What began as a tasteless prank by a group of teenagers quickly spiraled into one of the most shocking restaurant scandals in Shanghai this year. Authorities have fined a group of Chinese teens a staggering S$395,706 after they were caught on camera urinating into a hotpot at a popular Haidilao restaurant — an incident that has since gone viral and triggered massive public outrage.
According to local reports, the teens were dining at the upscale chain when one of them decided to pull what he described as a “joke.” Surveillance footage captured the moment he climbed onto the dining table and relieved himself directly into the simmering pot while others laughed and filmed the act on their phones. The group quickly left the restaurant, but the shocking video spread online within hours, prompting a fierce backlash from netizens.
Haidilao staff were alerted after a fellow diner reported an “unusual odor” coming from the table shortly after the group’s departure. When employees reviewed the footage, they were horrified to discover what had actually happened. The restaurant immediately shut down that section of the dining area, sanitized the premises, and reported the incident to authorities.
Shanghai police launched an investigation and quickly identified the individuals involved. Despite their attempts to delete the video, it had already circulated across Chinese social media platforms, amassing millions of views and furious comments condemning the act. “This isn’t a prank — it’s a crime,” one user wrote. “They disrespected not only the restaurant but everyone who eats there.”
In court, prosecutors described the incident as “a deliberate act of public nuisance and contamination.” The teens were found guilty of violating food safety laws and causing reputational and financial harm to Haidilao, which is one of China’s largest and most respected dining chains. The massive fine — nearly S$400,000 — was meant to cover both damages and compensation for lost business during the mandatory deep-cleaning and temporary closure.
Haidilao released an official statement expressing relief that justice had been served, while also emphasizing their commitment to hygiene and customer safety. “This was an isolated incident that in no way reflects the values of our patrons or staff,” the company said. “We have since reviewed internal safety measures and implemented stricter monitoring to prevent any future misconduct.”
The teenagers’ parents, reportedly stunned by the severity of the fine, apologized publicly, admitting that their children’s actions had “gone too far.” Legal experts say the hefty penalty sends a clear message about accountability and the importance of maintaining public hygiene standards — especially in the food industry.
Online, reactions have remained intense, with many users praising the court’s decision. “This should be a warning to anyone who thinks they can disrespect public spaces and get away with it,” one commenter said.
The scandal has become a sobering reminder that viral stunts can have real-world consequences — and that one reckless moment can cost far more than anyone could imagine.
admin