On 3/7, Liu, 27, a chef with seven years of experience at Liang's barbecue restaurant, posted a photo of a torn debt note on social media. The image quickly went viral, revealing a humane story between the owner and his employee following a fire incident.

The fire occurred in late April when Liu forgot to turn off a stove under an oil pan during a shift change. The blaze rapidly spread to the warehouse and private dining rooms. The chef attempted to extinguish the fire using blankets and fire extinguishers, but his efforts were unsuccessful.

Firefighters eventually brought the blaze under control. While no injuries were reported, the incident caused extensive damage to the restaurant's facilities. Throughout May, the staff diligently cleaned and gathered materials to prepare for reopening.

Liu's (27) debt note was torn up by owner Liang. *Photo: Jimu News*

Feeling deep remorse for the significant damage, Liu wrote a debt note to Liang. He proposed a deduction of CNY 3,000 (USD 440) from his monthly salary until the full amount of the damage was repaid. The chef signed, dated, and fingerprinted the document.

Upon receiving the note, Liang decided to tear it up. "This debt could affect his future and his family," Liang stated, "so I chose to bear all losses myself so we can rebuild together."

Liang's "people-first" business philosophy draws inspiration from Yu Donglai, founder of the renowned Pangdonglai retail chain in Trung Quoc. This company attracts loyal customers through excellent welfare policies, including ten days of leave for emotional distress and "unjust compensation" of up to CNY 30,000 (about USD 4,400) for employees who experience unfair treatment from customers.

Liang consistently pays his staff above-average salaries. Even during the period of operational shutdown caused by the fire, he continued to provide full living allowances to his employees.

Liu bows in gratitude to owner Liang after he tore up the debt note for burning down the restaurant in Zhengzhou, Henan. *Photo: SCMP*

Following Liang's generous decision, other employees voluntarily contributed money for the restaurant's repairs. The landlord reduced the rent. A food delivery company provided startup capital, and a property management team offered assistance with store renovations. Customers from across the region also visited the restaurant to show their support.

This is Liang's 16th business venture. He invested his personal savings into this establishment, postponing plans to purchase a home for his family to ensure the business's continuity.