Culture clash or cyberbullying? Influencer, foreign teacher fired after food vlog sparks outrage

A Scottish influencer and English teacher in Hong Kong, Kate, has been dismissed after posting lifestyle and food videos that drew criticism online.

“Just one” Controversy

Kate, who arrived in Hong Kong this year, explored local cuisine on social media while amassing over 70,000 followers. Most of her videos focused on Hong Kong’s local food, often featuring affordable street snacks. 

She drew widespread attention after a video uploaded three days ago showed her at a chestnut vendor. She tried to buy a single chestnut and offered a HK$500 note, but the vendor refused and gave her the chestnut for free.

The clip sparked online debate, with netizens criticizing her behavior of buying small items with large bills, effectively forcing the vendor not to accept payment and causing inconvenience. 

The video also reignited attention on her previous controversial actions. In earlier videos, netizens accused her of disrespecting local culture, including walking against escalator traffic, littering, filming inside temples, and refusing to learn basic Cantonese.

In a video posted today, Kate confirmed she was fired due to concerns over student safety and the school’s reputation. She plans to return to the UK.

Supporters Criticize Cyberbullying

Some netizens defended Kate, saying online attacks and personal shaming have crossed the line into cyberbullying. 

Supporters noted that she has lived in Hong Kong for only six months and argued that the criticism was disproportionate. Kate defended herself by giving a tip, explaining that while Hong Kong has no tipping culture, she offered small tips to compensate for not speaking Cantonese, showing her awareness of local customs. 

Some also pointed out that Kate has Asperger’s Syndrome, which can cause social challenges and rigid behavior. Her consistent style and difficulty understanding Hong Kong’s complex social norms may stem from this condition.