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mainland Chinese student

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Mainland Chinese student's admission facilitated by bribed professor, leading to professor's jail sentence.

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A mainland Chinese student's admission to a postgraduate program at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) became the subject of a legal case involving bribery. The student, whose qualifications were reportedly insufficient, gained admission through the actions of Professor Liu Hongbin. Professor Liu, who held a position as chair professor, accepted a bribe of HK$40,000 and offered red packets to colleagues to facilitate the student's enrollment. This act of corruption led to Liu's arrest and subsequent sentencing. A Hong Kong court sentenced Liu to 20 weeks in jail, citing his abuse of authority and the tarnishing of the city's academic reputation. The case highlights concerns about academic integrity and the potential for undue influence in university admissions, particularly concerning international students.
Last updated: May 28, 2026