and has recently reunited with her children after years of separation.

The younger sister of Li Ye and Li Yue who has been living with their mother abroad.

Fu Guiru's cousin, a self-proclaimed socialite from Malaysia. She is characterized by her arrogance, financial irresponsibility, and jealousy toward Fu Guiru's success and property.

A distinguished-looking elderly man in his seventies, also referred to as the 'Beile'. He claims to be a patriotic overseas Chinese but is recognized by Li Ye as a deceptive figure from a previous encounter with Old Song.

A resident of the Mid-levels luxury area and an acquaintance of many high-profile figures. He is knowledgeable about the local real estate market and its history.

Fu Guiyin's child, who Fu Guiyin plans to send to a British school to learn independence.

The son of Mr. Ming (the Beile). He manipulates Fu Guiyin's emotions to secure funding for their antique smuggling operation while secretly harboring contempt for her.

A prestigious Elder in the Hong Kong social circle who attempts to act as a matchmaker for Pei Wencong.

A wealthy businesswoman known for making a fortune in rosewood furniture, mentioned as a potential alternative investor for the antique deal.

A shrewd individual involved in the antique trade in the mainland who only acts when profit is guaranteed.

A local official or low-level police officer (Comrade Yao) who coordinates with Old Song to bust the smuggling ring. He helps cover for Old Song's true motives.

A high-ranking police officer and Yao Dabin's older brother who leads the raid against the antique smugglers.

Also known as the Beile or Mr. Ming. A high-ranking figure from the defunct Manchukuo regime and a war criminal responsible for historical atrocities. He attempts to pose as a returning compatriot to escape but is ultimately killed by Tan Min.

The deceased grandfather of Wei Jiaxian and former owner of the Wei Family Pawnshop in the provincial capital.

An associate of Li Ye who has traveled to Japan to inspect textile machinery.

Dayong's partner, currently traveling with him in Japan.

A high-ranking official within the department whom Yang Yumin was introduced to through Wen Qingsheng.

An actress and model for Pengcheng Factory No. 7. She struggles with her identity and social status compared to the elite families in the COFCO Compound. She had a past romantic entanglement with Wen Guohua but lacks the courage and status to confront his family.

A security guard at the COFCO Compound and a close wartime comrade of Li Ye's grandfather.

A young security guard at the COFCO Compound who has become familiar with Li Ye's car.

A steady and reliable veteran recommended by Li Ye's grandfather. He assists in managing personnel and insists on strict character assessments for recruits.

A member of Li Ye's business circle who participated in the meeting regarding the overseas recruitment.

An associate of Li Ye and his mother who manages security and logistics for their international interests.

A capable student managing Old Song's training center for extra income. He is an ambitious linguist looking for opportunities to work for exporting enterprises rather than remaining in academia.

A serious and rigid official leading the film delegation. He adheres strictly to formal and 'unwritten' rules, which leads to friction with Li Ye's family until he realizes their significant social and financial influence.

The director of the film delegation who acts as a mediator, attempting to smooth over social blunders made by Team Leader Zhou.

An opportunistic woman traveling with the delegation. She attempts to use flattery to persuade Li Ye into lending her his foreign exchange quota or acting as a courier for duty-free goods. She appears to have a close, potentially unprofessional relationship with Ma.

A translator for the delegation and Yang Yumin's roommate. He is shy and seems to be influenced or controlled by Chu Yunling.

A deputy manager in charge of film sales and promotion (referred to as Amin). She is professional and strategic, focusing on marketing the film and securing foreign exchange through media engagement.