[Edaily Starin KIM HYUNSIK Reporter] As the parents of Ai Zhen (13), a Chinese member of the rookie girl group A2O LITE, are embroiled in a so-called “debt investment” controversy, some Chinese fans are drawing attention by offering to lend money to help settle the debt.

According to Taiwanese media outlet NOWnews on the 23rd, a post recently appeared on the Chinese social media platform Weibo calling on fans to join forces to resolve Ai Qing’s parents’ debt issues.
In a post written on the 19th, one fan stated, “I am willing to lend Ai Zhen’s mother 1,000 yuan (approximately 200,000 won) to start with,” and invited other fans to join the effort.
The fan said, “I hope those willing to help can come together to form an organization. If possible, let’s include Ai Zhen’s mother as well so we can resolve the immediate issues.”
They continued, “Right now, I just hope Aizhing can enjoy dancing and savor the joy of her debut,” adding, “As a fan, I simply want Aizhing to be happy.”
Regarding the method of raising funds, they explained, “This isn’t a fundraiser—it’s a loan,” adding, “The idea is to get the money back later once Aiching’s mother earns it.”
In response, some online commentators argued that it was inappropriate for fans to try to resolve her parents’ debt issues on their behalf. However, it remains unconfirmed whether fans actually began raising funds and delivered the money to Aizhing’s parents.
Previously, Aizhing’s parents were embroiled in controversy over allegations of unpaid wages at an education-related company they operated in China. It was reported that the total amount of debt subject to court-ordered enforcement against the company and the parents amounted to 3.45 million yuan (approximately 700 million won).
As the controversy grew, Ai Zhing’s mother acknowledged on Weibo on the 14th that the debt dispute arose from financial difficulties and apologized. She also stated that she is discussing solutions with those affected and intends to take full responsibility.
She also emphasized that her daughter, Ai Qing, had no involvement whatsoever in the company’s past operations or the debt disputes, and asked the public to refrain from criticizing her.
A2O Light, the group to which Ai Qing belongs, is a nine-member multinational girl group launched by singer-turned-producer Lee Soo-man. A2O Light is currently gaining popularity, sweeping the top spots on major music charts with their debut song “NEON,” released on the 13th.