Zhang Ziyi wins $50K libel suit

Chinese actress Zhang Ziyi was awarded HK$390,000 ($50,278) compensation when she won a lawsuit against two Hong Kong media outlets on Monday, Southern Metropolis Daily reported.

Zhang took Apple Daily and Next Magazine to court after they reported Zhang had been banned from leaving the Chinese mainland and was involved in extensive sexual trade with senior officials and tycoons on the mainland in 2012.

The reports were false and seriously damaged her reputation at home and abroad, Zhang said.

Hong Kong high court ruled in Zhang's favor plaintiff after the defendants failed to offer any testimony.

The defendants committed libel, the court verdict said.