Huang Yong was born on November 18, 1974, in Henan, China. Huang, originally a migrant worker from southern China, transitioned to agricultural labor across the region after completing his service in the Chinese Army.

In September 2001, Huang Yong started to lure young boys from video halls, Internet cafes, and video arcades. He offered to recommend them for well-paying jobs or to help fund their schooling or sightseeing tours. Once the boys arrived at his house, Huang drugged them and strangled them with a rope. He sometimes revived them multiple times to torture them before ultimately killing them.

Huang explained to investigators that he chose to target boys. He believed that killing women or girls would make him feel less like a "hero." He also said he did not kill elderly men because they were too smart and aware of what was happening.

The case came to light in November 2003 when a 16-year-old boy named Zhang Liang reported to the police. Initially, investigators were doubtful of Zhang's story. He claimed that Huang invited him to his apartment by offering a job. Once there, Zhang said Huang strangled him to the point of unconsciousness three times. After he regained consciousness, Huang reportedly said, "I killed at least 25 people. You're number 26." Zhang managed to convince Huang to let him go, and Huang gave Zhang money to get home. Zhang then chose to report the incident to the police.

After Zhang's report, police took his claims seriously and arrested Huang. In December 2003, Huang was convicted of 17 murders. He was sentenced to death on December 9, 2003, and executed by a bullet to the head on December 26, 2003. After his execution, authorities found two more bodies in Huang's home. Huang's motive was noted when he said, "I've always wanted to be an assassin since I was a kid, but I never had the chance."