Video footage posted on social media by members of the audience showed fans being dragged out of the auditorium by security guards, reportedly for reasons including waving pro-LGBT flags, dancing, or simply just standing up.

The New Rules singer appeared visibly upset about the behaviour of the guards, and on Thursday, she revealed on Instagram that she was "horrified" by what she witnessed.

"Last night I did it for my fans. A promised show. I stood by them, sang with them and danced with them," she wrote. "I will stand by you all for your love and beliefs and I am proud and grateful that you felt safe enough to show your pride at my show. What you did takes a lot of bravery.

"I always want my music to bring strength, hope and unity. I was horrified by what happened and I send love to all my fans involved. I would love to come back for my fans when the time is right and hopefully see a room full of rainbows. I love you Shanghai."

In a clip posted online, the 23-year-old seemed near to tears as she told the crowd she wanted them to have a good time and a dance "in a safe environment" and asked for them all to "really, really, really enjoy ourselves" during the last few songs left in the set.

One user shared footage of a guard hauling a girl away by her arm and wrote, "I just CANT believe it. This is the show of Dua Lipa in Shanghai. All the fans are forbidden to stand out and could only sit on to see the show?!? If you don't, the guard would use violence to kick u out. It's unbelievable (sic)."

Dua's shows in Shangahi and Guangzhou marked her first China tour. She is due to perform in the Philippines on Friday.