Han Han, a popular author and race car driver, intends to write a column for the New York Times, according to a prominent publisher. (Photo/CFP)
Controversial writer and racing driver Han Han intends to write a column for the New York Times, said Shen Haobo, president of China's largest private publisher, Beijing Motie Books, on Monday (March 21), according to a report from the state-run Global Times.
Han told Shen that arrangements between him and the New York Times have been basically confirmed. Han will write in Chinese and the newspaper will translate the articles into English.
Regarding Han's first piece, the publisher said the article may focus on Robin Li, the CEO of China's internet search giant Baidu.
Han Han was among a number of writers who recently protested against Baidu allowing internet users to download the works China's popular authors without permission, accused the company of violating their copyright.
Han, also a professional racing driver, is known for tackling sensitive issues in a subtle way without getting into trouble with authorities.
"It is interesting to see what Han's article will be like translated into English," said an internet user going by the name Aimilong. Other netizens also said they would be eager to read Han's column in the US newspaper.