In February 2023, Wang Likun’s husband – Zhan Haoli was arrested for allegedly scamming over 200 people out of 800 million RMB (over 2.7 billion USD) by exploiting parents’ desire to buy homes near good schools. He was put on trial in August 2024, but no final verdict has yet been issued because he and his family have reportedly refused to cover the losses, claiming they lack funds. Authorities are still searching for approximately 600 million RMB (~2.1 billion USD) allegedly diverted before his arrest.
Frustrated by the lack of resolution, 46 households who say they were cheated by Zhan Haoli gathered at Wang Likun’s agency office with banners and later blocked her path on set for her series Martial Universe.
“We didn’t want to resort to this, but we’re at our wits’ end. Six of us older victims died before seeing a cent,” said one elderly protestor.
Wang Likun reportedly refused to compensate and claimed she had severed ties with her husband. She directed the victims to contact her mother-in-law instead. The mother-in-law responded that she had no money, and asked the victims to speak to Wang directly. One victim said he repeatedly pleaded with the actress to help disclose the hidden assets, but was blocked and ignored.
Wang Likun, who registered marriage with Zhan Haoli in 2019, is reportedly trying to divorce him to avoid liability and safeguard her career however, Zhan allegedly refuses to sign the papers. Wang is said to have declared that even if she had the money, she would not use it to bail out him or his debts; instead, she plans to hire top‐tier lawyers to end the marriage.
Originally celebrated as the “bare‐face goddess” of Chinese screens, Wang’s career soared with leading roles in prime-time dramas like Beauty’s Rival in Palace, Martial Universe, and Seven Swords Under Tianshan. In the midst of the scandal, she faced asset freezes, brand contract cancellations, and intensive media scrutiny.
During investigation, authorities alleged Zhan Haoli had used scam proceeds to buy the actress luxury gifts including a villa valued at 47 million RMB (~6.6 million USD) and a Rolls-Royce Phantom worth 1.4 million USD. Wang denied any involvement, submitting proof that her only registered assets were a 2011 Beijing apartment and one MPV, all purchased before her marriage. Authorities later confirmed she was not charged.
Though legally cleared, Wang faces ongoing public pressure as victims continue to demand restitution from her and her ex-husband’s hidden assets. For the victims still waiting, her silence and inaction remain painful reminders of the scope of the fraud.
Sources: K14
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