Luo Yonghao Reveals ADHD Diagnosis After Chaotic Shanghai Event

Luo Yonghao, a well-known Chinese entrepreneur and online influencer, revealed he has been managing Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) for years, following a poorly executed annual tech event in Shanghai that saw significant delays and on-stage errors.

The "2025 Technology Innovation Sharing Conference," hosted by Luo, was scheduled to begin at 7pm on December 30. However, Luo arrived over 40 minutes late, and his presentation was marred by several uncharacteristic mistakes, prompting repeated apologies throughout the event.

Despite the chaotic opening, Luo proceeded to share his picks for annual standout tech products. These included DJI's Neo 2 drone, labeled the "Year's Best Simplified Drone," the HyperShell as "Best Exoskeleton Product," and the Bambu Lab 3D printer as "Best 3D Printer." He also held a live debate with Doubao, an AI assistant.

In a surprise move, Luo announced a full refund for all attendees. Tickets for the event had been priced between 300 and 1,000 yuan (US$43-143). The total ticket revenue of 1.66 million yuan would be personally donated by Luo to the "Tai Po Hong Fuk Yuen Assistance Fund" of the Hong Kong SAR Government, with the names of all 3,500 attendees listed as donors, according to the Shanghai Securities News.

Early this morning, Luo revealed he has been managing ADHD for years with medication on Weibo. "I've relied on medication to maintain my condition for a long time, but now even the maximum dosage isn't very effective anymore," he wrote.

Luo further described work habits likely linked to his condition, admitting he never rehearses presentations, often completes slideshows just before going on stage, and is currently battling declining energy. The post was widely seen as an explanation for the delayed and erratic conference opening.

Luo Yonghao first gained fame as a popular English teacher at New Oriental and later as a sharp-tongued online influencer. In 2012, he founded smartphone company Smartisan Technology. Despite a loyal following, the venture ultimately failed amid intense market competition and financial difficulties, leaving Luo with personal debts reportedly totaling billions of yuan.

He later mounted a comeback primarily through live-stream e-commerce, repaying his debts publicly. Earlier this year, he sparked another online dispute by criticizing the chain restaurant Xibei for its widespread use of pre-made dishes, triggering a heated social media feud.