CHINA: A remarkable story of fate and love has captured the imagination of Chinese social media as a couple recounts how a car accident in late 2023 unexpectedly led to their marriage. According to a recent South China Morning Post report, their tale, full of twists and emotional depth, has left many reflecting on the unpredictable ways life can change.
The man at the heart of the story, 36-year-old Li, and his 23-year-old wife tied the knot in February 2025, but their journey to love began months earlier, on a fateful day in December 2023. Li, driving fast due to a personal emergency, collided with a young woman riding an electric bicycle. After the accident, he rushed to check on her, only to be met with an unexpected response: “No worries,” the woman assured him, despite having suffered a broken collarbone.
Her calm demeanour impressed Li, who found her to be exceptionally kind. Surprisingly, the woman’s parents chose not to pursue compensation, absolving Li of any blame. Out of a sense of responsibility, Li began visiting her daily in the hospital, and the two exchanged personal stories and life experiences. Three weeks later, the woman confessed her feelings for Li, a confession he initially rejected, citing their age difference. However, Li agreed to accompany her to the movies as time passed, telling her he “owed her that for knocking into her.”
By September 2024, the couple had become parents-to-be, and in February 2025, they were married. Li, a businessman, has accumulated debts while his wife, fresh out of university, works at a local milk tea shop. Despite their financial challenges, the couple has found strength in their bond. Li, who previously hadn’t considered marriage, credits his wife for her “bravery” in standing by him.
Their unique love story also illuminates Li’s wife’s and her family’s compassion. Knowing of Li’s financial struggles, the young woman rejected the 188,000-yuan bride price Li had prepared and instead encouraged him to invest the money into his business. The couple now live with her family, a decision that brought them closer to his workplace.
Ironically, Li revealed that the crash that sparked their relationship was the sixth accident he had been involved in within two months, yet it was the last accident he would ever have since meeting her.
Their story has become a sensation on social media, with many expressing admiration and best wishes. “Your story is like the plot of an idol drama. Best wishes to you,” one user commented. Another added, “It was fate that brought them together, despite the circumstances being quite unconventional.”
In a world where serendipity often takes the back seat to chance, Li and his wife’s unexpected journey serves as a powerful reminder of how love can emerge from the most unlikely places.