Hong Kong security office warns foreign journalists over coverage
Hong Kong’s Office for Safeguarding National Security summoned representatives and journalists from foreign outlets, including The New York Times, on Saturday to warn of consequences under the national security law for reporting on last month’s Wang Fuk Court fire and Sunday’s legislative elections. Officials read a statement accusing some international coverage of distorting facts and interfering in Hong Kong affairs, said “Do not say you have not been warned,” and later posted the warning on the office’s website.
📌 Key Facts
- Officials summoned foreign media, including The New York Times, for a Saturday briefing in Hong Kong.
- The statement criticized reporting on the Wang Fuk Court fire that killed at least 159 people and on the Dec. 7 legislative elections.
- The office warned of consequences under the national security law and published the statement online.
📊 Relevant Data
Hong Kong's ranking in the RSF World Press Freedom Index is 140 out of 180 in 2025, reflecting a decline since the imposition of the National Security Law in 2020.
Hong Kong | Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism — Reuters Institute
The 2025 Hong Kong Legislative Council election has no pro-democracy candidates due to vetting processes under the national security framework, with electoral reforms limiting opposition and reducing directly elected seats.
Hong Kong's Sham Elections Expose Beijing's Tightening Grip — Human Rights Watch
The Wang Fuk Court fire is Hong Kong's deadliest since 1948, when 176 people died in a warehouse blaze.
Hong Kong tower fire toll rises to 128, more arrests made — Reuters
At least 21 people have been arrested in connection with the Wang Fuk Court fire, including individuals linked to a construction company involved in renovation work.
Hong Kong leader vows 'justice' as apartment inferno investigators near end of search — CNN
Approximately one-third (33%) of Wang Fuk Court's 4,600 residents are over the age of 65, compared to 23.7% of Hong Kong's overall population in 2025.
Hong Kong fire draws public fury, and tests Beijing's grip on city — NBC News