In Exchange for Being Called “Brother,” Man Sends $550,000 to Female Streamer
STREAMING OBSESSION – A Chinese man named Hong went viral after sending $550,000 (4 million yuan) to a female streamer in exchange for her calling him “brother.”
His obsession with supporting the streamer led him to drain his family’s savings. When the funds ran out, Hong resorted to stealing copper materials from his family’s hardware business to continue funding his addiction. He even survived on plain steamed buns due to his worsening financial situation.
Hong, from Ningbo, Zhejiang province, developed an obsession with online live-streaming earlier in the year. He began sending large sums of money to his favorite streamer, whose identity remains undisclosed. As his family noticed their savings being depleted, they restricted his access to funds. Despite this, he continued his actions by stealing copper from the family business, taking it during deliveries, and selling it to recycling stations.
In October 2024, the factory reported missing copper to the police, prompting an investigation. Hong, along with his family, eventually surrendered to the authorities. Initially, he confessed to only two thefts but later admitted to over 40 thefts, stealing roughly $316,000 worth of copper. He explained that his sole motivation was to hear the streamer call him “brother,” emphasizing that he had no intention of meeting her in person.
Hong was arrested for theft, and more than 1 million yuan was returned to the factory.
Meanwhile, if you or someone you know is in a similar situation, take immediate steps to address the issue. Acknowledge the problem and seek professional help from addiction counselors or mental health experts. Work with a financial adviser to limit access to funds and safeguard resources. If illegal actions are involved, cooperate with authorities to resolve the matter ethically. Provide emotional support and help the individual understand the consequences of their behavior.
To prevent recurrence, encourage healthy online habits, set financial safeguards, and promote offline activities to build real-world connections. Therapy for the individual and family can also aid recovery and foster better coping strategies.
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