Rumors Surface About Kris Wu, Former EXO Star's Death in Beijing Correctional Facility — Officials Have Not Verified

 The realm of entertainment has been thrown into disarray following claims that Kris Wu, a Chinese-Canadian pop figure who once stood as one of Asia’s most famous stars, is said to have died while imprisoned in Beijing. He was 34 years old.

As reported by various Chinese social media profiles and entertainment websites, Wu, who is officially known as Wu Yifan, is said to have died on October 30, 2025, at a facility where he was serving a 13-year sentence for sexual assault and hosting illegal gatherings. Several unreliable sources have hinted that the former member of EXO may have died from exhaustion or health issues after engaging in a prolonged hunger strike.

To date, no formal communication has been provided by the authorities of the Beijing prison or by Chinese state media, leading to a wave of speculation and caution from online users. Officials have reminded the public that sharing unverified details regarding ongoing inquiries could lead to legal consequences under Chinese legislation.

Wu's dramatic transition from a superstar to an inmate marks one of the most shocking controversies in the landscape of Chinese pop culture. Once celebrated as a unifying figure between K-pop and Mandopop, he gained worldwide recognition following his debut with SM Entertainment’s EXO in 2012. After leaving the group in 2014, Wu cultivated a successful solo career in China, partnering with international brands like Burberry and starring in prominent films.

However, his reputation plummeted in 2021 when influencer Du Meizhu accused him of exploitative behavior and sexual offenses involving several women, including minors. The resulting backlash culminated in his arrest, conviction in 2022, and subsequent imprisonment.

In recent months, Wu resurfaced in Chinese news due to reports of new tax evasion allegations tied to his mother. Authorities reportedly associated them with extensive financial wrongdoing exceeding 300 million yuan, further tarnishing the legacy of what was once a beloved name.

Speculation about Wu's declining health began to circulate weeks prior to his alleged death, with online sources claiming that he was kept in severe isolation and had refused to eat for long periods. Some reports indicated he had not received any family visits since his mother was taken into custody.

As rumors continue to spread on Weibo and other Chinese platforms, there has been no official validation. State-run media outlets have neither confirmed nor denied these claims, leaving both fans and critics in a state of uncertainty.

From international acclaim to a notorious downfall, Kris Wu’s narrative serves as a sobering reminder of the intersection between celebrity influence, moral judgment, and public responsibility in an era of digital awareness. Regardless of the truth behind these recent claims, the story of Wu Yifan remains one of contemporary entertainment’s most unsettling cautionary tales.