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Two married parents in Henan province sparked a media storm after meeting in their children’s class chat group, abandoning their families, and eloping. Identified as Zhang and Wen, both had spouses and children but fell in love after frequent conversations on the group chat, where they discussed homework and school matters.
According to Chinese outlet Xiaoxiang Morning News, Zhang and Wen began sharing personal contact information, leading to a deep emotional bond. Zhang reportedly confided that she suffered from domestic violence, leaving her physically and mentally exhausted. Wen often expressed care, making Zhang feel a warmth she had never experienced. Their connection grew until June 2019, when Zhang, after yet another instance of abuse, suggested they leave their families and start fresh in Tianjin, a city 680 kilometers away.
Without informing their spouses or securing divorces, Zhang and Wen left their children and relocated to Tianjin, where they lived together for nearly five years. During this period, Zhang became pregnant. Wen returned to Henan to initiate a divorce from his wife, while Zhang followed suit after giving birth. However, Chinese law prohibits bigamy, and cohabiting with someone other than one’s spouse is illegal and socially condemned.
Their case came to light in May this year, when Zhang and Wen reportedly turned themselves in to the police. Speculation among netizens suggested they may have come forward after discovering legal issues surrounding their child’s birth registration, which would be impossible without a marriage certificate.
In response, the court found Zhang and Wen guilty of bigamy. Zhang received a four-month prison sentence, suspended for six months to allow her to care for her child, while Wen was sentenced to four months in prison. Their actions ignited a wave of online discussions, especially concerning the legal and moral ramifications of their choices.
One netizen pointed out, “Marriage is a responsibility, not something to abandon lightly. Communication and working through problems should come first.” Another, speaking from a woman’s perspective, stressed, “For women facing domestic violence, relying on others can be dangerous. Seek legal help to protect yourself and your kids.”
Source: SCMP
