In a highly publicized and disturbing development, former Chinese-Canadian pop star Kris Wu has been sentenced to 13 years in prison for the rape of minors and massive tax evasion, followed by deportation and a 10-year entry ban from China. The full extent of Wu’s crimes, long shrouded in secrecy, was officially revealed on July 16 through a televised legal education program aired on China Central Television (CCTV).
Criminal Conviction: Sexual Assault of Minors
During the CCTV broadcast, Professor Ma Ai of the China University of Political Science and Law confirmed that Wu was convicted of engaging in sexual activity with minors under the age of 14. Despite the acts being allegedly “consensual,” Chinese law clearly classifies any sexual conduct with individuals under this age as statutory rape.
The professor emphasized the gravity of the offense, explaining that the involvement of minors made the case one of aggravated sexual assault, thus justifying the maximum prison term. Wu, who holds Canadian citizenship, is not eligible for sentence reduction under current Chinese law.
Further tarnishing his reputation, Wu was also convicted of tax evasion totaling more than 300 million yuan (over $41 million USD). His mother, who oversaw the management of several of his companies, was also found guilty of customs and tax fraud during her tenure.
Both individuals were prosecuted after failing to repay the owed taxes and penalties. These charges led to an extension of Wu’s legal liabilities and further cemented his fall from grace.
Background of the Case
The initial investigation into Wu began in July 2021, after influencer Du Meizhu accused him of drugging and assaulting her while she was underage. Her claims, coupled with reports from other victims, sparked widespread public outrage and a formal investigation by Chinese authorities.
Findings from the investigation confirmed that Wu had assaulted three intoxicated women at his residence between November and December 2020, and that he had organized a group sex event involving minors in July 2018.
Once hailed as a “top-tier idol” in Chinese entertainment, Wu is now a cautionary tale about the abuse of fame and power. His conviction marks a watershed moment in China’s efforts to enforce stricter accountability in its entertainment industry.
With 13 years of incarceration ahead and a permanent stain on his public image, Kris Wu’s downfall serves as a stark reminder that no one is above the law.
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