HONG KONG – COILAR member Li Lingjun, known professionally as Sumling, has released a new single titled “Ms. Icy,” drawing directly from her experience portraying the character Icy in the stage production “Hello, Robbery! Return.” The song explores a woman’s struggle to break free from a harmful relationship, culminating in a moment of decisive departure.
Sumling, who for the first time wrote, directed, and starred in the song’s music video, said the inspiration came during her second run performing the role. “When I revisited the script, I realized Icy’s situation mirrors the real experiences of many women,” she explained. “They are trapped in unhealthy circumstances—uncomfortable, yet unable to leave. On the surface, a gun is holding her hostage, but in reality, it’s her own fear, her habits, or the uncertainty of what comes after leaving that keeps her confined.”
The artist emphasized that Icy transcends a mere theatrical character, representing a broader female condition. “Ms. Icy” aims to capture the exact moment of choosing to walk away. “The escape route was always nearby, but she just couldn’t face it before,” Sumling said. “By playing Icy again, I hope to help others in similar situations find their own exit.”
A Grueling Creative Process
Taking on the dual role of director and performer proved demanding. Sumling disclosed that she spent roughly two months preparing the music video. “Working behind the camera for the first time felt incredibly exposing,” she said. “The responsibility of a director is immense. As an actor, you just deliver on set. As a director, you set the standard yourself. I constantly questioned myself: Is this shot long enough? Is the emotion real enough? Is the pacing too slow?”
The most memorable aspect of filming, she noted, was securing a cameo by Ruan Wenjie—the director of “Hello, Robbery! Return”—who originated the character Icy in the stage play. “He created Icy, and on shoot day, he came to witness her ending,” Sumling recalled. “Bringing a character born from his hands to the seaside felt like a closed loop finally complete.”
Broader Impact
The single arrives amid a growing cultural conversation in Hong Kong and across Asia about domestic abuse and the psychological barriers that keep individuals in toxic dynamics. By framing the narrative through a theatrical lens, Sumling offers audiences both an artistic and emotional entry point into a sensitive subject. Mental health advocates have praised the song for normalizing discussions about leaving harmful relationships, noting that art can help dismantle stigma.
“Ms. Icy” is available now on major streaming platforms. Sumling hinted that the song may be part of a larger project exploring women’s inner lives, though she has not confirmed details. For listeners seeking support, resources such as the Hong Kong Federation of Women’s hotline and RainLily provide confidential assistance.
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