Examining the Fallout and Implications of Li Jiaqi’s Apology After ‘Inappropriate’ Remarks
Chinese makeup and beauty sensation, Li Jiaqi, renowned as the “King of Lipstick,” found himself in the midst of a social media storm recently, leading to a heartfelt apology that has taken the internet by storm. In this article, we delve into the details of this incident, the subsequent apology, and the implications it carries within the world of influencers and e-commerce.
Li Jiaqi’s public apology unfolded during a livestream on Monday evening, following a controversial exchange with a netizen who criticized the pricing of a domestic-brand eyebrow pencil, deeming it “too expensive.” Li’s reaction triggered an outpouring of opinions on Sina Weibo, with 13 trending topics dedicated to him on the social media platform.
During his livestream, Li began with a sincere apology: “Today I’d like to seriously say ‘sorry’ to you guys.” He emphasized the pivotal role his female audience played in his success and expressed remorse for his “very inappropriate remarks.” Li acknowledged that he had overstepped boundaries by making personal comments about a netizen and emphasized the importance of respecting individuals’ right to express their opinions during livestreams.
Li’s apology extended beyond his livestream, as he took to Weibo to express further regret. In a reflective post, he acknowledged the difficulties of various professions, including that of the makeup counter salesperson. He offered a heartfelt apology for his comments, recognizing that they had fallen short of expectations.
The incident that prompted this apology revolved around Li promoting a domestic-brand eyebrow pencil priced at 79 yuan ($10.79) during a live-streaming event. When a netizen raised concerns about the product’s pricing, Li defended it, citing the stable price over the years and the challenges faced by domestic makeup companies. This response ignited a debate on social media, with some users defending Li’s stance while others criticized him for questioning the netizen’s work ethic rather than addressing the product’s value.
Li’s apology post garnered over 110,000 comments, reflecting a wide range of opinions, from understanding and forgiveness to harsh criticism. Some fans lamented that success had led him to forget his roots.
The repercussions of this incident extend to Li’s online presence, with over 848,000 fans unfollowing him on Weibo. As his total fan count dropped, it raises questions about the long-term impact on his influencer status.
For the brand involved in the dispute, Huaxizi, a domestic beauty brand, a customer service representative stated that they had recorded the entire incident and planned to conduct a thorough investigation, indicating potential consequences for Li’s collaboration with the brand.
As we contemplate the broader implications, a brand founder highlighted the significance of the incident’s impact. If it escalates into a larger social issue, it could affect the brand’s future collaboration with Li. Conversely, a swift resolution may allow them to maintain their partnership.
This incident sheds light on the growing influence of livestreaming e-commerce in China and the need for influencers to navigate the fine line between defending brands and respecting consumers’ opinions. Regulators are also stepping up efforts to address misconduct within the livestreaming industry, making it imperative for influencers to exercise caution.
Li Jiaqi’s apology serves as a case study in the complex relationship between influencers, consumers, and brands in the digital age. It prompts us to consider the evolving dynamics of online engagement, the consequences of words in the digital sphere, and the ever-watchful eyes of both fans and regulators. As the digital marketing landscape continues to evolve, this incident highlights the importance of transparency, respect, and careful consideration in the world of social media influencers.
