Hong Kong calls for investigation after protest song played at rugby game in Incheon

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Published: 14 Nov. 2022, 17:33

Hong Kong calls for investigation after protest song played at rugby game in Incheon

The Hong Kong government has criticized the Asian Rugby Seven Series after a song associated with the territory’s protest movement was played in place of the Chinese national anthem during a match in Incheon on Sunday. [SHUTTERSTOCK]

Hong Kong’s government has criticized the Asian Rugby Seven Series after a song associated with the territory’s protest movement was played in place of the Chinese national anthem during a match in Incheon on Sunday.

“The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government strongly deplores and opposes the playing of a song closely associated with violent protests and the ‘independence’ movement in 2019,” a press release from the Hong Kong government said.

Video footage from the Sunday game appeared to show the song “Glory to Hong Kong” playing in place of the Chinese national anthem “March of the Volunteers.”

“Glory to Hong Kong” is a protest march that became popular in 2019 and is regularly sung at demonstrations. The lyrics specifically highlight the suppression of human rights and democracy and call for the liberation of Hong Kong.

A spokesperson for the Hong Kong government called for an investigation into the incident.

“We have already written to the Hong Kong Rugby Union last evening demanding them to deal with this matter seriously, launch a full and in-depth investigation and submit a detailed report, and convey our strong objection to Asia Rugby, who is the organizer of the Series.”

The press release from the Hong Kong government said Asia Rugby has already apologized for the incident and appeared to pin the blame on the Korean organizers of the event, saying that “the mistake was caused by human error of a junior staff of the local organizer.”

Hong Kong won the game, which was against hosts South Korea, 19-12.

BY JIM BULLEY [jim.bulley@joongang.co.kr]