In a recent development, the former K-Pop idol Kris Wu, also known as Wu Yi Fan, has faced a significant setback as his appeal for the 13-year prison sentence has been denied by Beijing’s Third Intermediate People’s Court. The Chinese court upheld the original ruling, finalizing the verdict and reinforcing the serious charges against Wu.
Chinese Court Refuses to Change Kris Wu’s 13-Year Sentence
The legal saga began in 2021 when Wu was detained after being accused of rape, sexual assault, grooming, and seeking out underage girls under false pretenses. Chinese influencer Du Meizhu played a crucial role in bringing these accusations to light, sharing detailed statements and screenshots from other women as evidence. Despite initial denials from Wu, the legal proceedings unfolded, and in July 2023, he privately appeared in Chinese court to appeal the sentence.
The court’s decision to uphold the original ruling indicates that Wu’s actions were deemed to constitute the crime of group licentiousness, with the court asserting that he acted as the ringleader orchestrating lewd activities involving others. Consequently, Wu is set to serve the 13-year prison sentence, with an additional order for deportation upon completing his term.
Kris Wu's request to appeal his 13-year conviction for rape and mass indecency has been rejected by the No.3 Intermediate People's Court of Beijing.
“Kris Wu violated the will of women and took advantage of the drunkenness of multiple victims to have sexual relations with them.” pic.twitter.com/sEshck6lFD
— Pop Base (@PopBase) November 24, 2023
The deportation order raises the prospect of Wu returning to Canada, his home country. Notably, Canada has a policy of administering chemical castration to sex offenders, suggesting that Wu may face similar measures upon his return.
The legal proceedings and ultimate denial of the appeal underscore the severity of the charges against Kris Wu, marking a significant chapter in the #MeToo movement within the entertainment industry. The case has garnered attention not only for its impact on Wu’s career but also for its implications in addressing issues related to sexual misconduct and exploitation.
The original verdict for the charges of rape and organizing group lewdness against #KrisWu Yifan, a Chinese-Canadian pop singer and former member of South Korean boy band EXO, has been upheld in a second trial, a court said. Wu was sentenced to 13 years in prison followed by… pic.twitter.com/gRZh9K3kJ2
— Global Times (@globaltimesnews) November 24, 2023
As the legal process concludes, the aftermath of Kris Wu’s case continues to stimulate discussions surrounding justice, accountability, and the broader context of the entertainment industry’s responsibility in addressing such matters. The finality of the court’s decision reflects the legal stance on the charges against Wu and adds another layer to the evolving narrative surrounding his legal battles.
Wu is a former member of EXO. He left the group in 2014.
