According to Znews, Sinchew Daily reported that the controversy began during a social media livestream in which Wang discussed his daughter’s summer camp fee, prompting Ma to comment that the amount seemed expensive.

Her comment quickly triggered backlash. Many netizens accused Ma of being frugal with her stepdaughter while frequently indulging in luxury purchases for herself.

“Why aren’t her designer clothes considered expensive?” one user wrote.

“Spending tens of thousands on high-end fashion is fine, but paying a few thousand for a child’s education is too much?” questioned another.

In response to the criticism, Ma issued a public clarification. She explained that the fee in question was actually 2,000 yuan per hour, not for the entire camp, and emphasized that it had been paid long ago.

“It was just a casual conversation between parents,” she said. “Thank you for being so invested in our family—as if it’s your own.”

Following her clarification, many social media users came to her defense, noting that Ma has shown consistent care and affection toward Wang’s children. She has often been seen accompanying them on outings, and reportedly maintains a close bond with them.

On Mother’s Day celebrated in May this year, Wang’s son even gave Ma a card that read: “Thank you for always taking me on trips. Happy Mother’s Day.”

Wang, 44, and Ma, 26, registered their marriage in May 2024 and held their wedding ceremony in May 2025. Wang was previously married to Hsu from 2011 until their divorce in 2021. The former couple share two children: 11-year-old Wang Hsi Yueh and 9-year-old Wang Hsi Lin.

After the split, Hsu rekindled a past romance with South Korean musician DJ Koo, 55, and the pair married in Feb. 2022.