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| Chen Zheyuan’s Fans Worry After Unplanned Hug During Public Appearance |
Chinese actor Chen Zheyuan got caught in an awkward and honestly quite alarming moment during a brand appearance in Xi’an on 16 June, after a staff member suddenly rushed in and hugged him on stage—without his consent.
The unexpected contact, captured in multiple fan videos, showed Chen’s body instantly freeze, his expression stiff as he looked visibly uncomfortable. He had been posing for a group photo when the female sales staff approached from the side and latched onto him tightly, refusing to let go even as the atmosphere on stage turned tense.
It wasn’t until the event host stepped in to gently coax the woman off the stage that the moment came to an end. The clip spread quickly online, with fans expressing concern not just for Chen’s boundaries—but his health.
Fans Sound Alarm Over Actor's Condition Post-Surgery
https://t.co/cei37n2L1W pic.twitter.com/NjOBfxDny0
— Atlantis (@nazenaise) June 17, 2025
Turns out, Chen Zheyuan had recently undergone surgery for a broken clavicle, making the incident even more worrying. While Chen didn’t publicly respond, fans pointed out that the forced hug might’ve risked his recovery, especially given how tightly the woman held on.
Shortly after the incident made waves, the staff member involved issued a handwritten apology under her real name, identifying herself as a long-time fan who lost control out of excitement.
She admitted to overstepping her professional boundaries and ignoring Chen Zheyuan’s physical condition. The apology also mentioned that her employer had "seriously criticised and educated" her, and she expressed willingness to accept all consequences.
Facing immense backlash, the salesgirl has issued an apology to Chen Zheyuan, expressing deep remorse after suddenly hugging the actor during Shiseido’s brand event yesterday.
Dear Mr Chen Zheyuan,
First and foremost, I would like to extend my sincerest apologies for my behaviour at today’s event.
As someone who has admired you for many years, I acted out of excitement and lost control of my actions. I also failed to consider your physical condition and neglected my responsibilities as a professional staff member. I deeply regret the trouble I’ve caused you and those who care about you.
My company has since given me serious criticism and guidance. I will reflect on my actions, strictly regulate my future behaviour, and ensure that such incidents do not happen again. I am also willing to take full responsibility for what occurred.
Once again, I offer my sincere apologies to you, and to the fans and friends who support you.
Sincerely,
Li Beilei
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Mixed Online Reactions: “Good Temper ≠ Free Pass”
Online reactions have been mixed. While many expressed sympathy for Chen and called for tighter regulations at public events, others debated whether the staffer’s apology was enough.
“Chen Zheyuan really has a good temper,” one netizen said. “If it were me, I’d have walked off right then. Asking for permission before touching someone should be basic manners.”
Another comment pointed out how some fans had even asked for the woman to be dismissed:
“Some said she should be fired, but others argued—‘she’s a fan, she’s already said sorry, what more do you want?’”
However, not everyone was so forgiving. One user wrote:
“So anyone can break boundaries and walk away just by calling themselves a fan and writing a letter? This isn't how respect works. Brands better take note.”
Industry Watch: Lessons for Future Events?
The whole situation has sparked fresh conversation in the industry about professional boundaries, fan conduct, and idol protection at promotional events. While Chen Zheyuan hasn’t commented publicly, his calm reaction has been praised, though fans hope he won't feel pressured to stay silent just to appear “tolerant”.
Brands working with stars like Chen may now have to rethink their stage management and staff briefings, especially when their spokesperson is recovering from injury. After all, what’s supposed to be a brand boost shouldn’t end with the artist’s wellbeing in question.