He posted a long TikTok.
Koreaboo
Popular Wonder star Simu Liu spoke out about a cultural appropriation controversy that erupted after his appearance CBC‘S The Dragons’ Den on October 10th. In the episode, Liu — who was featured as a guest investor — expressed concern about a pitch by two Quebec City entrepreneurs for their ready-to-drink bubble tea business called “Bobba.”
The founders of the company, Sebastiano Fiset AND Jess Brakessought an investment of $1 million in exchange for 18% equity in his company. They claimed their product offered a more convenient and “healthier” version of the popular Asian drink, including innovations such as the first ready-to-drink alcoholic bubble tea and a takeaway boba popping option.
However, Liu took issue with the fact that the company had no clear Asian representation or consultancy involved in its creation or marketing, something he believed was critical for a product with deep cultural ties to Asia. He highlighted his discomfort with the idea of “improving” a drink that has significant cultural importance to many, particularly the Chinese community.
There is a question of cultural appropriation. There’s the issue of taking something that is distinctly Asian in its identity and quote, quote-unquote “making it better,” which I have a problem with.
—Simu Liu
@itskathleenngo I don’t usually post content like this, but here I am. #culturalappropriation #bobba #simuliu #dragonsden
♬ Original sound – ♡ °. ︎Kathleen ♡︎.°
Although one of the entrepreneurs explained that a Taiwanese partner was involved in developing the recipe, Liu remained dissatisfied and ultimately refused to invest. He stressed that while he supports bringing bubble tea to a wider audience, he would not support a company that doesn’t respect its cultural origins.
I’m studying your can and I’m looking for something that tells me where Boba comes from and where Boba comes from is Taiwan. You know, I started this venture capital firm for many reasons, but really primarily to uplift minority entrepreneurs.
And not only do I have a feeling that this isn’t happening here, but that I would be helping a company that profits from something that seems so dear to my cultural heritage. I want to help bring boba to the masses, but not like this. So, for that reason, I’m out.
—Simu Liu
@cbcgem This bottled bubble tea business caters to the famous dragon Simu Liu and the rest of the dragons (📺: Dragons’ Den) #dragonsden #simuliu ♬ original sound – CBC Gem
After the episode, the situation quickly gained traction online, with many people weighing in on both sides of the debate. Fans not only criticized the entrepreneurs, but some even felt that the other investors on the panel did not fully support Liu’s concerns about cultural appropriation.
On October 12, Liu took to TikTok to address the growing controversy. He expressed his disappointment at reports that the founders of “Bobba” had received hostile comments and threats, urging people to engage in education and constructive criticism rather than resort to attacks.
Overnight I felt like I was on the other side of the internet dog pack, and it’s one of the worst things you can face.
— Simu Liu via TikTok
He also clarified the reactions of his fellow investors, explaining that the fast pace of recoveries does not always allow for comprehensive answers. Liu reassured fans that both the show’s crew and other investors supported his views, even if they weren’t entirely apparent on camera.
I also want to tell some of my classmates [investors] we caught some strays and… We have so little time to formulate our responses… Actions that happen in the blink of an eye and we can’t film them because the camera is rolling and so… Can I tell you for a moment the fact that the show, the producers and crew were so supportive of what I had to say. And as for other investors, everyone in the break room was all ears.
— Simu Liiu via TikTok
@simuliusosome thoughts on boba/bobba 🧋let’s be kind to each other!♬ original sound – Simu Liu
The video has since made the rounds on social media, particularly TikTok, with fans thanking Liu for stepping in once again.
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