China’s booming short drama industry is under intense scrutiny after a scene from the trending short series 重回被換子之前，侯府主母贏麻了sparked outrage for allegedly showing inappropriate physical contact toward a female actress during filming.
According to Sina, the Chinese short drama market has expanded rapidly. In 2025, the industry reached a scale of 90 billion RMB, marking a 78% increase from 50.5 billion RMB in 2024. In comparison, China’s theatrical film market recorded total revenue of 51.8 billion RMB (approximately 7.4 billion USD), despite significantly higher production costs. As a result, both producers and actors are flocking to short dramas in search of opportunities.
However, the industry’s explosive growth has also exposed major structural problems. Production standards remain inconsistent, working conditions lack stability, and some crews reportedly exploit regulatory loopholes to cut costs, delay wages, or operate in unhealthy environments.
Recently, viewers noticed a controversial kidnapping scene in the hot short drama mentioned above. During the scene, the male co-star appeared to touch the actress’s chest area. Audiences questioned whether the act was intentional, noting that his hand had previously been positioned lower. After public complaints surfaced online, the production team reportedly removed the disputed footage.
According to 163, this is not an isolated incident. Several established stars, including Zhao Liying and Liu Yifei, have previously experienced uncomfortable physical contact while filming crowded scenes where controlling background actors is difficult.
Short drama productions are typically completed within 7 to 15 days, with directors pushing tight schedules. Under such pressure, ensuring actresses’ safety is often deprioritized. One short drama actress revealed, “For some directors, anyone who delays filming becomes the enemy. Actors are not allowed to fall sick or show discomfort. Even if we complain, no one handles it.”
Because many short drama crews are formed quickly and disband just as fast, incidents are often handled superficially before teams move on to new projects. Many lesser-known actresses reportedly endure unfair treatment to avoid being blacklisted or losing future roles.
In addition to allegations of inappropriate touching, the industry has faced criticism for pressuring actresses to wear revealing costumes to boost viewership. Sina reported that some producers follow the trend that “every inch less of clothing means millions more views.” Outfits that would fail censorship standards in traditional long-form dramas are now used deliberately in vertical short drama formats to attract clicks.
Critics argue that turning women’s bodies into marketing tools demeans female performers. Many short drama actresses lack management agencies or influential backing, leaving them dependent on production crews and vulnerable to excessive demands from directors.
Safety concerns extend beyond adult performers. In a previous controversy, a female artist accused a crew of leaving a newborn baby in the rain for hours for the sake of realism. The infant reportedly received only 800 RMB (approximately 110 USD) for the scene. Viewers expressed outrage, pointing out that such negligence could have put the child’s life at risk.
Industry insiders note that while around 90 short dramas are released daily, competition is brutal and career longevity is rare. Only actors with pre-existing fame tend to secure reasonable pay. Most performers work overnight to meet demanding schedules while earning modest compensation.
Additionally, some short dramas rely on provocative storylines to gain attention, including plots involving a 7-year-old girl marrying a man nearly 30 years old. Such narratives have drawn accusations of promoting inappropriate relationships and distorting public perception, especially among younger viewers.
According to 163, actors and audiences alike are urging cultural authorities to strengthen regulations, establish clearer production standards, and strictly supervise working conditions within the short drama industry. As the market continues to expand at an unprecedented pace, the call for reform grows louder to ensure both artistic integrity and performer safety.
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