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| 'Pursuit of Jade' Actor Deng Kai Sparks Online Debate Following Sasaeng Encounter on Flight. (Credits: Weibo) |
Actor Deng Kai has found himself at the centre of online debate after a video showing him being crowded by fans inside an airplane cabin went viral, highlighting growing concerns over celebrity privacy as his popularity surges following Pursuit of Jade.
The incident, captured by passengers, shows the actor maintaining composure while repeatedly asking individuals to return to their assigned seats, though his requests appear to have been ignored.
The footage, which quickly spread across social platforms, shows Deng Kai visibly uncomfortable as fans continue to stand close to him in the confined space. At one point, he rolls his eyes, a brief reaction that has since become the focus of discussion.
For some viewers, the gesture was seen as dismissive, while others interpreted it as a restrained response to an intrusive situation.
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The moment is particularly striking given his earlier interaction with fans at the airport.
Before boarding, Deng Kai appeared relaxed and appreciative, greeting supporters with a smile and accepting letters.
The contrast between the two scenes has shaped much of the conversation, with many noting how quickly public enthusiasm can shift into something more overwhelming.
His rise in visibility has been rapid. The 31-year-old actor gained renewed attention through his portrayal of Qi Min in Pursuit of Jade, a role that marked a turning point after years of supporting appearances.
Standing at 189cm and carrying a distinct on-screen presence, he has also drawn interest for his on-screen dynamics with Kong Xueer, as well as his interactions with fellow cast members.
The flight incident occurred as he travelled from Hangzhou to Changsha for a scheduled appearance on the variety programme Hello Saturday.
It was his first major public engagement since the drama’s surge in popularity, and the response he encountered reflects the intensity of that transition.
Fan and netizen reactions have been sharply divided. A smaller group criticised Deng Kai’s visible frustration, suggesting that public figures should remain composed under all circumstances.
However, a significantly larger number of voices have defended him, arguing that being approached in a confined environment crosses a clear line.
Many pointed out that such behaviour, often associated with overly persistent fan culture, should not be normalised regardless of an actor’s status.
The discussion has since broadened beyond the individual incident, touching on wider questions about personal space and the expectations placed on public figures.
Supporters have emphasised that respectful interactions are still possible, citing his earlier airport behaviour as evidence that he is open to engaging with fans under appropriate conditions.
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| Sina/Weibo |
There are also growing concerns around safety and management. With Deng Kai’s schedule expanding, including upcoming appearances alongside Kong Xueer, calls have emerged for stronger crowd control measures and clearer boundaries during public events.
The aim, according to many fans, is not to limit access entirely but to ensure that interactions remain safe and respectful for everyone involved.
The actor’s own brief update following the incident—posting that he could not sleep despite needing to—has added a more personal layer to the situation. For many, it reflects the less visible pressures that come with sudden recognition, particularly for someone who has spent years working steadily before reaching wider attention.
So where do you stand on this moment, and should there be clearer limits when it comes to fan behaviour in public spaces?