Many celebrities have lost significant career opportunities due to their past. Recently, Hong Kong singer William So (蘇永康) had to cancel his sold-out concert in China after netizens discovered his drug arrest from 23 years ago.
Earlier this month, the organiser for William So’s Wenzhou concert announced that the show had been cancelled. The sold-out concert was scheduled for 6th October 2025. The reason for the cancellation was complaints from netizens who learnt about the singer’s past drug case. In 2002, William was arrested at a Taipei pub for drug possession. He was then sentenced to compulsory rehabilitation and served 11 days in jail.
While the case happened over two decades ago, China has little tolerance for celebrities with a history of drug use. Even after the cancellation of his concert, netizens are calling for the government to ban the singer from ever performing in the country. It’s worth noting that William had already performed several shows in China in recent years. However, netizens are now criticising the organisers of the previous shows for not knowing about his drug offence.
A few days after the backlash, William finally addressed the issue. In the statement dated 23rd September 2025 (Tuesday), the singer expressed his sincere apology over his drug case. The 57-year-old said he understood that he can never erase his past, saying, “In the past 23 years, not a single day have I forgotten my mistake. I have never attempted to forget it. Instead, I often think of it to remind myself to take every step in life carefully.”
Additionally, the singer said he hopes his past serves as a reminder to others to be cautious of their words and actions. William also mentioned how he has been constantly working to reshape his life and be a good son, husband and father. He said he has been giving back to society as a way to make up for his past. The star also understood the consequences of his actions and said that he’s not hoping to erase his past, but is trying to correct his mistakes.
Fans have shown support for William after the letter. However, it’s unknown whether his apology can change the opinion of the Chinese citizens. What are your thoughts on this?
Sources: Oriental Daily, Facebook
