A 34-year-old Chinese influencer, known as “Sanqiange,” died last week after live streaming himself consuming a dangerously high amount of potent alcohol.
The incident took place on May 16 on Douyin, China’s popular platform similar to TikTok.
During the ill-fated livestream, Sanqiange reportedly consumed at least seven bottles of Baijiu, a Chinese liquor known for its alcohol content ranging from 30% to 60%. The influencer had engaged in a “PK” challenge, a competition among content creators where they vie for gifts or rewards from their audience. Regrettably, losing the challenge meant facing punishment, which, in this case, led to the consumption of copious amounts of Baijiu as a consequence of losing three rounds
A friend of the internet celebrity revealed that they were uncertain of the quantity Sanqiange had consumed prior to their tuning in. However, during the latter part of the livestream, they witnessed the influencer finish three bottles and begin on a fourth. The friend further disclosed that when Sanqiange’s family discovered him, it was already too late for emergency treatment, leaving him with no chance of survival.
Sanqiange, the influencer, was described by their friend as a “decent and straightforward” individual. While the livestream footage gained widespread attention on social media platforms across the country, it has since been removed and cannot be viewed online.
Douyin, recognizing the potential dangers associated with excessive drinking during livestreams, prohibits such behavior on its platform. The livestreamer had already faced a ban from the app in the past for violating this rule. This tragic incident once again raises concerns about the safety of livestream apps and the potential risks associated with dangerous online challenges.
The untimely demise of Sanqiange adds to a series of fatal consequences resulting from these challenges, further emphasizing the need for caution and responsible behavior on social media platforms. Tragic incidents earlier this year, such as the death of a teenager participating in the “Benadryl challenge” and another child’s demise during the “blackout challenge,” serve as grim reminders of the potential hazards that can arise.
In 2022, a group of teenagers in Indonesia engaged in the “angel of death” TikTok challenge, which involved jumping in front of moving vehicles, leading to devastating consequences.