Two teenagers who urinated into a pot of broth at a hotpot restaurant have been ordered to pay 2.2 million yuan (~RM1.3 million) in compensation to two catering companies in China.
The incident occurred in February 2025 at a Shanghai outlet of Haidilao, China’s largest hotpot chain, and drew widespread outrage after the 17-year-olds uploaded a video of their drunken prank online.
Although no contaminated broth was believed to have been served, Haidilao compensated thousands of diners who visited the restaurant in the days following the incident.
Haidilao initially sued for RM13.6 million in damages
In March, the chain sought over 23 million yuan (~RM13.6 million) in damages, citing the refunds and payouts it had issued to affected customers.
Last Friday, a Shanghai court ruled that the teenagers had violated the companies’ property rights and reputation through “acts of insult,” noting their actions tainted the tableware and triggered “strong public discomfort.”
The court also found that the teens’ parents had failed in their duty of guardianship, ordering them to cover the compensation. This includes:
- 2 million yuan (~RM1.18 million) for operational and reputational damage
- 130,000 yuan (~RM76,500) for tableware losses and cleaning expenses
- 70,000 yuan (~RM41,200) in legal costs
However, the court clarified that Haidilao’s decision to offer additional compensation to its customers — such as full refunds and payouts worth 10 times their bills — was a “voluntary business decision” and would not be charged to the teenagers.
Haidilao had compensated over 4,000 diners who visited the branch between 24 February, the date of the incident, and 8 March. The company also replaced all hotpot equipment and carried out disinfection works.
Haidilao is a major hotpot chain, now operating more than 1,000 outlets worldwide. It is renowned for its exceptional customer service and family-friendly touches, such as free manicures and snacks while waiting to be seated.
Source: BBC
Follow Wah Piang for more updates.
