The Chinese fashion world is in mourning following the sudden death of troubled influencer Zhang Chun at the age of 29. Known online as Ni De Du Kou, she passed away after suffering heart problems, her mother confirmed.
A Sudden Collapse and Underlying Health Issues
Zhang Chun fell critically ill in the early hours of January 1. She was rushed to hospital, but medical professionals were unable to save her. Her mother announced the tragic news following her funeral on Monday, stating it was a 'sudden death'.
Her mother revealed that Zhang had an underlying heart condition. She also pointed to her daughter's long-standing habit of staying up late, suggesting her lifestyle may have been a significant contributing factor to her untimely passing.
Rise to Fame as the 'Sneaker Goddess'
Zhang first found fame in 2018 after sharing photographs of herself wearing different trainers with meticulously matched outfits. Dubbed 'the Sneaker Goddess', her clean-cut university student image helped her stand out in China's competitive fashion and streetwear scene.
She amassed over a million followers and successfully ventured into entertainment, performing at numerous hip-hop events. However, her career took a severe downturn when her self-created fashion brand collapsed, leaving her heavily in debt. Reports indicate she struggled with depression during this period.
Public Scrutiny and a Troubled Final Year
Zhang's public image suffered further damage in 2024 when fans reacted angrily to her decision to join an adult content platform to help pay off her debts. This move led to a significant loss of followers and intense online abuse.
In a deeply personal and distressing livestream last year, Zhang broke down in tears and revealed she had contracted syphilis. She explained the sexually transmitted disease caused severe skin problems and showed viewers her badly ulcerated left arm.
Zhang Chun was cremated in Shanghai on Monday. Her death has sparked conversations online about the pressures faced by influencers, the impact of debt, and the importance of health amidst demanding lifestyles.
