Chinese socialite found dead after drowning in Bali

According to Chinese news site Hongxing News, a local rescue team found Huang’s body near Petitenget beach on Wednesday.

It is reported that the Chinese socialite was missing since the previous day as he drowned in the sea. His Ukrainian model wife, Karina Melnychuk, tried to save him but was unable to.

Chinese socialite Huang Xiaofeng (R) and his Ukrainian model wife Karina Melnychuk. Photo from Melnychuk's Instagram

A member of the rescue team said Huang may have got a cramp in his legs.

Authorities have reportedly contacted Huang’s family to complete the identification process.

Sources said Huang and Melnychuk were enjoying a vacation with their friends in Bali in celebration of Huang’s birthday, which was on Nov. 7.

His accident caused a public shock in China, as the topic attracted over 7 million views on Chinese social media platform Weibo in just a few hours.

Huang, 35, has released various best-selling novels. He was also famous for his short films and commercial films.

Melnychuk, 30, is a famous model and cosplayer.

The couple married seven years ago and have a daughter.

A female author accused Huang of lying that he had divorced and having an extramarital affair with her last year, which both Huang and Melynychuk denied.