Lay Zhang’s 'Refusal to Admit Fault' Exposed as Violation of Political Discipline, Causing Strife Right Before Korean President’s Visit to China

"EXO" Chinese member Lay Zhang (LAY) originally announced performances on Hunan TV and Shandong TV’s Spring Festival Galas, and had already recorded for the 'Internet Audio-Visual Gala.' However, he was nowhere to be seen during the broadcasts. In response, his studio issued a statement refuting rumors of being 'banned' or being branded a 'tainted celebrity,' explaining that he had just undergone nasal surgery in early January and needed to recuperate. Current affairs blogger 'Li Ji' directly claimed that Lay Zhang was punished with a 'one-year suspension on all offline event approvals,' including galas, commercial performances, and variety shows, and went on to reveal more inside information. The reason for Lay Zhang’s punishment was that, as an actor in the China National Theatre, he went abroad without reporting or approval twice in a row right before Korean President Lee Jae-myung’s visit to China, thereby violating political discipline and involving sensitive diplomatic and major national interests. Afterwards, he nonetheless refused to admit fault and impulsively resigned.

Lay Zhang announced in December 2023 that he had joined the National Theatre as a lead in the major production 'Called: Dunhuang.' On December 14 last year, he unexpectedly missed the EXO fan meet in Korea due to 'unavoidable circumstances,' later explaining, 'I rushed back to Beijing in the morning to attend important National Theatre activities.' Li Ji pointed out that he was urgently called back by his unit, which took the blame on his behalf and faced fan backlash. Yet on December 31, he again went to perform in Hong Kong with Chanyeol and Sehun without seeking approval.

Source: Apple News Network