Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

China Arrests 30 Women in Danmei Erotica Crackdown

6/30/2025

27 2

Summary

Story summary

In a bold move, Chinese authorities have arrested over 30 women for creating and sharing "danmei," a genre of gay erotica, citing pornography laws. This crackdown has ignited a fierce online debate about censorship and freedom of expression. Many young authors, mostly in their 20s, are either out on bail or still detained, as this genre continues to defy societal norms.

1 of 1

Story summary

In a bold move, Chinese authorities have arrested over 30 women for creating and sharing "danmei," a genre of gay erotica, citing pornography laws. This crackdown has ignited a fierce online debate about censorship and freedom of expression. Many young authors, mostly in their 20s, are either out on bail or still detained, as this genre continues to defy societal norms.