Book Punch founder and three staff arrested over alleged seditious publications; long queue forms outside store late at night
Last night, Hong Kong's cultural circle was shaken. The story centres on Book Punch, a beloved independent bookstore in Sham Shui Po that's a must-visit for the city's creatives. News broke suddenly in the evening: founder Pang Yat-ming and three staff members had been invited for questioning by the National Security Department—which led to their formal arrest. They face serious charges of allegedly conspiring to print, publish, distribute, display, or reproduce seditious publications.
I've lived in Sham Shui Po for years, and I often wander around Tai Nan Street. Book Punch is more than just a place to buy books. It's a small space, but it's always hosting talks, screenings, and has that famous 'cozy reading nook' that young people love to burrow into while browsing for hidden gems. The vibe there is totally different from a chain bookstore—it has a real neighbourhood feel and a certain... how to put it... that defiant spirit you only find in independent bookshops.
So when I heard the news last night, I knew it was serious. I headed straight down. Sure enough, the shop's roller door was half-down, and dozens of people were already gathered outside. Some were locals, others had made a special trip. Their faces were grim, and they were talking in hushed tones. A few young women were in tears, saying they came almost every week and were afraid they'd never see the Book Punch sign again.
This operation by the police's National Security Department is reportedly targeting certain publications found in the store. It's understood that besides founder Pang Yat-ming, those arrested include the store manager and two other colleagues—four people in total. The news exploded on social media. Many in the cultural and publishing sectors have spoken out, noting the tightening atmosphere and expressing shock that an independent bookstore has become a target. Some worry this might only be the first wave.
We've all become used to bookstores turning into 'tourist spots' in recent years. People often go not to buy books, but to take photos or grab a drink. But Book Punch always felt like it still had its 'core'—it was a place that genuinely had something to say, something to express. Now that 'core' has been taken, the whole street feels heavy.
A friend texted me on WhatsApp, asking what I thought. I said I'm not one for political analysis, but as someone who lives in this neighbourhood, I only know this: Sham Shui Po has many bookstores, but at 11 pm, to see a crowd of people spontaneously standing on the street, waiting for news because of a bookstore—that image itself speaks volumes.
This incident isn't going to blow over quickly. Right now, the most important thing is the situation of the four individuals and what the future holds for the bookstore. For locals like me, there's not much to do but wait. But I'll remember that on Tai Nan Street, there was once a place called Book Punch. It threw a punch with books—one that woke up many people navigating life in the city.
Key Points at a Glance
- Individuals Arrested: Book Punch founder Pang Yat-ming and three staff members
- Alleged Offences: Conspiracy to print, publish, distribute, display, or reproduce seditious publications
- Latest Situation: The four are being detained for investigation; the bookstore is closed, and a crowd of citizens had gathered outside
- Community Reaction: Widespread concern from the cultural sector and book lovers about the future of independent bookstores
As someone who's watched Tai Nan Street transform from a fabric market to a hub for creatives, I can only say that what's happened to Book Punch is a reflection of Hong Kong's broader cultural climate. Will there still be places like this where people can quietly browse books, attend talks, and have a chat? I think that's a question many people are still struggling to find an answer to.