Shocking Incident at Haidilao Sparks Outrage
A disturbing incident at a Haidilao hotpot restaurant in Shanghai has led to significant legal consequences for two teenagers and their families. The 17-year-olds, after consuming alcohol, urinated into a pot of broth in a private dining room at the popular chain, filming their act and posting it online. The video quickly went viral, sparking widespread public disgust and criticism across social media platforms in China and beyond.
The Huangpu District People's Court of Shanghai ruled that the teenagers deliberately infringed upon property rights and damaged the reputation of Haidilao, a well-known hotpot chain founded in Sichuan province with over 1,000 restaurants globally. The court noted that the act not only polluted tableware and the dining environment but also caused 'strong discomfort among the public,' amplifying the reputational harm to the company.
Court Ruling and Financial Penalties
In a first-instance verdict, the court ordered the parents of the teenagers to pay a total of 2.2 million yuan, equivalent to approximately $300,000, in compensation to Haidilao. This hefty fine includes 2 million yuan for reputational and business damages, 130,000 yuan for tableware losses and cleaning expenses, and an additional 70,000 yuan to cover legal costs. The court held the parents accountable, stating they had 'failed to fulfill their duty of guardianship,' which contributed to the incident.
Haidilao initially sought over 23 million yuan in damages through a civil lawsuit filed in March, alongside a request for a public apology. While the final compensation amount was significantly lower than requested, it still represents a substantial penalty aimed at addressing both the operational losses and the severe impact on the company's public image. The chain also reported the case to police in Jianyang, Sichuan—where it is headquartered—and other locations, leading to the arrest of the teenagers.
Broader Implications for Public Behavior
This case has ignited discussions about public behavior and parental responsibility in China, with many online users expressing shock at the teenagers' actions. Posts found on X reflect a mix of outrage and calls for accountability, highlighting how such incidents can tarnish the reputation of major businesses overnight. Haidilao, known for its customer service and dining experience, faced immediate backlash as news of the incident spread.
The ruling serves as a stark reminder of the legal and financial repercussions of reckless behavior, especially when amplified by social media. It also underscores the challenges businesses face in managing reputational crises caused by individual actions. As Haidilao works to recover from this incident, the court's decision may set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future, emphasizing accountability for both minors and their guardians.