The response was quick. Nashi's name was removed from the drama series credits, and big brands ended their partnerships with her. She became part of a growing group of people in China facing heavy criticism over their privilege. Officials have been launching investigations to calm the rising frustration among the public.
In the past months, several cases involving young women have gone viral. These include two actresses, a Harvard graduate, and a doctor from a top hospital in Beijing. All of them were accused of using family connections to gain unfair advantages in life.
On social media, users expressed anger by saying, "There's privilege every year, but this year it's everywhere."
Online Investigations Expose More Scandals
Nashi was accused of using her mother's connections to get into a famous drama school. The program was meant for ethnic Mongolian students like her and her mother. Old interviews showed Nashi did not fulfil a key requirement to work in Inner Mongolia after graduation, choosing to study in Norway instead.
In June, as students were preparing for the tough Gaokao exams, online users compared her exam scores from 2008 and accused her of getting special treatment. Even after officials confirmed her higher scores, public anger continued.
A similar story happened in April, involving two doctors, Mr Xiao and Ms Dong, from a famous hospital in Beijing. After a letter accused Mr Xiao of favouring Ms Dong, shocking claims appeared, including one about leaving a sedated patient alone.
The focus shifted to Ms Dong, with accusations that she became a doctor in four years instead of eight. An investigation confirmed her cheating, and her medical license and degrees were cancelled.
Her story upset many hardworking doctors in China. One doctor said, "We work so hard, but it's never enough," showing how unfairness affects many professionals.
Growing Discontent Among Young Chinese
Anger also grew in June towards Harvard graduate Yurong Luanna Jiang after her graduation speech became popular. She spoke about overcoming hardship, but internet users quickly pointed out gaps in her story and accused her of hiding her privileged background.
This happened at a time when many young people were struggling with fewer job opportunities due to a slowing economy.
Another scandal involved actress Huang Yang Tian Tian, who wore expensive-looking earrings. People online suspected her family had unfair wealth. Authorities claimed the earrings were cheap, but many people doubted their words.
Public frustration keeps increasing, especially when investigations seem incomplete. Many young people express their anger online, feeling that their hard work goes unnoticed while some privileged individuals succeed easily. Comments on social media reflect this deep frustration, as people demand fairness and honesty in society.
