China Media and Entertainment Weekly News Bulletin – ISSUE 90 Week of 2 March 2026
(1) Everything you need to know about Asia Coffee Music Fest’s Hong Kong debut
Asia Coffee Music Fest brings 30+ Asian coffee brands, competitions, rare brews, live Sony Music performances, and food stalls to Kai Tak Sports Park from 6-8 March.
(2) Meta sues Brazil, China advertisers over celebrity deepfake scams
Meta sued Brazilian and Chinese entities for using AI deepfakes of celebrities to promote scam products like unapproved supplements and fake investments on Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp.
(3) Hong Kong vinyl bars spread analogue music culture by offering ‘a glimpse into the past’
Hong Kong’s rising vinyl bars like Coda, AER, and 8055 offer a nostalgic escape from digital streaming, blending jazz, electronic music, whisky, and community vibes for young and old fans alike.
(4) Hong Kong group brings ancient Silk Road murals’ musical depictions to life
The Hong Kong Gaudeamus Dunhuang Ensemble revives ancient Mogao Caves music through modern compositions by young talents, earning official recognition and international tours to promote Chinese heritage.
(5) Chinese social media bans female Uygur comic over marriage jokes – sparks backlash
Chinese censors banned Uyghur comedian Xiao Pa’s Weibo for a joke on marital drudgery, igniting debate over free speech.
(6) Hong Kong Cinema Shines at Dublin International Film Festival 2026 with Award-Winning Films and Networking Events
Brussels ETO promoted Hong Kong films “Four Trails” by Robin Lee and “The Arch” by Tang Shu-shuen at the Dublin International Film Festival 2026.
(7) Meet Michelle Mao, who plays ‘evil’ stepsister Rosamund Li in Bridgerton’s season 4
Michelle Mao, born in 1998 and raised in Hong Kong and Beijing, plays the spoiled stepsister Rosamund Li in Bridgerton’s latest Cinderella-inspired season.
(8) Joji has announced a Hong Kong date for his global ‘Solaris’ arena tour
Joji’s ‘Solaris’ world tour brings his first Hong Kong show on November 27, featuring hits from his new album Piss in the Wind and past favourites.
(9) SEVENTEEN rocks Kai Tak Stadium with thrilling HK concert, delighting fans with playful stage moments
SEVENTEEN delivered a dynamic and engaging show at Kai Tak Stadium for their “NEW_” world tour, thrilling Hong Kong fans with powerful performances.
(10) WestK FunFest returns with giant cat installations, family-friendly shows, and more experiences
WestK FunFest 2026 offers family-friendly art, theatre, giant cat installations, puppet shows, and live music from March 19 to April 12 at West Kowloon Cultural District.
(11) China actress, 75, triggers debate by playing teenage girl in mini-drama, kissing young man
75-year-old actress Liu Xiaoqing’s kiss scene as an 18-year-old with a 30-years-younger co-star in a mini-drama ignited debate over age norms, with critics decrying discomfort.
(12) HK film mogul Charles Heung confirms leaving inheritance to daughter-in-law, sons excluded
Hong Kong film tycoon Charles Heung and wife Tiffany Chen will bypass sons Jacky and Jonathan in their inheritance plan.
(1) Everything you need to know about Asia Coffee Music Fest’s Hong Kong debut
(Photo Credit: Courtesy Asia Coffee Music Fest)
The Asia Coffee Music Fest (ACMF) is coming to Hong Kong for the first time, taking place from March 6 to 8 at Kai Tak Sports Park (East Village). The event combines two things that many people can’t live without, coffee and music. Visitors can look forward to a weekend filled with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, exciting live performances, and a chance to experience different coffee cultures from all around Asia in one spot.
More than 30 well-known coffee brands will be part of the festival, with roasters and baristas from Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Taiwan, Malaysia, the Philippines, mainland China, and of course, Hong Kong. Local coffee names like Hushush Coffee, Taste Trigger, and Urban Coffee Roaster will join international favourites such as Brewman Tokyo, Doan, and Blend Kyoto. The festival will also hold several coffee competitions, including the Latte Art Championship and the Coffee Roasting Championship, featuring expert judges and world-class baristas from across the globe.
In addition to the competitions, ACMF will feature two special exhibits, the ‘Exclusive’ and ‘Discovery’ zones, where visitors can try rare and limited coffees from places like Panama, Colombia, Peru, Yunnan, and Ethiopia. For food lovers, there will be plenty of options at the on-site marketplace with popular eateries such as Cinnabon, The Baker & The Bottleman, and Birria Y Birria offering delicious snacks and meals. Visitors can also take part in workshops, such as the Coffee Aroma Block Workshop, which teaches ways to repurpose used coffee grounds into natural deodorisers for home use.
Music will play a big part throughout the event thanks to Sony Music’s collaboration. Each day will feature live music from artists under the Sony label. Acts like Andy, Michael C, Lagchun, Wooly, Phil Lam, and Cath Wong will perform across the three days, ensuring there’s always something lively on stage. Whether you’re a dedicated coffee lover, a music fan, or just someone looking for a fun weekend activity, ACMF promises a relaxed yet exciting atmosphere filled with good drinks, great performances, and plenty of energy.
News Source: https://www.timeout.com/hong-kong/news/everything-you-need-to-know-about-asia-coffee-music-fests-hong-kong-debut-030526
(2) Meta sues Brazil, China advertisers over celebrity deepfake scams
(Photo Credit: REUTERS/Pierre Albouy)
Meta launched legal actions against multiple entities in Brazil and China for deploying AI-generated deepfakes of celebrities to push scam products on its social platforms.
In Brazil, the company targeted B&B Suplementos e Cosmeticos and Brites Academia de Treinamento, plus two individuals. These groups allegedly created fake videos of a well-known doctor to promote unapproved health supplements. Brites even offered training courses on these deceptive methods.
The impersonated Brazilian oncologist Drauzio Varella criticized the lawsuits as inadequate. He accused Meta’s platforms of enabling widespread fraud through their massive reach and ad revenue. Vitor Lourenco de Souza and Milena Luciani Sanchez faced separate suits for comparable schemes.
Meta also pursued cases in China and Vietnam. Shenzhen Yunzheng Technology ran celebrity-lure ads directing users to fake investment groups aimed at audiences in the US and Japan. Vietnamese firm Ly Van Lam posted bogus promotions for luxury Longchamp bags.
News Source: https://www.thestandard.com.hk/china/article/325451/Meta-sues-Brazil-China-advertisers-over-celebrity-deepfake-scams
(3) Hong Kong vinyl bars spread analogue music culture by offering ‘a glimpse into the past’
(Photo Credit: Coda)
In a world where algorithms decide much of what we listen to online, a quiet movement is growing in Hong Kong, one that celebrates slowing down and reconnecting with music in a more personal way. Vinyl bars are becoming popular across the city, offering spaces where people can enjoy records and good company without screens or digital playlists. These venues attract both young listeners discovering vinyl for the first time and older generations who remember the format fondly.
One of these places is Coda in Sai Ying Pun, a jazz-inspired cafe-bar opened by Andrew Wong and his friends in 2024. Taking cues from Japan’s classic jazz kissa cafés, Coda combines whisky, warm lighting, and a good sound system to create a nostalgic atmosphere. The bar’s collection began with well-known jazz artists like Chet Baker and Bill Evans but has since grown with contributions from customers. Beyond playing records, Coda also hosts live jazz nights and small cultural talks, providing a community setting where people can share music, art, and conversation in real life.
In Hong Kong’s SoHo district, AER (Aesthetic Radio) takes the vinyl theme in a different direction, focusing on electronic and dance music. Its co-founder, Sean O’Connor, wanted to bring back the spirit of old-school club culture, where people truly connected on the dance floor. AER features cocktails inspired by famous record labels and encourages guests to start their night there before heading to nearby clubs. Its emphasis on good sound, physical records, and friendly social energy sets it apart from typical nightlife spots that rely heavily on digital music.
Meanwhile, 8055, located in Lan Kwai Fong, shows how vinyl culture continues to evolve. Originally founded in 2019 and later revived in 2025, the bar offers a more relaxed take on nightlife, one where music and atmosphere matter more than volume. With graffiti-covered walls and a setup inspired by Japanese vinyl bars, 8055 welcomes guests who want to enjoy good music without the chaos of the club scene. Together, these new spaces show that in Hong Kong, many people are looking for simple, meaningful ways to experience music once again, offline, and in person.
(4) Hong Kong group brings ancient Silk Road murals’ musical depictions to life
(Photo Credit: SCMP)
Dunhuang stands as a key Silk Road oasis in northwest China’s Gansu province. The Mogao Caves anchor its fame with 492 chambers of Buddhist art spanning a thousand years. Murals capture over 4,500 instruments and 500 ensembles from ancient rituals.
The Hong Kong Gaudeamus Dunhuang Ensemble revives this lost music since 2018. Founder Leonie Ki, a philanthropist with 22 Dunhuang trips, drives the effort. She aims to deepen local Chinese cultural ties through apolitical performances.
Recent LCSD venue partnership grants Sha Tin Town Hall access. China National Arts Fund backed a Palace Museum dialogue project. Tours span mainland China, Japan, UK, France, and Canada, invited by the embassy to mend ties post-Huawei tensions. Bangkok follows in March.
Young composers Kam Shing-hei and Chu Kai-yeung lead creation. They draw from Tang relics, Library Cave scores, and mural depictions of pipa, sheng, and guzheng. New works blend ancient roots with fresh energy, navigating instrument evolution and scholarly debates. Ki pushes beyond piano-violin norms to spark instrument interest.
(5) Chinese social media bans female Uygur comic over marriage jokes – sparks backlash
(Photo Credit: SCMP)
Chinese authorities suspended Uyghur comedian Xiao Pa’s Weibo account during a New Year online purge. Her joke about illness and family duties allegedly fueled gender tensions and marriage fears. The platform acted under Cyberspace Administration orders to curb negative content.
Xiao Pa quipped about leaning on walls to cook while sick if married with kids. Regulators targeted posts stoking anti-marriage views or fertility anxiety. The month-long campaign also hits AI-generated spam and links to gambling or adult sites. It aims for festive online harmony.
She turned pro in 2020, gaining fame on Rock and Roast via family anecdotes. Jokes roast her serial-marrying father and bleak marriage prospects. Fans defend her as truth-teller, not radical. Many young women echo independence over tradition amid falling marriage rates.
Debate reflects youth pushback on wedlock as duty. Commenters nod to moms cooking through sickness. China grapples with 2025’s record-low 7.92 million births, down 17 per cent. Propaganda pushes modest weddings and family values to reverse demographic slide.
(6) Hong Kong Cinema Shines at Dublin International Film Festival 2026 with Award-Winning Films and Networking Events
(Photo credit: HKSAR Government Press Release)
The Brussels Economic and Trade Office promoted Hong Kong films at the Dublin International Film Festival from late February to early March. Two productions appeared in the lineup. “Four Trails” is an acclaimed documentary by Robin Lee. “The Arch” represents a classic work by director Tang Shu-shuen.
A special reception followed the “Four Trails” screening on February 25. Guests included figures from Ireland’s cultural and business communities. Brussels ETO Deputy Representative Kasper Ng addressed the event. He described Hong Kong as a vibrant East-West fusion hub for arts.
Ng praised the city’s cultural diversity and creativity as fuel for storytelling. He noted government backing via the Film Development Fund to grow the local industry. He invited attendees to explore Hong Kong’s geo-tourism and sports offerings firsthand.
Director Robin Lee joined a Q&A after his film’s showing. He discussed his creative process. The festival ranks among Ireland’s top cinema gatherings. It draws over 22,000 enthusiasts with professional and public programming.
(7) Meet Michelle Mao, who plays ‘evil’ stepsister Rosamund Li in Bridgerton’s season 4
(Photo Credit: @michelleforbreakfast/Instagram)
Netflix’s latest Bridgerton season, launched 29 January, reworks the Cinderella tale around Benedict Bridgerton’s romance with maid Sophie. Sophie was mistreated by stepmother Araminta Gun portrayed by Katie Leung. Michelle Mao steps into the role of Rosamund Li, the haughty elder stepsister to Posy Li played by Hong Kong actress Isabella Wei. The Regency drama draws from Julia Quinn’s novels with familiar family dynamics and high-society intrigue.
Born in Tennessee in 1998, Michelle grew up across Hong Kong and Beijing before finding her passion for theatre at a UK boarding school. She balanced University of California, Berkeley studies with relentless Los Angeles auditions by taking overnight flights to chase opportunities. She also took acting classes at Joshua Lebar in California to sharpen her skills during this grind.
Michelle debuted onscreen in 2017’s short film Irrevocable and now boasts over 40 credits. She appeared in 2025’s A Big Bold Beautiful Journey alongside Margot Robbie, directed by Kogonada. Their second collaboration, 2026’s Zi, premiered at Sundance with Michelle leading as the Hong Kong-set titular character.
(8) Joji has announced a Hong Kong date for his global ‘Solaris’ arena tour
(Photo Credit: Getty Images)
Joji, the Japanese-Australian singer behind popular songs like ‘Glimpse of Us’ and ‘Slow Dancing in the Dark’, has announced a new world tour called ‘Solaris’. Hong Kong fans can catch him live on 27 November for his first-ever performance in the city. The tour will feature a fresh production, updated setlist, and music from his latest album, making it a special event for supporters.
The ‘Solaris’ tour starts on 16 June in Newark, USA, with a long stretch of shows across North America. It will then head to Europe before reaching Asia-Pacific later in the year. Joji’s newest album, Piss in the Wind, a 21-track project released in early February, will be the main focus. Expect a mix of his classic hits and live debuts of songs from the new record.
Fans in Hong Kong may feel extra excited about this date. Joji was set to headline Clockenflap 2023 here but had to cancel due to health issues, leaving many disappointed. This November show offers a second chance to see him perform in person. It’s a great opportunity for local music lovers to finally experience his unique sound and stage presence.
Details like the exact venue, ticket prices, and sales dates for the Hong Kong concert are not out yet. Fans should visit jojimusic.com for updates and to sign up for presale access. Keep checking to stay ahead and grab tickets when they go on sale.
News Source: https://www.scmp.com/business/banking-finance/article/3345047/hsbc-signals-intent-join-hong-kongs-stablecoin-regime-amid-digital-innovation-push?module=perpetual_scroll_0&pgtype=article
(9) SEVENTEEN rocks Kai Tak Stadium with thrilling HK concert, delighting fans with playful stage moments
(Photo Credit: the Standard)
South Korean boy group SEVENTEEN brought their WORLD TOUR［NEW_］IN HONG KONG back to Kai Tak Stadium on Saturday night, following their successful show in the city last September. The nine members ignited the venue with a high-octane opening performance of “HBD,” quickly followed by the powerful “THUNDER,” showcasing tight choreography and strong vocals.
Leader S.Coups praised the electric atmosphere that drew them back to Hong Kong, while several members won over the audience with a few Cantonese phrases. The group expressed gratitude for fans’ unwavering support and for the chance to enjoy local food during their visit.
The encore sustained the excitement. After a swift costume change, SEVENTEEN repeated “HBD” and “THUNDER,” then launched into “Clap,” prompting fans to clap along in unison. The playful segment continued with the subunit track “Fighting” and an upbeat intro to “Very Nice,” lifting the energy further.
The performance reinforced SEVENTEEN’s reputation for dynamic shows and strong fan connection, making the two-day Hong Kong stop a memorable highlight of their world tour.
(10) WestK FunFest returns with giant cat installations, family-friendly shows, and more experiences
(Photo Credit: Courtesy West Kowloon Cultural District)
West Kowloon Cultural District’s WestK FunFest 2026 returns for its third year during Hong Kong’s Art Month, running from 19 March to 12 April. This family-focused event offers a mix of outdoor installations, theatre shows, and live performances designed for all ages. It’s a great chance for kids and adults to enjoy art in a fun, relaxed setting across the district. Tickets are already available at westk.hk.
One major draw is the outdoor installation ‘The Cats that Slept for a Thousand Years’ by UK studio Air Giants. This features a 10-metre-long inflatable cat, plus two larger cats and a kitten, with lights, sounds, and interactive features. The soft purring and glowing effects create a playful atmosphere that kids will love exploring. It’s a perfect photo spot and a highlight for families visiting the Arts Park.
The theatre lineup includes strong international and local acts. Spare Parts Puppet Theatre brings its award-winning ‘Rules of Summer’ to Xiqu Centre, mixing puppetry with modern stage effects. Visitors can also join a hands-on workshop with artistic director Philip Michell to learn puppet-making skills. For younger kids (up to 36 months), ‘Bob Marley for Babies’ offers a sensory musical show with vibrant visuals and familiar tunes, led by Barcelona’s La petita malumaluga.
Local talent shines too, with the Hong Kong Sinfonietta’s family series ‘This is Classical Music?!’ and ALAN’s new production ‘Snowmelt’. The FunFest Market at Arts Park adds free entry to food stalls, crafts, retro photo booths, and pop-up dance performances. Whether you’re bringing little ones or just want a creative day out, WestK FunFest makes art accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
News Source: https://www.timeout.com/hong-kong/news/westk-funfest-returns-with-giant-cat-installations-family-friendly-shows-and-more-experiences-022626
(11) China actress, 75, triggers debate by playing teenage girl in mini-drama, kissing young man
(Photo Credit: Handout)
Liu Xiaoqing, a 75-year-old actress known as China’s “ageless goddess,” portrayed an 18-year-old embroiderer in the February mini-drama Splendid Tranquility. The 80-episode series follows her character’s rise from disgrace to royalty. She shares a rehearsed kiss with 45-year-old co-star Jin Jia after a dramatic rescue scene. Makeup and filters helped create her youthful look, backed by strong acting.
The kiss scene divided online audiences sharply. Some viewers called it unsettling, likening it to a grandmother romancing her grandson. Critics accused Liu of dodging aging and leaning on younger actors for relevance. Others mocked potential future roles like a child character.
Fans rallied in her defense. They hailed her boldness in defying age norms for older actresses. Supporters stressed her legal compliance and top-tier performance amid unfair scrutiny. Behind-the-scenes clips showed Liu and Jin collaborating eagerly on the choreography.
Liu shrugged off backlash by affirming the scene’s scripted role and her creative respect. She revealed a grueling three-hour sleep schedule and long-term fitness commitment. Plans include 10 more short dramas this year. Jin gained fame as “the second Takeshi Kaneshiro,” staying silent on the uproar. Activist Wang Yang spotlighted industry double standards, noting less criticism for older men with young co-stars. Liu’s career boasts over 70 projects and major awards, despite a 2002 tax evasion prison stint.
News Source: https://www.scmp.com/news/people-culture/china-personalities/article/3345418/china-actress-75-triggers-debate-playing-teenage-girl-mini-drama-kissing-young-man?pgtype=live
(12) HK film mogul Charles Heung confirms leaving inheritance to daughter-in-law, sons excluded
(Photo Credit: Sin Chew Daily)
Hong Kong movie mogul Charles Heung and wife Tiffany Chen excluded their sons from inheritance due to doubts about business skills. Heung fears assets like property would vanish through scams. The couple favors a cautious approach to wealth preservation.
They plan a family trust under daughter-in-law Bea Hayden’s oversight. Hayden, wed to eldest son Jacky, shows sharp financial instincts. Heung trusts her prudence with family holdings.
Strict rules bind the setup. Grandchildren face bans on US study or relocation. Chen directs her jewels straight to a granddaughter.
Younger son Jonathan protests the choice as biased. Chen cut WeChat ties with him. Calls route through staff now. Heung holds revision open if sons mature over ten years.
News Source: https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/entertainment/2026/02/27/hk-film-mogul-charles-heung-confirms-leaving-inheritance-to-daughter-in-law-sons-excluded
