Hong Kong adult film actress So Hoi-ling, also known as Erena, made headlines once again on May 10, 2025, when she held a highly publicized meeting with her critics, dubbed 'haters.' The event was originally scheduled to take place on the bustling streets of Mong Kok but was moved indoors after she received a notification from law enforcement the day before, prohibiting any outdoor gatherings.
So Hoi-ling, who has gained both fame and notoriety since her debut in the adult film industry, aimed to confront nine individuals who have frequently criticized her online. Her intention was clear: to engage directly with those who have hurled insults at her, hoping to understand their motivations and perhaps even foster a dialogue.
Despite her efforts, the turnout was disappointing. Out of the nine invited critics, none showed up. Instead, two fans masqueraded as haters to demonstrate their support for So Hoi-ling. This unexpected twist led to a rather humorous exchange, as one of the fans, claiming to be a hater, initially criticized her membership plan priced at 699 HKD for 30 days. However, the conversation quickly shifted, and the same individual ended up complimenting her looks, leaving So Hoi-ling amused and urging him to leave for not being a credible critic.
In an interview following the event, So Hoi-ling expressed her disappointment, stating, "I wanted to understand their hearts, why they say such things. I also wanted to see if they would have the courage to say it to my face. Sometimes, you can't gauge tone through text." She added that she found it intriguing that despite their harsh words online, they chose not to confront her in person.
So Hoi-ling’s determination to engage with her critics stems from her experiences of online bullying and harassment. Since entering the adult film industry, she has faced significant backlash, yet she has remained unapologetically herself, often responding to her haters in a straightforward manner. The actress has been vocal about her desire to break the stigma surrounding adult entertainment and to challenge the negative perceptions often associated with it.
During the event, So Hoi-ling also addressed her safety concerns. Accompanied by two bodyguards, she noted that her public appearances are carefully managed. "I’m not afraid of haters harming me because I rarely disclose my whereabouts," she remarked. It was clear that her resolve to confront her critics was not solely about seeking understanding; it was also about asserting her presence and reclaiming her narrative.
Reflecting on the absence of her actual haters, So Hoi-ling stated, "I was really looking forward to this discussion. I wanted to know why they keep attacking me, especially when I’ve never harmed them. I can brush off comments about my weight or looks, but being called a 'chicken' is something I want to understand. How do they define that?" Her candidness highlighted a desire for clarity and perhaps a hope that engaging with her critics could foster a more constructive dialogue.
As for her future projects, So Hoi-ling revealed that she is making good progress on her upcoming photobook. She has plans for a four-day event, three days of which will feature free admission, while one day will have a fee. Furthermore, she intends to auction five paintings with various themes, with a portion of the proceeds going to non-profit organizations. This initiative reflects her commitment not only to her career but also to giving back to the community.
So Hoi-ling's decision to publicly invite her haters for a face-to-face meeting was met with mixed reactions. While some applauded her bravery and willingness to confront negativity head-on, others questioned the effectiveness of such an approach. Critics argued that engaging with haters might only serve to give them the attention they seek. Nevertheless, So Hoi-ling remains undeterred, asserting that her actions are about standing up for herself and challenging the status quo.
In a world where online interactions often lack accountability, So Hoi-ling’s initiative to meet her critics in person serves as a bold statement. It raises important questions about the nature of online discourse and the impact of anonymity on people's behavior. By choosing to confront her haters directly, she is not only advocating for herself but also highlighting the importance of dialogue in addressing conflict.
As the event concluded without the intended participants, So Hoi-ling expressed her hope to try again in the future. "I might apply for a permit again next year. I want to give it another shot because I believe in having these conversations," she said. Her determination to engage with her critics, regardless of the outcome, speaks volumes about her character and her commitment to her values.
The absence of real haters at the event may have been disappointing, but it did not deter So Hoi-ling from continuing her journey in the public eye. As she navigates the complexities of fame and criticism, her actions serve as a reminder of the power of resilience and the importance of understanding in an increasingly polarized world.
