Paid news related to IPOs has been rampant since the startup board was introduced in 2009. When preparing to be listed on the board, companies hope to avoid negative news about them curbing the process, so they will bribe media outlets and portal sites. Considering the influence of the two media companies involved, namely Roya and 21cbh.com, the case should be a warning to the media industry.

caixin.com, Sept 4

As the so-called "fourth power" of society, the media plays an essential role in social supervision. Journalists in China have made enormous contributions to society by uncovering many scandals, such as expired food or recycled gutter oil being used in restaurants. However, the media should be supervised by society, too, so that it won't fall astray. Legislation is needed to regulate journalists' behavior and protect their rights.