Legal Action Initiated Against Sasaeng by Zhang Linghe’s Studio
On March 24, 2025, the studio of popular Chinese actor Zhang Linghe, known for his role in The Best Thing, announced their intention to pursue legal measures against an individual identified as a sasaeng. This declaration was communicated via Weibo and outlined two significant illegal behaviors attributed to the individual in question.
Stalking and Harassment
The first illegal action involves persistent stalking of Zhang Linghe outside his residence, where the individual has reportedly attempted to gather personal information illegally. The studio indicated that prior attempts to intervene through the actor’s staff were met with rudeness from the sasaeng, prompting the studio to escalate the matter.
Upon contacting local authorities, the studio was informed that the perpetrator is a minor. As a result, they opted to forgive the individual, hoping that parental intervention would occur. However, the harassment has continued unabated, as noted in the statement.
Violations of Privacy
In addition to stalking, the second concern raised involves the unauthorized acquisition of Zhang Linghe’s personal information, including that of his family and friends. The sasaeng is accused of using this information to send abusive messages and disseminate harmful rumors that tarnish the actor’s reputation.
Consequently, the studio felt compelled to take legal action, citing the individual’s refusal to cease their activities despite prior warnings. Part of the statement released by the studio, as translated by X user @dailyzlinghe, is as follows:
“Our company solemnly declares that the contents such as ‘private contact with fans’ and ‘dating internet celebrities’ circulated on the Internet are all fabricated and maliciously arranged by illegal personnel. Our company has taken legal measures and reserves the right to further pursue the civil legal liability of such personnel.”
Firm Stance Against Sasaeng Activities
The studio emphasized their strong stance against the illegal actions of sasaengs, reiterating their commitment to protecting the rights and interests of artists. They appealed to the public to be prudent in discerning online information and warned against the spread of rumors.
About Zhang Linghe
Zhang Linghe made a notable entrance into the entertainment industry with his debut in 2020’s Maiden Holmes. His talent was quickly recognized, culminating in him receiving the New Force of the Year award at the 5th Jinguduo Network Film and Television Festival in the following year. Following his rise to fame, he has featured in several other projects including Out Generation, Love’s Rebellion, Tiger and Cane, and Refinement of Faith. He is set to appear in upcoming shows Eternal Faith and Zhu Yu.
Details of the Sasaeng’s Actions
The studio provided further insights into the actions of the sasaeng. Their statement described how the individual, along with accomplices, has been persistently lingering near the actor’s residence, even following him during his travels. Despite several warnings from the studio’s representatives, the sasaeng continued their inappropriate behavior.
“At 4:19 AM CST on March 5, this person posted several fake images claiming ‘private contact with artists’ on a certain account, disseminating misinformation and damaging the artist’s reputation.”
The statement further detailed the extent of the information that had been allegedly mishandled by the sasaeng, including household registration details and private phone numbers. The individual has reportedly sent insults and threats to Zhang, his family, and staff, all while lacking any substantiated evidence to support their claims.
“This person maliciously spread rumors about the artist’s personality, work, and private life, creating false narratives, including accusations of improper relationships. Their actions are deplorable! In response to this individual’s illegal activities, our company has reported the case this month,”the statement concluded.
The culmination of these events led to a decision by local authorities to issue an administrative penalty against the sasaeng, who is currently facing legal consequences for their actions as of March 23, 2025.