A Shanghai concert by renowned Japanese pop icon Ayumi Hamasaki has been abruptly canceled following a serious breach of privacy during closed rehearsals. The incident occurred when a videographer, identified as Lai Zonglong, illicitly recorded and disseminated footage from the private soundcheck session.
Lai publicly apologized on Monday through his Weibo account ‘Yanhuobinhai’ after leaking the unauthorized clips on his personal Douyin account last Friday. The footage sparked widespread misinformation across social media platforms, including false claims that Hamasaki had performed an entire concert to an empty venue.
In his formal apology, Lai admitted to violating multiple professional protocols and strict no-recording policies established by concert organizers. ‘The photos I posted and subsequent misinformation have caused significant disruption to the performance and concert organization,’ Lai stated. ‘I deeply regret my actions and sincerely apologize for violating the established protocols.’
Concert organizers announced the cancellation one day before the scheduled performance, citing force majeure circumstances. The event was part of Hamasaki’s highly anticipated 2025 Asian tour. Attendees will receive full refunds within 30 days, according to official statements.
Lai has pledged to adhere strictly to workplace regulations and professional ethics moving forward, vowing to ‘resolutely refrain from publishing false information’ online in the future. The incident has highlighted ongoing challenges in maintaining security and privacy for high-profile international performances in China’s entertainment industry.