The Chinese University of Hong Kong has publicly refuted claims made by a self-styled media figure, Zhang Long, who identified himself as the "chief editor of Western China News Network" and asserted he held the title of visiting professor at the institution.
According to a statement issued by the university, it received media inquiries regarding Zhang Long's alleged appointment. A thorough search revealed no employment records for Zhang Long in any capacity, and the university confirmed it has no employment, teaching, or authorization relationship with him whatsoever. The statement further clarified that any promotional activities, collaborations, or events conducted under the guise of a "Chinese University of Hong Kong Visiting Professor" are entirely unrelated to the university, which reserves the right to pursue legal action against those making false representations or damaging its reputation.
Hong Kong media reported that in late November 2023, Zhang Long claimed on his personal Weibo account that he had been appointed as a visiting professor by the university's Faculty of Arts. A photograph of a purported "letter of appointment" also circulated online. Subsequent posts on his social media showed him repeatedly leveraging this title for various engagements.
The authenticity of this document, however, has come under scrutiny. While the letter superficially resembled a university degree certificate and bore signatures of relevant officials, media analysis indicated that such appointments are internal matters and would not typically include the signatures of the university's Chancellor or Vice-Chancellor. Adding to the discrepancies, the university's official website shows that it does not have a "Faculty of Arts" as claimed.
Zhang Long's Weibo account, which is verified and describes him as the "News Director and Chief Editor of Western China News Network," also showcases appointment certificates from other organizations. These include roles as "Media Consultant and Vice Dean" from a Shaanxi provincial broadcasting and film association's art research institute, and "Cultural Consultant" for a scenic area management committee. The veracity of these other documents could not be independently verified.
The title of "Chief Editor of Western China News Network" appears to be his most prominent public identity. According to online profiles, the network was reportedly established in January 2005 as part of a larger Western China media group, purportedly supported by provincial governments and enterprises. However, a search of the official list of licensed internet news units published by the Cyberspace Administration of China does not include this outlet.
Despite the doubts, Zhang Long has received other academic appointments. In May 2025, he was appointed as a visiting professor by the Lu Xun Art College at Yan'an University, and in April 2024, he was engaged as an external professor by the Film and Television Art College of Hebei Academy of Fine Arts. While the latter announcement has since been removed, it remains accessible via search engines.
An online article praising Zhang Long as a "legendary figure" and a pioneer in Chinese brand promotion features numerous photographs of him with celebrities such as Jackie Chan, Eric Tsang, and Jia Pingwa. The article lavishes him with superlatives, describing him as an exceptional cultural figure in an era of rampant "fake culture" and noting his supposed extraordinary influence in the media and cultural sectors.
Attempts by reporters to seek comment from Zhang Long on the university's denial and his network's credentials were unsuccessful. Direct messages sent to his Weibo account and a phone call placed to a number associated with his company went unanswered. His last social media activity was on August 14, promoting an original song, where he described himself as a "cultural scholar and original music artist."