THREAD: yeung sum hong

HONG KONG Freedom Faces Dark Days: Democratic Party Pressured to Disband

12 April 2025 — The Democratic Party of Hong Kong, once a symbol of pro-democracy, is nearing its end. Co-founder Yeung Sum admitted the harsh truth as Chinese officials pushed for its disbandment. This marks a major blow to Hong Kong’s promised freedom and rights since the 1997 handover from Britain.

The 2019 protests led to a harsh crackdown, silencing voices through strict elections and media control. China’s national security law jailed some party members and shut down many civil groups. Yeung Sum showed his reluctance but urged members to support disbandment to avoid harsh penalties.

Party veteran Fred Li confirmed similar pressure from Chinese officials, hinting that joining future legislative elections would be impossible if they stayed active. Founding member Sin Chung-kai reported local warnings about potential fallout if the party continued existing.

The dissolution highlights a turning point in Hong Kong’s political scene as Beijing tightens its hold on the region’s autonomy and freedoms.

HONG KONG Artist’S Paintings Capture City’S Bold Transformation

28 March 2025 — Hong Kong artist Chow Chun-fai’s latest works at Art Basel capture the pivotal night in 1997 when Hong Kong returned to Chinese rule. This event marked the end of British colonialism and the start of a new era under China. Since 2020, China’s national security law has stifled dissent, prompting many to emigrate.

Chow chose to stay in Hong Kong, continuing to document its evolving identity through art. His paintings at Art Basel revisit memories from the late 1990s and early 2000s, highlighting a time when Hong Kong was vibrant and open. “We are living through such a momentous time ourselves now,” Chow stated ahead of the exhibition.

Chow is known for his creative reinterpretations of classic movie scenes that provoke reflection on Hong Kong’s history and identity. He also gained attention for running against pro-establishment candidates in past elections, though he did not win.

His Art Basel pieces focus on significant news events like the 1997 handover and China’s rise as an Olympic host nation in 2008, drawing inspiration from stories covered by former journalist Sharon Cheung. These works underscore Chow’s commitment to capturing his city’s complex narrative amid political changes.

HONG KONG Surge Ignites Asian Market Boom

20 March 2025 — Hong Kong is leading a major surge in Asian markets, sparking excitement and strong trading. Big gains are seen in Japan, India, and Malaysia. Indonesia trails slightly behind.

This market shift lines up with possible geopolitical changes, including hints from former President Trump about a potential visit from President Xi to Washington DC. Such moves could impact international relations and economic plans.

China’s tech giants like Alibaba and Tencent are seeing big gains thanks to positive domestic consumption outlooks. This growth shows the strength of China’s tech sector amid global uncertainties.

NIO’s partnership with CATL signals more growth in the tech industry, boosting investor confidence across Asia. The collaboration highlights the region’s focus on innovation and technological progress.

UK’S SILENT Treatment Over Jailed Hong Kong Activist Jimmy Lai: A Shameful Betrayal?

21 September 2023 — Sebastien Lai, son of the imprisoned Hong Kong media tycoon and pro-democracy advocate, Jimmy Lai, has publicly expressed disappointment at the UK government for its apparent indifference. His father, a British citizen and founder of the now-closed pro-democracy newspaper Apple Daily, has been held captive since 2020 under Beijing’s national security law. If convicted, senior Lai could face life in prison. He has already been handed a separate sentence of five years and nine months.

Originally set to begin last December, the trial has experienced multiple delays by court officials. It is now slated to kick off on Dec. 18th. Sebastien Lai and his legal representatives have labeled this case as a “show trial.” They suggest that Hong Kong authorities might prolong the trial due to their weak case against Lai and their desire to prevent him from expressing his views during an expected public hearing that could last two or three months.

Sebastien also criticized Britain’s government for its mild language in condemning his father’s extended detention period. He described the UK’s stance towards China as inconsistent — with some officials decrying Beijing’s human rights record while others prioritize preserving China as a trade partner over human rights issues.