University's expulsion of female student ignites online debate

An online announcement issued by Dalian Polytechnic University on Tuesday regarding the expulsion of a female student has ignited heated debate on the internet, prompting discussions on whether the expulsion was warranted and raising concerns about potential overexposure.

The announcement stated to the student surnamed Li, "Your inappropriate behavior on December 16, 2024, has caused a severe negative impact. You are hereby subject to expulsion from our university."

In December, Ukrainian esports player Danylo Teslenko, nicknamed Zeus, claimed in a video to his fan group to have had a sexual relationship with a Chinese girl, allegedly Li, a current student at the university.

Reports indicate that Zeus, born in 1987, is a retired professional esports player from Ukraine who is married, while Li is also in a relationship.

Supporters of the decision argue that Li's actions perpetuate negative stereotypes and stigmatize images of Chinese women on the internet, advocating for her expulsion to uphold discipline and morality. On the other hand, opponents acknowledge her wrongdoing but see the sharing of her private video as victimizing her, questioning the school's harsh punishment.

"This incident magnifies a minor personal moral misstep. Students' private intimate relationships should be protected by the Civil Code as long as they do not violate laws or infringe upon others' rights. The school's unilateral decision to expel is unjustified and raises concerns about potential abuse of authority," said Liu Pengju, a lawyer and influencer from Henan province.

A pertinent question also arises: Shouldn't Zeus, if found guilty, face legal consequences according to the Chinese law, considering his alleged actions of damaging relationships, violating privacy, making derogatory remarks about China, and inciting discrimination?

On July 13, a reporter from Xiaoxiang Morning News attempted to contact the university. However, the phone call went unanswered at the time of publication.