Zhang Linghe recently found himself apologising in dual languages, after making a joke about Southeast Asia.
The whole thing sparked when he and his “Pursuit of Jade” co-star Tian Xiwei appeared on a variety show to promote the series. The two were asked to draw each other’s portraits, but when he saw the portrait that Tian drew of him, he blurted out, “It was like I was born in Southeast Asia.”
He also likened it to Taiwanese comedian, Yang Di.
This remark quickly went viral online, with some Southeast Asian viewers interpreting it as implying that “Southeast Asian appearance” has negative characteristics, triggering criticism and a boycott. The clip was widely circulated in Thailand, Vietnam, and other regions.
Subsequently, the actor posted his apology both in Chinese and English via social media.
Zhang wrote, “I am truly sorry that my words on the variety show caused any of you discomfort. Please know that I always believe every culture has its own beauty – and it was never my intention to cause any hurt or be disrespectful. Over the years, I have been touched by the incredible support from fans across Southeast Asia – whether through messages, letters, or even traveling all the way to China to see me.”
“I am deeply grateful for all of it, and the last thing I would ever want is for anyone who supports me to feel sad because of this misunderstanding,” he added.
While fans forgave him for his blunder, others were not as courteous, with one netizen writing, “Being from Southeast Asia is not an insult. If you think “looking Southeast Asian” is a joke, the problem isn’t the drawing, it’s your prejudice. A racist remark doesn’t show humour, it shows a bad heart.”
(Photo Source: Zhang Linghe IG, Sin Chew, SINA)