A Chinese influencer, Li Zhuofan, was arrested for fraud after generating more than 50 million yuan (about $7 million) from selling “wish candles” touted as being able to attract love, wealth, or career success.
Known for having participated in the Russian show The Battle of PsychicsIn her online posts, where she claimed to possess paranormal abilities, Li amassed over 600,000 followers on Chinese social media. Upon returning to China, she began selling handcrafted candles decorated with crystals and dried flowers, infused with essential oils, each purported to possess a specific power.
Prices started at 2,888 yuan (approximately $420) and could reach 7,888 yuan for certain so-called "triple chance" versions. Simultaneously, the influencer offered online divination courses and released videos reinforcing her image as a psychic.
The case came to light after a customer, having spent 5,888 yuan hoping to attract more customers to his business, filed a complaint when the scheme failed to produce results. Prosecutors believe the amount collected exceeds 50 million yuan. In China, fraud of a particularly high amount can carry a sentence of more than ten years in prison, along with fines and asset confiscations.
The rise of an “emotional comfort” economy
Despite the arrest, links to similar candles continue to circulate online. This phenomenon is part of a broader boom in the metaphysical economy in China: crystals, tarot, astrology, and tools combining artificial intelligence and traditional divination are appealing to young people facing intense social and professional pressures.
In January, a tool combining Bazi astrology and financial market-inspired charts went viral. Other unusual products have emerged, such as “bank earth” supposedly meant to attract prosperity. Even temples are now offering “blessed” drinks to appeal to a younger audience.
However, experts warn of the risks. According to Zhang Yong, a specialist in adolescent mental health, these products primarily sell an illusion of certainty to young people searching for guidance. He fears that some will end up delegating their important decisions to predictions or algorithms, blurring the line between entertainment and reality.
Online, the debate is heated. Some denounce it as a “tax on gullibility,” while others defend these practices as a form of psychological support. For many, these objects promise more than just luck: they offer, at least temporarily, a sense of comfort.
