controversy

Singer Wangzai Xiaoqiao issued an apology amidst controversy surrounding a planned masked concert and claims about the original performer of the song “Nian Lun.” Xiaoqiao asserted Zhang Bi-chen, not Wan Su-long, was the original singer. Acknowledging public influence, Xiaoqiao accepted criticism and pledged to be more cautious and convey positive energy. The apology included commitments to improve public awareness, raise standards for future appearances, and remain open to criticism following this “wake-up call.”

OpenAI’s claim of achieving an IMO gold medal with a new model has sparked controversy. IMO officials and academics criticize the premature announcement as “rude and inappropriate”, as it violates the agreed-upon embargo period. Concerns are raised regarding the legitimacy of OpenAI’s self-proclaimed gold medal, as it was not officially validated by IMO judges; OpenAI was not an official collaborator and their submission was not evaluated by the 91 IMO judges. China secured the top spot in the human competition, highlighting their dominance in the field.

Kanye West’s Shanghai stadium concert has been met with widespread criticism due to organizational issues and perceived poor performance quality. Attendees are complaining about the late start, West’s early exit due to “personal reasons,” and an extended instrumental interlude, resulting in a short performance. The high ticket prices are seen as unjustified. Social media is flooded with negative comments, with the hashtag “Kanye Loses Credibility After Shanghai Stunt” trending.

China’s micro-drama market surges but faces content originality concerns. A controversial mini-series, “Rehire Me,” drew criticism for its clear parallels to Huawei and Xiaomi. It features characters named similarly to Huawei’s Yu Chengdong and Xiaomi’s SU7 car model within fictionalized corporate rivalry plots. Despite accusations of thinly-veiled exploitation for views and monetization tactics, the series gained over 810,000 views.

A social media post sparked debate over the Xinhua Dictionary’s example sentence for “burden,” which reads: “The child is young and has become a burden.” Veteran commentator Hu Xijin agreed the example is inappropriate and should be changed, but cautioned against extreme interpretations like “open hostility towards children,” urging against hyperbole and a harsh social atmosphere.

Viral videos of individuals in Meituan delivery uniforms depicting hardship have sparked controversy. Meituan refuted claims of fabricated scenarios, including a rider crying at 5 a.m. The videos, posted by accounts later found to be unregistered or recently registered, leverage emotionally charged themes for potential financial gain. Meituan is investigating and may pursue legal action, maintaining a zero-tolerance policy against defamation of delivery riders.

Entrepreneur Yu Donglai denied making comments about influencer Dong Yuhui amidst online speculation. He clarified his stance on Douyin (TikTok), stating he doesn’t know Yuhui and acknowledges his potential. The controversy arose after Yu praised Nie Shengzhe, who made critical videos about Yuhui, leading fans to question Yu’s support for Nie’s criticisms and whether they reflect his views on Yuhui.

Balenciaga has released a $4,500 women’s skirt resembling men’s boxer briefs, sparking online debate. The stretch knit mini-skirt, part of the 2025 Fall collection, features a low-rise design and the Balenciaga logo. Despite criticism, the skirt is reportedly sold out, mirroring a trend seen with the brand’s controversial $2,700 stainless steel hair clips, which were criticized for their high price compared to similar items elsewhere.