The usually COVID-conscious Wang Leehom faces a fine of up to NT$300,000 (S$14.5K) for violating COVID-19 restrictions after a photo of him at a gathering went viral.

The 45-year-old Mandopop star, who had just returned from the United States, completed his 14-day quarantine in Taipei on September 16. The same day, Taiwanese singer-actress Vivian Hsu shared pics of Leehom at a gathering at her home with celeb pals Blackie Chen and his wife Christine Fan, as well as music producer Eric Chen, to celebrate the end of his quarantine.

Although Leehom had completed his quarantine, according to health rules in Taiwan, he was required to monitor his health for another seven days and is not allowed to partake in group activities or gatherings. He was also not supposed to leave his home unless absolutely necessary.

The Taipei City Government confirmed on Saturday (Sep 18) that Leehom had indeed violated COVID-19 restrictions and that he faces a fine ranging from NT$10K (S$485) to NT$300,000 (S$14.5K)

Vivian has since deleted the pics and posted an apology.

Leehom also apologised for his failure to understand the self-health management rules and said that he would bear all responsibilities for the breach.

Thank you netizens and the media for the reminder. I had completely overlooked the seven-day self-health management period after the quarantine period. I’m very sorry. I will bear all responsibilities for violation and will complete the remaining three days of self-health management, he wrote.

Photos: Wang Leehom/Instagram