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A Chinese internet celebrity known as “Prince Bai” (real name Wang Zibai) has been fined a staggering 13.3 million yuan after being caught evading taxes totaling 7.49 million yuan. On December 18, Shanghai tax authorities revealed that Wang’s penalties include repayment of taxes owed, late payment fees, and fines.
“Prince Bai” became a controversial figure for flaunting his extravagant lifestyle online. Known for showcasing luxury goods, designer clothes, and exotic travel, the influencer built an image of opulence. Driving luxury cars like a Porsche 911 and even gifting himself a custom Rolls-Royce Cullinan for his 25th birthday, he was the epitome of wealth. His social media also featured first-class travel, high-end shopping sprees, and an obsession with Hermès handbags worth over a million yuan each.
At his peak, Wang amassed nearly 3 million followers on Douyin, but his account was banned in May 2024 for violating platform regulations. He later created a new account under his real name, which garnered 218,000 followers. Despite his controversies, he continued to post content until his tax evasion scandal broke.
Wang’s extravagant lifestyle captivated many, with fans flocking to his posts to catch glimpses of high society. However, cracks in his “elite socialite” persona began to show when he started selling used items to fans, claiming it was a way to “give back.” Fans eagerly purchased his secondhand luxury goods, only to discover that many items were counterfeit.
Outraged buyers quickly organized, reporting Wang’s accounts and exposing his fraudulent practices. This led to his permanent ban on multiple platforms. Despite these setbacks, Wang re-emerged with new accounts and fabricated tales of a mysterious, wealthy benefactor funding his lavish lifestyle. However, skeptics, including former fans, debunked his stories and labeled the “benefactor” as fictional.
The scandal even implicated prominent figures like Shanghai businessman Qin Fen, whom some speculated was Wang’s so-called “sponsor.” Qin publicly denied any connection, angrily calling out the rumors and forcing Wang to delete posts and disappear from the spotlight temporarily.
The revelation of Wang’s tax evasion and fabricated lifestyle reignited public discussions about online influencers and the illusion of wealth.
“Life is stranger than fiction - he was like a live-action drama,” one netizen commented.
“Scamming fans with fake luxury goods and then evading taxes? He deserves every bit of punishment,” another remarked.
Some criticized the internet culture that glorifies influencers. “Why are so many people obsessed with these fake lifestyles? It’s all smoke and mirrors,” wrote one user.
Others noted the irony of Wang’s downfall. “From driving Rolls-Royces to being exposed as a fraud, his story is a cautionary tale about living beyond your means,” another commenter observed.
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