A group of teenagers in Shanghai has been slapped with a staggering S$395,706 fine after a video of them urinating into a Haidilao hotpot went viral — sparking nationwide outrage and disbelief.
The incident took place in one of Haidilao’s popular branches, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and impeccable service. However, that reputation took a hit when the teens decided to pull a “prank” that shocked both staff and diners.
In the now-deleted clip, one of the teens is seen climbing onto the restaurant table, laughing while others record, before urinating directly into the simmering hotpot — a communal dish shared by customers. The group reportedly thought it would be “funny” to upload the video online, tagging it as a “dare gone wrong.”
Unfortunately for them, the video quickly spread across Chinese social media platforms like Weibo and Douyin, amassing millions of views in hours. Netizens were furious, calling the act “disgusting,” “irresponsible,” and a sign of “moral decay among youth.”
Haidilao immediately launched an internal investigation after the footage went viral. The restaurant identified the teens through surveillance footage and filed a police report. Within days, authorities tracked them down and confirmed their involvement.
According to local reports, the teenagers were charged with public indecency and property damage, as the contaminated equipment and food had to be completely replaced. The restaurant also temporarily closed the branch for deep cleaning and safety inspection.
A court in Shanghai later ruled that the group must collectively pay S$395,706 (about US$290,000) in damages, covering sanitation costs, business interruption, and reputational harm.
In court, the teens reportedly apologized, claiming they “didn’t expect it to blow up this much” and “just wanted to go viral.” The judge, however, was unsympathetic, stating:
“What you considered a joke has serious consequences — both for the business and public trust.”
The case has since reignited debate in China over social media culture and the lengths some people will go to for online attention. “This is the dark side of clout chasing,” one Weibo user commented. Another added, “They got what they deserved — actions have consequences.”
Haidilao released an official statement thanking the public for their support and reassuring customers that the branch has been fully sanitized and reopened under strict hygiene protocols.
Experts say the fine serves as a strong warning to others. “Businesses today are vulnerable to viral stunts,” said a media ethics professor at Fudan University. “This ruling sends a clear message that digital fame is not a defense for irresponsible behavior.”
What was meant to be a joke among friends ended up costing nearly half a million dollars — and their dignity.
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