A woman in Shenzhen has accused a popular spa of refusing to compensate her for an injury unless she first removed her negative review and complaint about the incident.
The dispute involved the viral wellness centre known as Tangqi Tangquan Life, located near Futian Port in Shenzhen, which has become a popular destination among visitors seeking relaxation and spa treatments.
According to reports, the woman, identified only by her surname Chen, visited the spa on May 23 and entered a salt-steam room where guests are required to go barefoot.
After finishing her session, Chen was preparing to put her shoes back on when she accidentally stepped on an exposed nail hidden in a floor mat. The nail pierced her left foot, causing bleeding and immediate pain.
She reportedly removed the nail herself before staff provided basic first aid using disinfectant. Concerned about the injury, Chen later sought treatment at a hospital affiliated with Sun Yat-sen University, where she received medical attention and a tetanus vaccination.
Following the incident, Chen contacted the spa seeking compensation for her medical expenses, transportation costs and lost income. However, she claimed the business initially offered only 300 yuan (approximately RM177) in compensation and allegedly insisted that she delete her negative online review and withdraw her complaint before any payment would be made.
Unhappy with the condition attached to the compensation, Chen refused to comply, resulting in a deadlock between both parties.
The dispute remained unresolved until local media became involved. Reports said the spa changed its position shortly after journalists contacted management.
Within an hour, the business reportedly reimbursed Chen 276 yuan (approximately RM163) for her medical and transportation expenses. In addition, a 300-yuan voucher (approximately RM177) originally offered by the spa was converted into cash compensation.
The total compensation amounted to 576 yuan, or approximately RM340.
The incident has sparked discussion online, with many social media users criticising businesses that allegedly attempt to pressure customers into removing negative feedback before addressing complaints.
The spa has not publicly commented further on the controversy.
