Actor Zhu Yilong’s drumming performance at the lululemon Great Wall Yoga event recently sparked huge controversy, with some netizens questioning whether the drums were Chinese.
It is understood that the brand previously promoted “The Sound of Chinese Drums” and “Traditional Chinese Drum Music” during the event. However, some percussion professionals and netizens pointed out that the drums on site were consistent with the characteristics of Japanese taiko drums in terms of shape, craftsmanship and playing style, rather than traditional Chinese drums.
On 17 June, multiple parties involved, including the brand (lululemon), the artiste’s studio, the drum troupe, and the event organisers, issued statements apologising for the situation.
In its apology statement, lululemon stated, “Due to limitations in our professional knowledge, we failed to fully identify potential controversies in the early stages. We also fully recognise that we should be more cautious and thorough in the early planning and review process of drum performances.”
It added, “We extend our sincere apologies to the public and Mr. Zhu Yilong, and have removed all related promotional content.”
The statement from Zhu Yilong’s studio stated, “Regarding the discussion surrounding the drum kit used by Mr. Zhu Yilong during the lululemon Great Wall brand event he participated in on 30 May 2026, we immediately urged the brand to verify the entire process and to review, analyse, and follow up on the whole incident. In the future, the studio will treat every task with a more rigorous and professional attitude. We sincerely accept the concern and supervision from all sectors of society.”
The founder of the drum troupe HIIKO, which performed at the event, also issued an apology letter stating, “We have completely removed all related controversial content and suspended all external promotion and use of the controversial drums. Going forward, our troupe will strictly control the content and eliminate any statements that may trigger public opinion regarding cultural attributes.”
The apology letter stated that the group will further study and improve their professional knowledge and humbly accept criticisms and guidance from all sectors. They also expressed their sincere apologies to the event organisers, brands, artistes, and related partners for the public resources wasted and for any inconvenience caused by this incident.
(Photo Source: China Press)