ZHENGZHOU: A six-year-old boy in China was left alone in a hotel room for over two weeks after his mother disappeared, sparking widespread concern online.
A viral video reposted on Douyin, the child had checked in with his mother in February, but she gradually stopped returning before eventually vanishing completely in March, leaving him without any contact information.
During his time alone, the boy survived with help from hotel staff, who took turns buying him meals and keeping him company.
In a moment that went viral, the boy was heard speaking to a smart speaker, expressing his longing for his mother. One cleaner became especially close to him, acting as a temporary guardian by playing and spending time with him during her shifts.
The boy was reunited with his mother on March 24, who cited illness and financial struggles as reasons for her absence. Despite the ordeal, the boy forgave her, saying he wanted to grow up to protect her.
Authorities have since placed him with a foster family, while legal experts noted the mother could face action under child protection laws.
