Three clients involved in the “Red Sister” (or “Sister Hong”) scandal have tested positive for HIV, sparking public concern over a growing health risk tied to one of China’s most talked-about cases in recent years.
A 38-year-old man surnamed Jiao was arrested in Nanjing, Jiangsu, for allegedly engaging in sexual encounters with approximately 237 men while posing as a woman known as “Red Sister.” Some of these encounters were reportedly recorded without consent and distributed via a membership-based online platform.
According to reports, Jiao began cross-dressing online three years ago, using face filters and a voice-changer to portray himself as a gentle, married woman longing for companionship. Under this fabricated persona, he lured men to his home by offering “free sexual services” in person.
It is rumored that as many as 1,691 individuals may have visited Jiao’s residence. The secret recordings and alleged sales of explicit content have sparked outrage over violations of privacy, consent, and escalating public health risks. The clients reportedly include married men, foreigners, fitness coaches, and even educators, fueling intense discussion both in China and abroad. In response, premarital health screenings in mainland China have reportedly surged.
Read more: China's cross-dressing 'Red Sister' lurid tale takes the Internet by storm
Personal Lives Exposed
One of the clients, identified as “Mike,” was seen in one of the leaked videos questioning the gender of “Red Sister,” but ultimately proceeded with the encounter, reportedly saying, “Since I was already there.”
Further investigation by netizens revealed that Mike works as an English teacher at a prestigious kindergarten in Shanghai. Although he claimed to be Canadian, it was later discovered that he is a Ukrainian, allegedly misrepresenting his nationality to secure employment.
Another client, a 25-year-old fitness coach, known online as “Chiyang,” publicly admitted to having had sex with “Red Sister.” Following speculation that Red Sister may have transmitted sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), Chiyang underwent testing. His initial syphilis test came back negative, though a follow-up is required in one month for confirmation.
A third client, seen wearing a leather jacket in the footage, reportedly had a fiancée prior to the incident. Following the exposure of the scandal, the woman broke off the engagement and publicly denounced him on social media.
Another man, nicknamed “Four Seasons Brother” by netizens due to his appearance in videos filmed in different seasons, was shown in the footage appearing at ease with Red Sister. The two greeted each other warmly, with Red Sister frequently asking him caring, personal questions.
How Did So Many Fall for the Scheme?
The case has triggered widespread online discussion over how Jiao managed to lure such a wide range of men. Experts say that “her” soft-spoken and sincere tone, combined with thoughtful gestures such as offering fruit and snacks, helped disarm the clients and earn their trust.
Although it has not been confirmed whether the HIV cases are directly linked to Red Sister, authorities are continuing their investigation.
Read more: Red Sister client pleads to public as life spirals into chaos
