LayarHijau – Chinese singer and actor Liu Yuning has sparked heated discussion on Weibo, Wednesday, October 8, after explaining why he no longer takes part in magazine photoshoots. Speaking during a livestream, Liu clarified that his decision is not about personal preference or image control, but a conscious stand against what he calls the “fan economy exploitation” that has become common in China’s entertainment industry.
Liu pointed out that many celebrities and media companies rely on limited-edition magazines, random collectible cards, and bonus photo sets to drive massive fan purchases. He said he has witnessed fans of other artists eventually selling piles of magazines—sometimes twenty or thirty copies at a time—for cheap after losing interest. To him, that kind of consumption is wasteful and painful to watch.
Support Layar Hijau
Layar Hijau is an independent media outlet dedicated to sharing news and stories about the Asian dramas you love. If you enjoy our content, your support helps us keep going and bring more stories to fellow drama fans.
Every bit of support means a lot to us. Thank you for reading, following, and being part of Layar Hijau's journey.
For supporters in Indonesia
For international supporters
For more information, click here.
“I’ve seen fans sell boxes of magazines just to clear their homes. They once bought them passionately, but ended up regretting it. I don’t want my fans to go through that,” Liu said during his stream. “I don’t want anyone to buy something just because my face is on the cover.”
His decision aligns with what he calls his “Three No Principles” — no livestream selling, no excessive commercial shows, and free music releases.
Liu later clarified that “free music” doesn’t mean he has stopped producing songs. He continues to release soundtracks and singles, but refuses to commercialize his music through overpriced physical albums, limited fan boxes, or exclusive merchandise. His songs are made available on major streaming platforms at no cost.
“I want people to listen because they like the music, not because they feel pressured to spend money to show support,” he said.
Liu’s statement has drawn mixed reactions online. Many netizens praised him for standing up against toxic fan marketing and for showing genuine care toward his supporters. “He truly respects his fans. Not many artists in this industry would dare to go against the system,” wrote one popular comment.
Others, however, argued that his words indirectly mocked fellow celebrities who still do magazine shoots. “Why does it sound like he’s looking down on everyone who still shoots for magazines?” one user commented.
Fans were quick to defend him. “If other artists want to shoot, that’s their choice. But Liu Yuning doesn’t want his fans to waste money — that’s between him and his fans,” another viral comment read.
To many observers, Liu Yuning’s stance reinforces his image as a “rebel with a conscience” — a term borrowed from the Chinese phrase 反骨仔, referring to someone brave enough to resist industry norms. By rejecting the consumerist trends of celebrity culture, he’s redefining what it means to care for fans in a market built on endless spending.
Chinese Dramas Products
3 products
Tap the arrow to view products
▼
Rosy Zhao Rosydoedian Authentic Dachshund Plush Doll Squeaky Soft Stuffed Decorative Throw Pillow Collectible Gift
Authenthic Dachshund plush doll from Zhao Lusi's Rosydoedian.
It's only available for shipping to certain countries.
Official Genuine Pursuit of Jade Drama Collectible Photocards Zhang Linghe Tian Xiwei Photo Trading Cards Holiday Gift
Official genuine collectible photocards. These Pursuit of Jade Drama collectible photocards are officially licensed and authentic, featuring beloved characters Zhang Linghe and Tian Xiwei. Perfect for fans seeking genuine memorabilia from the popular drama.
New Drama Fangs Of Fortune Official Merch Collectible Cards Zhao Yuanzhou, Wen Xiao Characters HD Photocard Cosplay Gift
Official merchandise from Fangs of Fortune. This collectible card set is officially licensed Fangs of Fortune merchandise, featuring beloved characters Zhao Yuanzhou and Wen Xiao in high-definition detail for true fans.
