TV shows about idioms examine the question of character

The popularity of TV programs that highlight the enduring appeal of Chinese characters will rekindle interest in traditional culture, specialists and media experts believe.

"Traditional Chinese culture and Chinese values are gaining currency because of these programs," said Li Bo, professor of Chinese literature at Nanjing Normal University.

Li's comments were made at a Beijing seminar that examined the success of Chinese Idiom Congress, a weekly TV quiz program on China Central Television.