China Media and Entertainment Weekly News Bulletin – ISSUE 42 Week of 17 March 2025
(1) Tencent Music Integrates DeepSeek AI Amid Copyright Concerns, Reports $2 billion Subscription Revenue Growth
Tencent Music Entertainment has embedded DeepSeek’s AI tools into its streaming platform to enhance music creation and personalization, while reporting record subscription revenue of $2 billion in 2024.
(2) Global Players Flock to FilMart as Asian Entertainment Market Transforms Into Content Powerhouse
Hong Kong FilMart 2025 attracts 750+ exhibitors from 30+ countries, launches AI and producer-focused initiatives, and spotlights Asia’s animation boom and IP-driven content strategies amid evolving distribution challenges.
(3) Hong Kong’s Phoenix Waters and South Korea’s Studio Target Unite to Revitalize Asian Cinema Through Cross-Border Collaboration
Phoenix Waters Productions and Studio Target have formed a strategic alliance to co-develop films and series, beginning with the internationally backed action thriller Shashou, aiming to address industry challenges and expand global reach.
(4) Hong Kong Veteran Stanley Kwan Backs Rotterdam Winner Zheng Lu Xinyuan’s ‘A Stranger at My Door’
Veteran Hong Kong director Stanley Kwan supports Zheng Lu Xinyuan’s sophomore feature A Stranger at My Door, a $1.1 million multilingual drama exploring generational trauma, as it seeks funding at the Hong Kong-Asia Film Financing Forum (HAF).
(5) iQIYI Ventures into Offline Theme Parks
iQIYI is launching its first offline theme park in Yangzhou, aiming to blend digital technology with its film and TV IPs to create immersive entertainment experiences.
(6) Alibaba’s Quark Emerges as AI Contender with Qwen-Powered Revamp, Challenging OpenAI and Startups
Alibaba’s redesigned AI assistant Quark, powered by its Qwen reasoning model, is gaining traction in China’s competitive AI agent market with its multitasking capabilities and deep-thinking mode.
(7) Liu Qingyun Champions Hong Kong Cinema at Asian Film Awards as Yakusho Kōji Vows Industry Legacy
At the 18th Asian Film Awards, Hong Kong star Liu Qingyun’s Best Actor win for Dad underscored his faith in local cinema, while Japanese icon Yakusho Kōji pledged to “repay the film industry” upon receiving a Lifetime Achievement honor.
(8) Cathy Tsui Receives Over HK$2 Billion in Gifts from Lee Shau-kee
Cathy Tsui, daughter-in-law of Lee Shau-kee, received over HK$2 billion in gifts, reflecting Lee’s legacy of generosity.
(9) Chinese Actress Dilraba Dilmurat’s Lost Passport and Visa Found in Japan
Dilraba Dilmurat’s passport and visa were found by a netizen in Japan, sparking online debates about her travel arrangements and document management.
(10) Fiona Sit Overcomes Grief to Continue Concerts
Fiona Sit, deeply affected by the passing of her close friend Khalil Fong, continues her concert tour despite emotional and physical challenges.
(11) Jackson Wang Attends Employee’s Wedding in Humble Setting
Jackson Wang attended an employee’s wedding in a modest setting, showcasing his down-to-earth nature and genuine character.
(12) HK Filmmaker Wong Jing Reveals Story Behind Natalis Chan’s 1990s Assault in Sydney
Wong Jing shares details of Natalis Chan’s assault in Sydney during the 1990s, shedding light on the risks faced by entertainers at the time.
(1) Tencent Music Integrates DeepSeek AI Amid Copyright Concerns, Reports $2 billion Subscription Revenue Growth
(Photo Credit: Shutterstock)
Tencent Music Entertainment (TME) has integrated Chinese AI developer DeepSeek into its streaming services, deploying the technology in songwriting tools, recommendations, and user interactions. The move mirrors Amazon’s collaboration with Suno, despite ongoing legal scrutiny over both firms’ alleged use of copyrighted material to train their AI models. TME’s CEO Ross Liang highlighted DeepSeek’s role in driving “personalized music experiences,” even as critics question the ethical implications of partnering with AI companies accused of IP violations.
The company reported a 26% Year-over-Year surge in paid music subscription revenue to $2 billion in 2024, fueled by 121 million paying users and premium tiers like “Super VIP,” which costs $5.53/month. TME also announced a $1 billion share buyback and a $273 million dividend, underscoring confidence in its strategy to prioritize ARPPU growth over price wars. CFO Shirley Hu noted improved gross margins (43.6% in Q4) from scaling proprietary and AI-generated content, reducing reliance on licensed tracks.
Executive Chairman Cussion Pang emphasized live events and merchandise as critical to deepening fan engagement, citing sold-out concerts and rising demand for “diverse experiences.” TME plans to expand perks for Super VIP subscribers, including exclusive access to events and merchandise, while leveraging its AI-augmented catalog of 216 million tracks to sustain growth amid intensifying competition in China’s live music sector.
News Source: https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/tencent-music-has-integrated-deepseek-into-its-streaming-service-and-3-other-things-we-learned-on-the-companys-latest-earnings-call/
(2) Global Players Flock to FilMart as Asian Entertainment Market Transforms Into Content Powerhouse
(Photo Credit: FilMart)
Hong Kong FilMart 2025 has solidified its status as Asia’s premier entertainment marketplace, drawing a record 750+ exhibitors from 30+ countries, including debut pavilions from Australia, Saudi Arabia, and Vietnam. New initiatives like Producers Connect (a networking and funding platform) and the AI Hub (exploring AI integration in content creation) underscore efforts to address industry shifts. Organizers emphasize the event’s “geocultural advantage,” with expanded ASEAN participation and mainland China’s strengthened presence, including a doubled Shanghai pavilion.
Industry leaders highlighted both opportunities and hurdles: CJ ENM’s Jangho Seo noted Asia’s growing IP influence (Queen of Tears, Ne Zha 2), while producers like Lorna Tee and animators flagged challenges in indie film distribution and streaming platform biases toward genre content. Philippine producer Liza Diño urged dedicated showcases for festival darlings, and Singapore’s Jeremy Chua proposed informal networking formats to boost emerging talent.
A surge in animation content dominates discussions following Ne Zha 2’s $2 billion global success, prompting new animation-focused pitch sessions at the Hong Kong-Asia Film Financing Forum. Meanwhile, FilMart’s Online IP Catalogue (1,000+ listed IPs) and hybrid in-person/digital strategies aim to sustain momentum. With the theme “Dare to change, dare to excel,” FilMart 2025 positions Asia as a nexus for cross-border innovation, blending AI, diverse storytelling, and regional soft power to redefine global entertainment.
News Source: https://variety.com/2025/film/news/hong-kong-filmart-2025-1236335100/
(3) Hong Kong’s Phoenix Waters and South Korea’s Studio Target Unite to Revitalize Asian Cinema Through Cross-Border Collaboration
(Photo Credit: Phoenix Waters/Studio Target)
Hong Kong’s Phoenix Waters Productions and South Korea’s Studio Target announced a strategic partnership during Hong Kong FilMart, formalized through a memorandum of understanding to jointly develop, finance, and produce cross-border film and digital content. Their inaugural project, Shashou, is an action thriller blending classic Hong Kong cinema aesthetics with Western influences, scheduled for production in late 2025. The film, featuring a global cast, has secured backing from Berkeley Media Group and Ostara Pictures, with international sales managed by SC Films International and MENA rights acquired by MAD Solutions.
The collaboration emerges as both regions face industry pressures: Hong Kong seeks new growth avenues, while South Korea contends with escalating production costs. Studio Target CEO Doyeon Julia Kim emphasized leveraging regional resources to create commercially viable content for global markets, while Phoenix Waters CEO Bizhan Tong framed the alliance as a commitment to sustaining Hong Kong and Korean cinema. As part of the synergy, Studio Target will handle the South Korean release of Phoenix Waters’ upcoming film Tape later this year.
The partnership signifies more than just a business agreement. It represents a commitment to building a sustainable future for Hong Kong and Korean cinema. By combining their creative and production strengths, Phoenix Waters Productions and Studio Target aim to develop films and series that resonate globally, showcasing the incredible talent and rich storytelling from these regions.
News Source: https://www.dimsumdaily.hk/hks-phoenix-waters-productions-and-south-koreas-studio-target-forge-strategic-alliance-for-cross-border-film-projects/
(4) Hong Kong Veteran Stanley Kwan Backs Rotterdam Winner Zheng Lu Xinyuan’s ‘A Stranger at My Door’
(Photo Credit: HAF)
Hong Kong auteur Stanley Kwan (Rouge, Center Stage) has endorsed rising filmmaker Zheng Lu Xinyuan’s A Stranger at My Door, selected for the Hong Kong-Asia Film Financing Forum (HAF) during FilMart 2025. The Putonghua-English language film follows amateur director Lee, who confronts her late mother’s history of sexual abuse while navigating a dissolving relationship, encountering solace in a French composer and spectral visits from her mother’s ghost. With a $1.1 million budget, the project seeks co-producers, sales agents, and pre-sales at HAF.
Zheng, whose debut The Cloud in Her Room won Rotterdam’s Tiger Award in 2020, drew Kwan’s support for the script’s emotional depth. “A good script is the key to giving audiences a reason to watch,” Kwan told Variety, emphasizing confidence in Zheng’s ability to balance personal storytelling with universal themes. The director’s follow-up to Berlin-premiered essay film Jet Lag (2022) continues her exploration of fractured identities and intergenerational silence.
Zheng described the project as an attempt to unearth buried truths: “When I find myself part of this ignorance, that frustration makes me doubt what some of us have been through.” She aims to forge intimate audience connections, hoping the film makes viewers “a bit less lonely.” The collaboration marks a symbolic passing of the torch between generations of Asian arthouse auteurs, blending Hong Kong’s cinematic legacy with mainland China’s emergent indie voices.
News Source: https://variety.com/2025/film/news/stanley-kwan-zheng-lu-xinyuan-a-stranger-at-my-door-1236335327/
(5) iQIYI Ventures into Offline Theme Parks
(Photo Credit: iQIYI)
iQIYI, often compared to Netflix, is taking a step closer to Disney’s business model by launching its first offline theme park in Yangzhou, expected to open within the year. The park will feature various immersive experiences, leveraging advanced digital technologies and iQIYI’s own intellectual properties (IPs) to attract visitors. This move aligns with iQIYI’s strategy to diversify its revenue streams and capitalize on the growing demand for cultural and recreational tourism.
The decision to enter the theme park industry is driven by the potential for significant revenue, as evidenced by the success of Disney and Universal Studios. iQIYI aims to create a unique entertainment ecosystem that extends beyond online streaming, offering a blend of digital and physical experiences. The theme park will include various attractions such as holographic light spaces, immersive theaters, and interactive film sets, complemented by themed dining and merchandise.
Despite the ambitious plans, iQIYI faces challenges such as developing a robust IP portfolio and gaining operational expertise in theme park management. However, the company is committed to refining its initial offerings and expanding globally, drawing inspiration from Disney’s successful model. The theme park is seen as a crucial step in iQIYI’s long-term strategy to enhance its brand and explore new avenues for IP monetization.
News Source: https://36kr.com/p/3214048520939012
(6) Alibaba’s Quark Emerges as AI Contender with Qwen-Powered Revamp, Challenging OpenAI and Startups
(Photo credit: Shutterstock)
Alibaba’s revamped AI assistant Quark has sparked widespread attention on Chinese social media since its relaunch last week, transitioning from a search-and-storage tool to a multifunctional AI agent powered by the company’s proprietary Qwen reasoning model. The upgraded Quark autonomously deploys features like content generation, data analysis, and complex problem-solving based on user intent. Sohu founder Charles Zhao Chaoyang notably endorsed its performance, praising its ability to answer intricate cosmology questions via its “deep-thinking mode,” which leverages Qwen’s advanced logical processing.
The relaunch positions Quark as Alibaba’s answer to emerging AI agents like Butterfly Effect’s Manus and OpenAI’s Deep Research, which automate tasks using self-directed resource allocation. Analysts view Quark’s contextual awareness – such as drafting travel itineraries with real-time weather integration – as a strategic differentiator. This aligns with Alibaba’s broader push to monetize foundational AI models across its cloud, e-commerce, and enterprise services, while countering domestic rivals like Baidu’s Ernie Bot.
Despite early acclaim, Quark faces challenges in scaling user adoption amid China’s crowded AI landscape. Its success hinges on sustaining technical parity with global leaders while addressing data privacy concerns – a priority given Alibaba’s enterprise client base. With Tencent and ByteDance accelerating AI agent development, Quark’s performance could determine whether Alibaba reclaims its mantle as China’s tech innovator-in-chief during the industry’s “AI agent arms race.”
(7) Liu Qingyun Champions Hong Kong Cinema at Asian Film Awards as Yakusho Kōji Vows Industry Legacy
(Photo Credit: Ming Pao Weekly)
Hong Kong actor Liu Qingyun clinched Best Actor at the 18th Asian Film Awards for his role in Dad, a locally produced drama directed by Philip Yung. During his acceptance speech, Liu emphasized pride in Hong Kong cinema, stating, “Dad is a Hong Kong film—thank you to this ‘family’ for making my performance possible.” He humorously consoled his young co-star, who lost the Best Newcomer category, adding, “I’ve never even been nominated as a newcomer! Keep going—I believe in Hong Kong films.” Backstage, Liu reaffirmed his optimism despite industry challenges, noting Hong Kong cinema’s resilience through “multiple winters.”
Yakusho Kōji, honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award, reflected on his career’s twilight: “With limited time left, I must consider how to give back to this industry that shaped me.” Best Actress went to India’s Shahana Goswami (Santosh) for her “invisible acting,” while Taiwan veterans Lee Kang-sheng (Silent Watch) and Yang Kuei-mei (The Missing) won supporting accolades. Yang vowed to “keep acting as long as audiences watch,” and Lee quipped about embracing配角 roles as he ages.
Japan’s Yoshida Daihachi won Best Director for The Enemy, and Hong Kong’s Twilight of the Warriors: Walled City swept technical awards. Tang Wei and Jang Dong-gun received the Asian Cinema Excellence Award, with Tang calling Hong Kong her “lucky place.” Wu Kang-ren, despite joking about his age, accepted the AFA Next Generation Award to mentor newcomers. The ceremony, held at Xiqu Centre, crowned India’s Riders of the Light Best Film, signaling Asia’s diverse storytelling power amid global recognition.
News Source: https://www.mpweekly.com/entertainment/article/劉青雲對港產片有信心-役所廣司思考如何報答電影
(8) Cathy Tsui Receives Over HK$2 Billion in Gifts from Lee Shau-kee
(Photo Credit: IG@cathy_chui_official)
Lee Shau-kee, the billionaire founder of Henderson Land and a prominent figure in Hong Kong’s real estate industry, passed away at the age of 97. Known for his immense generosity, Lee left behind a legacy that included substantial gifts to his family, particularly his daughter-in-law, Cathy Tsui. Tsui, married to Lee’s son Martin Lee Ka-shing, received over HK$2 billion in various forms of gifts over the years, including luxury properties, yachts, land parcels, and significant cash outlays.
Tsui, a former actress, has been part of the Lee family for 19 years and has given birth to two sons and two daughters. Each birth was celebrated with extraordinary generosity from Lee. For instance, when Tsui gave birth to her first daughter, Lee distributed over HK$15 million in cash-filled red packets. Following the birth of her second daughter, he gifted the family a mansion and established a HK$50 million education fund. For his grandsons, Lee purchased land worth HK$1.82 billion to build family homes and set up HK$300 million trust funds.
Lee’s acts of generosity extended beyond his immediate family, reflecting his broader philanthropic efforts. His legacy is marked by his contributions to both his family and society, showcasing his commitment to supporting those around him. Tsui’s receipt of these lavish gifts underscores the deep familial bonds and the culture of generosity that Lee fostered throughout his life.
News Source: https://www.dimsumdaily.hk/daughter-in-law-cathy-tsui-received-over-hk2-billion-in-gifts-as-lee-shau-kee-leaves-a-legacy-of-generosity/
(9) Chinese Actress Dilraba Dilmurat’s Lost Passport and Visa Found in Japan
(Photo Credit: Weibo@Dear-迪丽热巴)
Renowned Chinese actress and singer Dilraba Dilmurat faced an unusual incident when a netizen discovered her passport and visa outside a café in Tokyo. The discovery, which included detailed information and a photo on the visa page, led to widespread speculation and debates online regarding the handling of her travel documents. Her team swiftly confirmed the passport’s authenticity, clarifying that the visa was from a previous trip and not currently valid, and assured that Dilraba has no imminent travel plans to Japan.
Despite the team’s response, fans expressed discontent over the incident, criticizing the management for alleged mishandling of the artist’s documents. Concerns were raised about the vigilance of Dilraba’s team, especially given the casual setting in which the passport was found. The incident, tagged as “#Netizen Finds Dilraba’s Visa in Japan,” fueled discussions about the security and management of her travel documents.
The discovery also sparked debates on social media, with fans suggesting that the documents might have been misplaced during a recent advertisement shoot in Japan. As the incident unfolded, it highlighted the importance of proper document management for celebrities and the potential risks associated with mishandling sensitive information.
News Source: https://www.dimsumdaily.hk/chinese-actress-dilraba-dilmurats-lost-passport-and-visa-found-in-japan-by-netizen/
(10) Fiona Sit Overcomes Grief to Continue Concerts
(Photo Credit: Southern Metropolis Daily)
On 16 March, a staff member from Fiona Sit’s concert team revealed that Sit has been struggling with intense grief following the death of her close friend, Khalil Fong. The staff member mentioned that Sit has been in tears constantly and has even experienced episodes of hypoxia, requiring oxygen support. Despite these challenges, Sit insisted on continuing her concert tour as scheduled, demonstrating her commitment and responsibility as an artist.
During her performance in Nanning on 15 March, Sit was visibly emotional, breaking down in tears multiple times. She struggled to sing “Do You Understand Me,” and had to restart the song after losing control of her emotions. When performing “Suzhou River,” a song written by Fong, she was overcome with grief and had to pause to regain her composure before continuing.
Many artists have paid tribute to Khalil Fong in their concerts recently. Eason Chan, for instance, performed Fong’s “Lonely Patient” and sang “See You There” acapella at his concert in Sydney. Sit, who had not publicly addressed Fong’s passing until 8 March, expressed her sorrow in a heartfelt post while announcing her concert tour, which sparked mixed reactions among fans.
News Source: https://m.mp.oeeee.com/oe/BAAFRD0000202503171060282.html
(11) Jackson Wang Attends Employee’s Wedding in Humble Setting
(Photo Credit: LINE TODAY)
Jackson Wang, a member of the South Korean boy band GOT7, recently attended the wedding of a company employee, demonstrating his humility and approachability. The wedding took place in a modest restaurant rather than a high-end venue, highlighting Wang’s effort to blend in and not overshadow the couple on their special day. Dressed in casual black attire and a cap, Wang’s presence at the wedding was a testament to his genuine character and respect for his team.
Wang’s attendance at the wedding has garnered positive attention, reflecting his commitment to maintaining strong relationships with his staff. Despite his rising popularity and busy schedule, Wang made time to celebrate this significant moment with his employee, further endearing him to fans and the public. His actions underscore the importance he places on personal connections and loyalty within his professional circle.
This gesture comes amid Wang’s impressive career trajectory, which includes overcoming personal challenges such as a battle with depression. His ability to remain grounded and supportive of his team, even as he achieves greater success, sets a positive example for others in the entertainment industry. Wang’s down-to-earth nature continues to resonate with fans worldwide, enhancing his reputation as a beloved and relatable celebrity.
News Source: https://news.qq.com/rain/a/20250318A09N3S00
(12) HK Filmmaker Wong Jing Reveals Story Behind Natalis Chan’s 1990s Assault in Sydney
(Photo Credit: Singtao.com)
Veteran Hong Kong filmmaker Wong Jing recently disclosed details about an incident from the 1990s involving Natalis Chan. During a trip to Sydney to attend a concert by fellow entertainer Alan Tam, Chan was attacked by a group of men in a private dining room. Wong explained that the assault was allegedly linked to Chan’s earlier refusal to star in a film, possibly due to low pay or poor attitudes from those involved. The individual behind the offer had strong connections in Australia, which led to the orchestrated attack.
Wong recounted that three to four men surrounded and beat Chan, while others outside the room indicated they were armed. The attackers did not intend to kill Chan but aimed to deliver a warning. This revelation highlights the dangers entertainers faced during that era, even when engaging in professional collaborations abroad. Wong’s account provides a rare glimpse into the challenges and risks associated with the entertainment industry at the time.
Wong’s disclosure has sparked discussions about the pressures and threats faced by entertainers, emphasizing the need for better protection and support for those in the industry. Chan’s experience serves as a reminder of the complexities and potential dangers that come with fame.
News Source: https://www.dimsumdaily.hk/hk-filmmaker-wong-jing-reveals-the-story-behind-natalis-chans-1990s-assault-in-sydney/
