Chinese Livestreamer Ordered to Repay Ex-Girlfriend $6,600 After Breakup

The story began when Li met Deng through a short video platform, and they developed a romantic relationship, cohabiting and presenting themselves as a married couple to the public. During their time together, Li frequently transferred money to Deng via WeChat, totaling over 70,000 yuan, with transactions ranging from as little as 200 yuan to as much as 10,000 yuan. However, their relationship eventually ended in a breakup due to unresolved emotional issues, leading Li to take legal action against Deng, citing "unjust enrichment" as the grounds for demanding the return of all the money she had given him.

The Lianshui Court made a significant ruling, citing the "Provisions of the Supreme People's Court on Trying Cases Involving Disputes over Bride Prices" as the basis for its decision. The court took an active role in guiding both parties to provide comprehensive evidence, meticulously inquiring about the payment details of various expenses and the nature of their relationship. After excluding everyday expenditures that had already been consumed, the court identified the disputed amount to be 45,000 yuan. Following multiple rounds of mediation and counseling, the parties ultimately reached a settlement agreement, bringing the case to a close.

This legal proceeding underscores the complexities of disputes over gifts or monetary exchanges in the context of relationships, especially when they involve public figures. The court's approach emphasizes the importance of detailed evidence and the distinction between consumable expenses and the specific financial obligations in question. The conclusion of this case serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by the legal system in addressing intricate personal and financial disputes, particularly those that garner public attention due to the involvement of high-profile individuals.

The case has sparked a heated debate on social media, with many people sharing their opinions on the relationship between Li and Deng, as well as the financial issues involved. Some netizens believe that Deng should return the money that Li had transferred to him, while others view their relationship as unhealthy and problematic. Some comments expressed sympathy for Li, stating that she was taken advantage of by Deng and that he should be held accountable for his actions. Others, however, criticized Li for being overly generous and not setting clear boundaries in the relationship.

The case has also raised questions about the blurred lines between love and finance in online relationships. Many people have commented that in the age of social media, it's becoming increasingly common for people to use money as a means of expressing affection, which can lead to complicated and potentially problematic situations. Ultimately, the case serves as a reminder that in any romantic relationship, it's essential to maintain a clear understanding of financial responsibilities and boundaries, as one netizen pointed out, "love shouldn't be measured by the amount of money spent, but by the sincerity and respect shown between partners."