
Kris Wu, the charismatic former EXO member who rose to become one of China’s most prominent entertainers, found himself at the epicenter of a shocking scandal in 2021. Accused of rape and predatory behavior by multiple young women, Wu’s meticulously crafted image crumbled under the weight of public outrage and legal scrutiny.
Wu’s career trajectory was undeniably impressive. From his debut as part of the K-Pop juggernaut EXO in 2012 to his successful solo ventures in China, he had captivated millions with his charm, musical talent, and undeniable screen presence. He starred in numerous blockbuster films, hosted popular variety shows, and amassed a devoted fanbase across Asia.
However, beneath the veneer of stardom lurked a dark side. In July 2021, a young woman named Du Meizhu publicly accused Wu on social media of luring her and other women into sexual relationships under false pretenses. Her allegations sparked a wave of similar accusations from other women, each detailing experiences of manipulation, coercion, and abuse at the hands of the star.
The scandal rapidly escalated, drawing intense public attention and prompting an investigation by the Beijing police. Wu initially denied the allegations, claiming they were fabricated. Yet, the mounting evidence against him proved undeniable. He was detained by authorities on July 31st, 2021, and formally arrested on suspicion of rape a month later.
The arrest sent shockwaves through the Chinese entertainment industry, prompting widespread discussions about the prevalence of sexual harassment and abuse in the highly competitive field. Fans grappled with the realization that their beloved idol was allegedly capable of such heinous acts. Brands severed ties with Wu, his films were pulled from distribution, and his music was removed from streaming platforms.
Wu’s trial began in June 2023 at the Chaoyang District People’s Court in Beijing. The proceedings were shrouded in secrecy, with limited access for media and the public. However, court documents released later revealed a chilling picture of Wu’s alleged crimes. Prosecutors presented evidence suggesting that he had engaged in sexual relationships with multiple women under false pretenses, offering them career opportunities in exchange for sex.
Wu faced three charges: rape, forcible sexual intercourse, and assembling a crowd to engage in lewd acts. He pleaded guilty to all charges.
The verdict delivered on November 25th, 2023, shocked many but also brought a sense of closure to the victims and their families. Wu was sentenced to 13 years imprisonment for his crimes.
Timeline of Kris Wu’s Downfall:
Date | Event |
---|---|
July 8th, 2021 | Du Meizhu, a former EXO fan, accuses Kris Wu on social media of rape and sexual assault. |
July 19th - 31st, 2021 | Multiple women come forward with similar allegations against Wu. |
July 31st, 2021 | Beijing Police detain Kris Wu. |
August 2021 | Wu is formally arrested on suspicion of rape. |
June - November 2023 | Trial held at Chaoyang District People’s Court in Beijing. |
November 25th, 2023 | Kris Wu sentenced to 13 years imprisonment for rape and forcible sexual intercourse. |
Beyond the Scandal:
Kris Wu’s case served as a stark reminder of the power imbalances that can exist in the entertainment industry and the vulnerability of young aspiring artists. It sparked conversations about the need for greater accountability and transparency, particularly when it comes to powerful figures like celebrities and studio executives.
His downfall also highlighted the evolving role of social media in shaping public discourse and holding individuals accountable for their actions. Du Meizhu’s initial accusation on Weibo, China’s equivalent of Twitter, ignited a firestorm of online discussion and ultimately played a crucial role in bringing Wu to justice.
The Kris Wu scandal will undoubtedly be remembered as a turning point in Chinese entertainment. It exposed the dark underbelly of fame and power while prompting calls for systemic change to ensure that similar incidents are prevented in the future.