A Chinese children’s military camp sparked controversy over child abuse.
According to the South China Morning Post (SCMP) on Monday, a video of harsh training at a military-style training children camp in southern China caused controversy online. The SCMP reported that some are calling it “Genesis devil training.”
The video reveals an instructor repeatedly pushing an 11-year-old boy’s head in water while his hands are tied behind his back. The boy, led by the instructor’s hand, was kicking in the water. When his speed slowed, the instructor shouted, “Faster! Faster!”.
The camp director defended the routine as “training to overcome the psychological barriers of children who are afraid of water,” adding that “the depth of the swimming pool water is 90cm (about 3 feet), so there is no risk of the child drowning and the water is clean.” He also explained that all training is broadcast for parents to watch.
However, a Chinese psychological therapist, Ma Li, expressed concern that such methods could leave psychological trauma on the children.
According to the SCMP, the video was filmed last summer. The camp has been held annually since 2018, attracting 500 to 600 children. Depending on the length of stay, the cost varies from 2,000 to 7,000 yuan (US$280-US$960).
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