Zhang Xuefeng, a well-known entrepreneur and influencer in digital education, died on March 24 at the age of 41 from sudden cardiac arrest, according to a statement released by his company Suzhou Fengxue Weilai Education Technology Co. on March 26.
The announcement said that Zhang felt unwell after going for a run around midday at his company’s facilities. He was taken to a hospital where doctors were unable to revive him. “He was officially diagnosed with sudden cardiac death,” the company said.
Following news of his passing, Zhang’s social media accounts, including Weibo and Xiaohongshu, switched to traditional black-and-white mourning tones. Two days before his death, he had shared online about reaching seven kilometers in one run, bringing his monthly total to 72 kilometers.
Born in May 1984 in Heilongjiang province, Zhang became known as a tutor specializing in university entrance exams and postgraduate programs such as the gaokao—the national college entrance exam in China. His direct style and practical advice made him popular among young people preparing for higher education.
With the rise of online educational platforms, Zhang founded Suzhou Fengxue Weilai Education Technology to provide academic guidance and consulting services. According to reports cited by South China Morning Post in 2024, he amassed more than 30 million followers and built a fortune exceeding $100 million dollars.
His broadcasts focused on helping students make decisions about their academic futures while promoting personal effort and accessible education. News of his death led to an outpouring of tributes from students and colleagues across Chinese social media platforms.
One user wrote on Weibo: “Many of us chose our careers thanks to his advice.” Another added: “His enthusiasm for educating never faded.” The unexpected loss marks what many describe as the end of an era for online education figures who combined teaching skill with entrepreneurship.
