Li Xinshi Expelled by Dalian Tech: Zeus Scandal Sparks University Policy Debate

Dalian University of Technology (DUT) is expelling student Li Xinshi for an "improper relationship" with Ukrainian esports player Danylo "Zeus" Teslenko, following an incident involving shared private content in December 2024. This severe disciplinary action, citing "severely negative impact" and damage to national/institutional reputation, has ignited significant online debate regarding university policies, personal conduct, and the broader implications of online exposure. The case raises critical questions about fairness, privacy, and the evolving role of universities in student lives.

University Disciplinary Action

• Dalian University of Technology (DUT) announced its intention to expel student Li Xinshi, effective through a public notice on July 8, 2025.
• The expulsion stems from an alleged "improper relationship" with Ukrainian esports player Danylo "Zeus" Teslenko during a December 2024 Counter-Strike 2 tournament in Shanghai.
• DUT cited Li Xinshi's actions as causing a "severely negative impact," referencing Article 19 of its "Regulations on Disciplinary Punishment for Students" concerning interactions damaging national or institutional reputation.
• Li Xinshi has until September 7, 2025, to appeal the decision.

The Core Incident and Parties

• The controversy began when Danylo "Zeus" Teslenko reportedly shared intimate videos and photos of himself with Li Xinshi on his Telegram channel.
• Online investigations revealed both Li Xinshi (in a relationship) and Zeus (married) were not single at the time of the encounter.
• Zeus's alleged comments about Chinese women further contributed to widespread public criticism.
• The incident occurred on December 16, 2024, during a CS2 tournament in Shanghai.

Public Debate and Criticisms

• Significant debate surrounds the university's justification for expulsion, particularly the interpretation of Li Xinshi's actions as damaging "national dignity" and "institutional reputation."
• Critics question whether an individual's private life should be grounds for expulsion unless it directly violates university rules or causes significant disruption.
• Many question the fairness and accountability, specifically why Zeus has not faced similar repercussions given his actions of sharing private content and alleged comments.
• Legal experts suggest the university's regulations might be selectively applied, diverting focus from Zeus's potentially more egregious actions.

Broader Context of Esports and Social Impact

• The incident occurs within the context of esports' significant growth and government recognition in China, including university-level majors.
• The industry faces scrutiny regarding player conduct and potential negative social impacts.
• DUT's decision may be an attempt to distance itself from controversy and uphold a specific image, especially in a public-facing industry like esports.

Consequences and Future Implications

• Li Xinshi faces profound implications for her academic and professional future due to the expulsion and social stigma.
• The case raises important questions about the balance between university disciplinary power, individual privacy, and freedom of expression.
• It serves as a stark reminder of how quickly personal events can become public spectacles in the digital age, with severe consequences for those involved.