They were caught on multiple occasions.
Chinese actress Zhang Ya Qin has become embroiled in dating rumors after paparazzi photos allegedly showing her on a date with director Derek Hui (Xu Hong Yu) were released online.
According to Chinese entertainment bloggers, the photos were published earlier than originally planned, quickly spreading across social media and sparking speculation about the pair’s relationship. The images reportedly show Zhang Ya Qin and Derek Hui spending time together before being seen holding hands at a hotel lobby as they left for another location.
Other photos also captured Zhang acting playfully and affectionately toward the director during a casual park walk, further fueling romance rumors.
The paparazzi exposed it ahead of schedule. The rumored romance between the popular young actress and the top IP director is #ZhangYaqin and #DerekHui (#XuHongyu). Zhang Yaqin is seen acting cute with Derek Hui, and the couple was spotted holding hands as they left for a date. pic.twitter.com/18DAna2Y6g
— C-Ent Updates (@CEntxirs) July 14, 2026
The alleged couple quickly climbed trending searches, with many netizens expressing surprise over the reported pairing. Derek Hui is known as one of the industry’s rising IP drama directors, having worked on several popular adaptations. They previously worked together on Us In Wonderland.
Neither party has publicly addressed the dating rumors.