World · Singapore Bureau
Yang Guo Fu Group apologises for unauthorised use of celebrity names
The Chinese restaurant chain has issued an apology after one of its outlets displayed congratulatory flower stands bearing the names of Japanese celebrities without permission. The incident has drawn scrutiny over the brand's use of well-known figures' identities for promotional purposes.
LSN Singapore ·
Yang Guo Fu Group, the popular Chinese restaurant chain, has apologised for an unauthorised use of Japanese celebrities' names at one of its establishments. The controversy centred on congratulatory flower stands displayed at the restaurant that bore the names of prominent Japanese public figures, a practice that proceeded without the consent or knowledge of those named.
The incident came to light after images of the flower arrangements circulated online, prompting questions about the restaurant's promotional practices and intellectual property compliance. The use of celebrity names and likenesses for commercial purposes without explicit authorisation raises concerns about potential violations of privacy and publicity rights.
In response to the backlash, Yang Guo Fu Group issued a statement acknowledging the breach and expressing regret over the matter. The chain committed to strengthening its internal oversight procedures to prevent similar incidents from occurring in future operations across its restaurant network.
The apology underscores growing sensitivity in the region regarding the proper and ethical use of public figures' identities in commercial settings. Restaurants and businesses across Asia have increasingly faced scrutiny from consumers and regulators over unauthorised celebrity endorsements and misleading promotional tactics.