A 13-year-old girl died as a result of an intense obsession with K-Pop, a tragedy that began in November 2013 when she refused to attend school after misplacing her pencil sharpener. The case highlights the potential for extreme devotion to celebrity culture and its devastating consequences.
A Father’s Concerns and a Daughter’s Defiance
The girl’s father, Zhou Kai, voiced his concerns about her waning interest in her education, noting she prioritized the K-Pop group EXO over her studies. He frequently expressed frustration with her spending habits, questioning her constant computer use. “You are sitting on your computer all the time! […] You only know how to spend money,” he reportedly told her.
The daughter responded, stating she could repay him later, dismissing his financial concerns. “It’s only about the money. I can give it back to you later,” she said. Zhou Kai attempted to reason with her, emphasizing the importance of family over celebrity adoration. “You don’t have to return the money to me. No matter how awesome those superstars are, they don’t love you as much as your parents. Do you know this is affecting your studies?”
A Heartbreaking Exchange and a Tragic Outcome
Her response proved to be a turning point. “I love them a thousand times much more than I love you! Idols are a lot better than you!” she exclaimed. Enraged, Zhou Kai retrieved a kitchen knife intending only to intimidate her. However, after she repeated her statement – “Idols are a lot better than parents than you” – he lost control and stabbed her. Overwhelmed with guilt, he then cut his own wrists as her body lay motionless.
“I saw my little girl fall down, rolled from the sofa to the ground…I wanted to save her but it was too late.”
— Zhou Kai
Zhou Kai later explained in court that his daughter’s obsession with EXO had strained their relationship. Her room was filled with posters and merchandise dedicated to the group. She became increasingly isolated, directing anger at anyone who interrupted her computer time or her activities within the EXO fanclub.
She demanded her father fund a trip to Beijing to see EXO perform, a flight costing 1,200 yuan ($168 USD) – more than his monthly salary. Her grandmother ultimately provided 2,700 yuan ($380 USD) to fulfill her wish.
Zhou Kai: We are not rich, we don’t have enough money.
Daughter: So? Why don’t you go and make more money?
In court, Zhou Kai expressed his profound sadness at being devalued in his daughter’s life. “When I heard she said, ‘Idols are a lot better than all the parents like you!’ I could not comprehend anymore. It broke my heart completely,” he stated.
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