BEIJING — Canadian athletic apparel company Lululemon has apologized after a promotional yoga event held on China’s Great Wall sparked criticism over the apparent use of a Japanese-style drum during a performance that was presented as a celebration of Chinese culture.
The controversy emerged following a yoga festival organized by Lululemon on May 30 at the Huanghuacheng section of the Great Wall near Beijing, according to Chinese media reports and statements from the company. The event featured Chinese actor Zhu Yilong, a Lululemon brand ambassador, who participated in a drum performance during the gathering. Critics on Chinese social media later alleged that the instrument used resembled a Japanese taiko drum rather than a traditional Chinese drum.
Lululemon issued a public apology on June 16 through its official account on the Chinese social media platform Weibo, acknowledging shortcomings in its review process and cultural assessment of the performance. The company said the event had been intended to honor Chinese culture but that it had failed to identify potential concerns during planning.
“Due to limitations in our professional knowledge, we were unable to fully identify potential controversies initially,” the company said in its statement. Lululemon added that it recognized it “should have been more cautious and thorough” in planning and reviewing the drum performance.
The issue gained significant attention online after musicians and social media users questioned whether the drum used at the event was Japanese in origin. Some commentators argued that the distinction carried particular sensitivity because the performance took place at one of China’s most recognizable national landmarks. Discussions related to the controversy drew widespread attention on Weibo, according to Chinese media reports.
Zhu’s studio also called on the company to review the matter, saying the actor and his team had consistently supported the promotion of traditional Chinese culture. The percussion troupe involved in the performance later issued its own apology, according to multiple media reports.
Lululemon said it had removed all promotional materials connected to the performance from its website and social media channels. The company also pledged to strengthen its review procedures for future events and said it would take a more rigorous approach to cultural considerations in its marketing activities. As of Thursday, no further action had been announced by the company, and details of any additional internal review remained unclear.
