Chinese doctor quits 20-year medical career to open steamed bun shop for mental health relief

Her story mirrors a growing trend of doctors trading prestigious, high-stress medical careers for simpler lines of work

A woman in China, who dedicated over two decades to her career as a doctor, made a surprising choice three years ago to leave her profession and open a steamed stuffed bun store.

As time passed, her store not only survived but flourished in the competitive food industry, prompting her to launch a second outlet in July.

“When I was a doctor, the thought of quitting often crossed my mind. Now, running a bun shop keeps me busy and tired, but I am so happy that I can’t stop,” said Dong Min, 48, in an interview with the Changjiang Daily.

In 2023, Dong garnered significant attention after starting her steamed stuffed bun shop in Wuhan, Hubei province, after a 20-year medical career.