On November 23, economist Ma Guangyuan posted several Weibo messages discussing the company-wide letter written by New Oriental Education & Technology (EDU) founder Yu Minhong from Antarctica.

Ma Guangyuan expressed strong support for Yu, stating, "Lao Yu's letter is well-written! It strikes a balanced tone—neither arrogant nor servile—and doesn’t pander to online sentiment!"

He further remarked, "Why do media outlets label Lao Yu's latest letter as 'another apology'? Clearly, the main content of the letter is an 'explanation,' not an apology! Moreover, the letter outright rejects narratives that pit bosses against employees."

Lastly, Ma reposted a news article titled "#Yu Minhong's Internal Letter Apologizes Again#: Mutual Success Between People and Companies Is the Best Relationship" with the comment, "For Lao Yu, going to Antarctica is as simple as visiting Sanya—what’s there to boast about? Yet some interpret it as showing off."

Previously, Ma had published an article titled "Lao Yu in Antarctica Isn’t Wrong, Nor Are Employees—It’s the Era’s Narrative That Has Changed." In it, he noted, "Lao Yu had many reflections in Antarctica. On the company’s 32nd anniversary, he genuinely wanted to weather storms alongside employees and reach new horizons. Besides, what’s the big deal if someone like Lao Yu visits Antarctica? He has the financial means—the over 1 million yuan cost is trivial for him. In fact, he was there for work."

Ma emphasized that storytelling can turn events into positives or negatives. "Had the letter described the hardships of Antarctica—near-death experiences—but also revealed insights into company growth or ways to improve employee welfare, it might not have sparked such backlash from overworked staff or public controversy. Lao Yu isn’t wrong, nor are employees—it’s just that the era’s narrative has truly shifted."