China Media and Entertainment Weekly News Bulletin – ISSUE 27 Week of 2 December 2024
(1) Cryptocurrency Entrepreneur Who Bought Banana Art For $6.2 Million Eats the Fruit in Hong Kong
Justin Sun, a prominent cryptocurrency figure, made headlines by purchasing Maurizio Cattelan’s conceptual art piece, a banana taped to a wall, for US$6.2 million and taking a bite at a recent press conference in Hong Kong.
(2) Jay Chou Leads Global Chinese Streaming Ranking on 2024 Spotify Statistics
Spotify announced Jay Chou as the most-streamed Chinese artist worldwide for the second consecutive year, highlighting the global rise of Chinese pop music.
K-pop label ADOR has filed a lawsuit against girl group NewJeans to enforce their exclusive contract following the group’s claims of mistreatment and emotional distress.
(4) China Actress Fan Bingbing Rents Hong Kong Flat for US$84,000 a Month, Setting Media Abuzz
Chinese actress Fan Bingbing has sparked media speculation about her potential long-term residency in Hong Kong after appearing at a brand event in a striking gown, where she discussed her recent film projects and plans to split her time between Hong Kong and Hollywood.
(5) Singer Pong Nan Vows to ‘Keep Performing’ After West Kowloon Arts Hub Axes Jan Venue Booking
Hong Kong Cantopop singer Pong Nan has vowed to keep performing despite the recent cancellation of his concert at The Box, stating, “you can stop a show, but you cannot stop me.”
(6) Vincent Ho Bags 600th HK Winner a Week Out From International Jockeys’ Championship Defence
Vincent Ho Chak-yiu made history by becoming the 11th jockey to reach 600 career winners in Hong Kong.
(7) Chef Ahn Sung-jae Hosts Chow Yun-fat at His Hong Kong Restaurant
Ahn Sung-jae, Korea’s only Michelin three-star chef, welcomed Hong Kong icon Chow Yun-fat to his restaurant, MOSU Hong Kong, as they shared a glass of wine and a selfie during the evening
(8) Giant Red Ball Popping up Across Hong Kong
A striking red ball, part of “the world’s longest-running street artwork,” is on display at ten locations across Hong Kong from 6 to 15 December.
(9) Hong Kong New Wave Pioneer Ann Hui to Receive Kerala Film Festival Honor
Filmmaker Ann Hui will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 29th International Film Festival of Kerala on 13 December in recognition of her significant contributions to Asian cinema.
(10) BigBang Member Taeyang is Coming to Macau in February 2025
K-pop superstar Taeyang will bring his concert tour, ‘The Light Year,’ to Macau on 15 and 16 February 2025, following a successful series of performances in Hong Kong.
(11) Pokémon Go City Safari is Coming to Hong Kong This December
The first Pokémon Go City Safari will take place in Hong Kong on 7 and 8 December 2024 as it invites fans to explore the city with their favorite Pokémon through a variety of activities.
(12) Nike Unveils Special Edition Air Zoom Vomero 5 Inspired by Fencer Cheung Ka Long
Nike has partnered with Hong Kong Olympic fencer Edgar Cheung to launch a special edition of the Air Zoom Vomero 5, featuring his motto “Don’t lose your way” to inspire young athletes.
(1) Cryptocurrency Entrepreneur Who Bought Banana Art For $6.2 Million Eats the Fruit in Hong Kong
(Photo Credit: Getty Images)
Cryptocurrency entrepreneur Justin Sun has garnered attention by eating the $6.2 million artwork “Comedian” created by Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan, which features a banana taped to a wall. During a press conference at the Peninsula hotel in Hong Kong, Sun, 34, took a bite of the banana in front of a crowd of journalists, proclaiming the experience “iconic.” He enthusiastically noted, “It’s much better than other bananas”.
Sun acquired the banana at a Sotheby’s auction in New York, where he was one of seven bidders. He expressed initial disbelief upon winning the bid, but quickly recognized the cultural significance of his purchase, stating that consuming the banana at the event could enhance its historical context.
In addition to his recent acquisition, Sun announced a US$30 million investment in World Liberty Financial, a cryptocurrency project associated with U.S. president-elect Donald Trump. He also committed to buying 100,000 bananas from the stall in Manhattan where the original banana was sourced, celebrating the link between everyday life and art. Attendees of the press conference received rolls of duct tape and bananas as keepsakes, with Sun declaring, “Everyone has a banana to eat.”
News Source: https://abc7ny.com/post/crypto-entrepreneur-bought-banana-art-62-million-eats-fruit-hong-kong/15607237/
(2) Jay Chou Leads Global Chinese Streaming Ranking on 2024 Spotify Statistics
(Photo Credit: Instagram/ifpi_org)
On 5 December, Spotify announced its much-anticipated 2024 year-end review, in which it confirmed Jay Chou as a dominant force in the global Chinese music industry. The Taiwanese pop star has maintained his position as the most-streamed Chinese language artist worldwide for the second consecutive year and has topped the charts in Taiwan for the sixth straight year.
The report indicates that Chinese pop music has successfully connected with audiences around the world, reaching new markets such as Nigeria, Egypt, and Estonia. In total, four Taiwanese artists featured in the top ten most-streamed Chinese artists, with Jay Chou leading the list, followed by Eric Chou in fourth place, pop band Mayday in sixth, and rock band Accusefive at tenth. Meanwhile, singer JJ Lin claimed the second spot, with Eric Mok and Jackie Cheung coming in third and seventh, respectively.
Meanwhile, Chou’s popular tracks, including “Step Aside” and “Clear Day,” along with his collaboration with Ashin from Mayday on “Won’t Cry”, secured fifth, seventh, and tenth positions in the rankings. Additionally, other emerging artists made their presence known, with Bestards’ “Farewell” reaching fourth place and WeiBird’s “Red Scarf” taking sixth, all of which illustrates further the continuous influence and expansion of Chinese music in the global market.
News Source: https://en.rti.org.tw/news/view/id/2012118
(3) HYBE’s ADOR Label Files Lawsuit Over NewJeans Deal Dispute, Says K-Pop Group’s Exclusive Contract ‘Cannot Be Unilaterally Terminated’
(Photo Credit: Getty Images)
ADOR, a subsidiary of K-pop powerhouse HYBE, has initiated a lawsuit to prevent girl group NewJeans from terminating their exclusive contract, which was seen to have escalated tensions within the South Korean music scene. Filed on 3 December at the Seoul Central District Court, the lawsuit responds to the group’s recent attempts to exit the label. ADOR contends that the current contract is legally enforceable and cannot be terminated unilaterally.
In its latest public statement, ADOR expressed disappointment in having to resort to legal measures, stating it was necessary to affirm that the contract remains in effect despite the group’s assertions. This legal dispute intensified following a recent press conference on 28 November by NewJeans, where member Hanni publicly declared that the label “has neither the ability nor the will to protect” the group, citing emotional distress and a breach of trust as reasons for their intended departure.
The conflict between ADOR and NewJeans is part of a larger internal struggle involving Min Hee-jin, the former CEO of ADOR and the group’s initial creative director. Min was ousted after being accused of attempting to sell company shares and leaking confidential information. NewJeans has also reported feeling mistreated by ADOR staff, with members claiming they overheard instructions to disregard them.
News Source: https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/hybes-ador-files-lawsuit-over-newjeans-deal-dispute-says-exclusive-contract-cannot-be-unilaterally-terminated1/
(4) China Actress Fan Bingbing Rents Hong Kong Flat for US$84,000 a Month, Setting Media Abuzz
(Photo Credit: SCMP composite/Weibo)
Chinese actress Fan Bingbing has stirred considerable media attention following her appearance at a brand event in Hong Kong, which led to speculation about her long-term residency in the city. On 28 November, she captivated netizens in a striking black gown, which drew comparisons to a “villainous queen” and has since ignited discussions about her future plans.
During the event, Fan revealed she had filmed two movies this year: “The Ice Road 2” with Liam Neeson and the Malaysian film “Mother Bhumi”, where she plays a farmer conducting nighttime exorcisms. To prepare for her role, she gained around 6 to 6.5 kilograms but has since lost most of the weight. Expressing her enthusiasm for the Hong Kong film industry, she remarked, “I am among the first batch of mainland actresses to come to Hong Kong to make films”.
Speculation about her future is further fueled by reports that she has rented a luxury property on Barker Road on The Peak for about HK$650,000 (US$84,000) a month. Speaking to the media, Fan indicated plans to split her time between Hong Kong and other locations, including Hollywood. Once one of China’s highest-earning stars, Fan faced setbacks due to a tax evasion scandal in 2018 but has since focused on her international career and remains a cherished figure among her fans on social media.
News Source: https://www.scmp.com/news/people-culture/china-personalities/article/3289029/china-actress-fan-bingbing-rents-hong-kong-flat-us84000-month-setting-media-abuzz?module=perpetual_scroll_0&pgtype=article
(5) Singer Pong Nan Vows to ‘Keep Performing’ After West Kowloon Arts Hub Axes Jan Venue Booking
(Photo Credit: Instagram/bluepongpong/Inmedia)
Hong Kong Cantopop singer Pong Nan has pledged to keep performing despite the cancellation of his upcoming concert. Scheduled for 3 to 5 January 2025 at The Box, the largest blackbox theatre in the West Kowloon Cultural District, the concert was canceled after the venue issued a notice on 27 November. In a social media post, the 46-year-old artist apologized to fans, especially those traveling from abroad, stating, “you can stop a show, but you cannot stop me.”
The cancellation was revealed by the concert’s organiser Sunchase Productions, but no explanation was provided by the West Kowloon Cultural District. Known for his activism during the 2019 anti-extradition bill protests, Pong remains committed to his music career despite the setbacks, as he is set to release a vinyl record this December and plans to sell limited edition merchandise. Ticket holders have been instructed to check their email for information regarding refunds.
This incident has been followed a trend for pro-democracy musicians in Hong Kong, who have increasingly faced difficulties securing performance venues. Other artists, such as Denise Ho and Anthony Wong, have encountered similar issues in the past. The West Kowloon Cultural District Authority has not commented on the reasons for Nan’s concert cancellation.
(6) Vincent Ho Bags 600th HK Winner a Week Out From International Jockeys’ Championship Defence
(Photo credit: Kenneth Chan)
Vincent Ho Chak-yiu made history on Wednesday night at the Happy Valley racecourse by becoming the 11th jockey to reach 600 career winners in Hong Kong. Ho marked the occasion by riding Healthy Healthy to victory in the Class Three Loch Lomond Handicap (1,000m), just a week ahead of his title defense in the Longines International Jockeys’ Championship. After the race, Ho expressed his gratitude to supporters, saying, “It’s a lot of hard work… I’ll keep striving to improve.”
The event also saw Hugh Bowman break a 46-ride winless streak with his win on Gallant Valour in the Class Four Edinburgh Handicap (1,200m). Bowman remarked on the relief of returning to the winner’s circle, stating, “It’s certainly nice to get back on the board with a horse I’ve had a bit to do with.”
Additionally, Mark Newnham’s Fatal Blow triumphed in the Class Four St Andrew’s Challenge Quaich (1,200m), while Ho’s success was complemented by Bowman scoring a double, also winning the Class Three Inverness Handicap (1,800m) aboard Rocket Spade. As the season unfolds, these thrilling victories set the stage for more captivating races in the weeks to come.
(7) Chef Ahn Sung-jae Hosts Chow Yun-fat at His Hong Kong Restaurant
(Photo Credit: Instagram/Culinary Class Wars)
Ahn Sung-jae, the only Michelin three-star chef in Korea and one of the judges on Netflix’s hit show “Culinary Class Wars”, recently welcomed Hong Kong film icon Chow Yun-fat to his restaurant, MOSU Hong Kong. On 3 December, Ahn shared a selfie with Chow on social media, as he revealed that the actor’s visit was a delightful surprise.
To mark this special moment, Ahn accompanied the selfie he took with Chow with the heartfelt message that wrote “I love you, Chow Yun-fat.” During the night, Ahn enjoyed a lively interaction with the actor, which included clinking glasses and cheerful conversations.
In fact, back in March 2024 during a TV interview in Korea, Ahn revealed that his desire to open a restaurant in Hong Kong was inspired by 1990s Hong Kong cinema, which left a profound impact on him during his childhood in the U.S. Growing up as an Asian facing discrimination, he found strength and inspiration in those films, which motivated him to create a culinary experience that reflects the vibrant culture of Hong Kong.
News Source: https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1780865-20241126.htm
(8) Giant Red Ball Popping up Across Hong Kong
(Photo Credit: RTHK)
A striking red ball is on display in various locations across Hong Kong from this Friday through next Sunday, as part of “the world’s longest-running street artwork.” Since its launch in 2001, this massive sphere has traveled to iconic cities like Paris, Chicago, London, and Tokyo. Hong Kong is the 48th stop on its journey, with appearances planned at ten sites, including Central Piers, Hong Kong Museum of Art, Victoria Park, and The Peak.
While many spectators are eager for selfies, a local artist named “Anna” has chosen to sketch the installation. “It’s a one-off opportunity to draw something unique. I love capturing scenes in Hong Kong, and this is a rare chance to do something different,” she noted to the news reporter. Her creative approach invites others to see public art as a source of inspiration and community connection.
Kurt Perschke, the American artist behind the RedBall project, expressed his joy at bringing the artwork to Hong Kong. “I’m excited to see how the local community reacts,” he noted. “Hong Kong is such a vibrant city, and I’ve long wanted to showcase the piece here.” As the RedBall rolls into town, it aims to captivate and inspire residents and visitors alike to engage with their surroundings in new and creative ways.
News Source: https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1782383-20241206.htm
(9) Hong Kong New Wave Pioneer Ann Hui to Receive Kerala Film Festival Honor
(Photo Credit: La Biennale di Venezia/ASAC/Giorgio Zucchiatti)
Renowned Hong Kong filmmaker Ann Hui has been announced the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 29th International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK), a new addition of awards to her impressive accolade in the film industry, which includes the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement from the Venice Film Festival. The award, which comes with a cash prize of INR 1 million (approximately US$12,000), will be presented by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan during the festival’s opening ceremony on 13 December at the Nishagandhi Auditorium in Thiruvananthapuram, India.
At 77, Hui is a pivotal figure in Asian cinema, particularly known for her influence on the Hong Kong New Wave movement. Her extensive career, spanning five decades, has predominantly focused on societal issues, especially the experiences of women in Hong Kong, and delves into themes like gender inequality and the cultural transformations during the region’s shift from British to Chinese governance.
The festival, scheduled from 13 to 20 December, will feature five of Hui’s notable films, including the melodrama “A Simple Life”. By receiving The IFFK Lifetime Achievement Award, Hui will be joining a list of icons such as Werner Herzog and Jean-Luc Godard as recipients of the prestigious award.
News Source: https://variety.com/2024/film/news/ann-hui-kerala-film-festival-award-hong-kong-1236231638/
(10) BigBang Member Taeyang is Coming to Macau in February 2025
(Photo Credit: Taeyang)
After a series of electrifying performances in Hong Kong, K-pop superstar Taeyang is set to head to Macau for his concert tour, ‘The Light Year’. Scheduled for 15 to 16 February 2025, the shows will take place at the 16,000-seat Galaxy Arena, the largest indoor arena in Macau.
This tour marks Taeyang’s first solo venture since 2017 and comes after a successful kickoff in Seoul earlier this year. Having already performed in cities such as Osaka, Tokyo, Sydney, and Melbourne, Taeyang’s return to Hong Kong in October after a seven-year absence was met with enthusiasm and excitement among his fans in the city.
In addition to his solo endeavors, Taeyang recently reunited with fellow BigBang members G-Dragon and Daesung at the MAMA Awards, during which they delivered a nostalgic performance of their classic hits like “Fantastic Baby” and “Bang Bang Bang” for the first time in nearly a decade. In anticipation for his long-awaited appearance, fans are eagerly counting down the days to witness Taeyang’s electrifying performance and celebrate their favorite K-pop icon live on stage.
News Source: https://www.lifestyleasia.com/hk/whats-on/events-whats-on/bigbang-taeyang-macau-concert-details-date-venue/
(11) Pokémon Go City Safari is Coming to Hong Kong This December
(Photo Credit: Pokémon Go City Safari)
The first Pokémon Go City Safari will take place in Hong Kong from 7 to 8 December 2024 to allow fans to explore the city with their favorite Pokémon through special encounters and exclusive activities. Following successful events in cities like Seoul and Barcelona, this edition will coincide with a similar event in São Paulo, featuring Pokémon such as Meowth, Galarian Slowpoke, Drowzee, and Hitmontop.
Covering six themed areas, including Sha Tin, Kowloon City, Tsim Sha Tsui, and Hong Kong Island, the event will have numerous PokeStops at key landmarks such as Cheung Chau and Ngong Ping. Participants will also have the chance to encounter Skiddo, a special Pokémon that will make its global debut at the event.
Tickets are available for a full two-day pass or a one-day ticket with an optional second-day add-on that offers benefits like increased chances of encountering Shiny Pokémon. Moreover, the event is open to both residents and visitors, as it aims to provide a fun-filled weekend for all Pokémon enthusiasts.
News Source: https://www.prestigeonline.com/hk/lifestyle/culture-plus-entertainment/pokemon-go-city-safari-in-hong-kong-date-location-ticket-prices-details/
(12) Nike Unveils Special Edition Air Zoom Vomero 5 Inspired by Fencer Cheung Ka Long
(Photo Credit: Nike)
Nike has teamed up with Hong Kong Olympic fencer Edgar Cheung to launch a special edition of the Air Zoom Vomero 5 that encourages the pursuit of passion and dreams. Set to release on 14 December, the sneaker features Cheung’s motto, “Don’t lose your way”, which he believes will inspire the next generation of athletes to focus on what truly matters.
The sneaker’s design also draws inspiration from Cheung’s fencing roots and vintage aesthetics, as it showcases a cobalt blue and gray-white color scheme with cream edges, while the metallic Swoosh logo symbolizes his golden accomplishments. Moreover, Cheung’s lucky number “1” is engraved on the sole, with his motto on the insole serving as a reminder to stay committed to his goals.
This partnership between Nike and the Hong Kong Olympic gold medalist highlights the brand’s belief that top athletes are driven by a relentless pursuit of their dreams, a mindset that has guided Cheung throughout his journey to defend his gold medal and inspire others to chase their aspirations without limits.
News Source: https://hypebeast.com/hk/2024/12/nike-air-zoom-vomero-5-speical-edition-inspired-by-cheung-ka-long-launch-info
