Brief Summary
The video discusses the controversy surrounding Chinese VTuber, Balin Porin, who claimed to have been kidnapped and abused for six months. Her story gained initial support and popularity but later faced scrutiny and doubt. Investigations revealed her claims were fabricated, leading to her ban from Billy Billy and significant backlash. The incident sparked debates about human trafficking, VTuber exploitation, and the spread of misinformation, ultimately causing damage to her agency and raising questions about the truth behind her disappearance.
- Balin Porin's initial claim of abduction and abuse.
- The rise and fall of her popularity due to the controversy.
- The impact on her agency and the broader VTuber community.
- The role of media and public opinion in the scandal.
Introduction
A Chinese YouTuber named Balin Porin uploaded a video after a six-month absence, claiming she was kidnapped and abused. She described being taken by people posing as police officers and sold to a middle-aged woman, referred to as "Auntie," who mistreated her. Balin Porin expressed optimism despite the traumatic experience and minor injuries.
Balin Porin's Background and Disappearance
Balin Porin was a small Chinese VTuber who debuted as part of the first generation of the agency Mofu F in September 2021. She released an introduction video and a music video showcasing her singing skills. Despite her efforts, she didn't gain much traction but persevered with her dream of being a VTuber. On November 1, 2021, she posted her last message before disappearing for several months, leading to questions about her whereabouts. The agency, Mofu F, remained silent on the matter.
Sudden Reappearance and Explanation
Balin Porin reappeared on May 4th, announcing her return to streaming on Billy Billy and resuming her activities. However, fans pressed her for answers about her absence, leading her to release a video on May 21st, 2022, explaining her harrowing experience of being kidnapped and abused. She tearfully described being sold to a middle-aged woman who forced her to do manual labor and used her to put out cigarettes on her arm. She also explained how she had been cut off from the world during her abduction and how she escaped.
Initial Support and Rising Doubts
Around the time Balin Porin's video was released, news of wanted human traffickers surfaced, lending weight to her story. Her popularity skyrocketed, surpassing even Vox Akuma on Billy Billy. However, doubts began to emerge as netizens questioned the lack of evidence supporting her claims. A Billy Billy ghost animal VTuber from the Novo Channel released a video refuting Balin Porin's story, claiming it was a lie.
Novo Channel's Allegations and Agency's Response
The Novo Channel raised suspicions about Balin Porin's knowledge of a recent meme despite claiming to have been cut off from the internet. They also suggested she might have been sent to a cult-like organization similar to Yuang Academy, known for its cruel methods of treating internet addiction. A screenshot of a private chat purportedly with Balin Porin revealed she mentioned being abused by her parents in a school similar to a juvenile detention center. In response to the doubts, Mofu F, Balin Porin's agency, began moderating comments and eventually released a statement to clarify the matter, stating her absence was from October 27, 2021, to May 4, 2022.
Agency's Statement and Media Coverage
Mofu F's statement claimed Balin Porin was absent from October 27th to May 4th, but this timeline contradicted her earlier posts, causing more speculation and outrage. The agency quickly took down the post. The incident gained media attention, particularly from Hong Kong and Taiwan, and became a matter of national news. These articles were written from a critical perspective, amidst discussions about human trafficking in China.
Context of Human Trafficking and VTuber Exploitation in China
The video provides context regarding human trafficking and VTuber exploitation in China, highlighting two significant stories: the chained woman incident and the A-Soul scandal. The chained woman incident involved a woman chained to a wall who had given birth to eight children, sparking public outcry and distrust of authorities due to cover-up attempts. The A-Soul scandal involved a popular VTuber idol group where a member, Carol, revealed workplace abuse and exploitation by management. These events contributed to the skepticism surrounding Balin Porin's story and propelled it to national news.
Police Investigation and Agency Confirmation of Fabrication
As Balin Porin's story gained attention, police launched their own investigation. On May 31st, 2022, Mofu F announced that the police confirmed Balin Porin's claim of being kidnapped was fabricated. A Billy Billy police influencer, Jin Granny, confirmed the police investigation and hinted that Balin Porin was a minor, explaining why he couldn't comment further on the case.
Banning and Platform Investigation
Balin Porin's Billy Billy account was permanently banned, and her video detailing her alleged abduction was deleted. Billy Billy issued a notice informing the public of Balin Porin's misconduct and announced a platform-wide investigation into MCN agencies. The platform condemned her actions for disrupting the community and causing negative social impact.
Aftermath and Media's Gender Allegations
Following the incident, Mofu F remained silent, halting recruitment of new virtual livers. Western content creators reported on the matter with skepticism towards CCP reports. Phoenix news media reported that the VTuber used a female voice in the video, leading to allegations that she was faking being a woman. This caused further controversy and debate on gender issues.
Legal Perspective and Final Outcome
A lawyer stated that Balin Porin violated platform regulations and could face detention or a fine for spreading rumors and disturbing public order. By the end of the controversy, there was more support to have Balin Porin banned than concern towards her alleged kidnapping. Her lies also led to the arrest of her agency owner. Ultimately, Balin Porin and Mofu F agency disappeared, unable to survive the negative scrutiny.
Conclusion
The video concludes by noting the doubt surrounding the matter and questioning whether Balin Porin lied about her abduction for views. Her channel was terminated, but her account remains available to be viewed. The story is portrayed as one of a girl who was thrust into the spotlight and quickly forgotten.