Hi L,
We’re so glad to hear that you’re enjoying our podcast! Great observation about how “Lí-hó” is primarily heard when meeting for the first time. It’s still used among young people, but perhaps another way to look at how it’s used is that it’s reserved for when there is still a polite distance between people. So, even after a first meeting with someone, if the relationship doesn’t develop any more deeply (acquaintances, neighbors, shop keepers, clients, etc.), “Lí-hó” can still be used as a greeting.

If the relationship does develop, then often a standard greeting is done away with altogether. So, instead you might say, “Lí lâi–ah!” (Oh, you’re here!), or the conversation just continues from where it left off the last time you saw each other. Basically, there’s no longer a need for formalities.