On Thursday evening, three individuals were arrested for allegedly disrespecting China’s national anthem during a 2026 World Cup Asian qualifier football match in Hong Kong. The trio, who were aged between 18 and 31, turned their backs to the field and failed to stand during the playing of the Chinese national anthem “March of the Volunteers” at the match against Iran, which ended in a 4-2 win.
Plainclothes police officers were reportedly seen filming and observing spectators as the anthem was being played at the stadium. All three individuals were released on bail pending further investigation, but they were required to report back to the police in July.
In June 2020, Hong Kong enacted the National Anthem Ordinance, which criminalizes any insults directed towards the national anthem. The law also stipulates that all individuals and organizations should respect and preserve the dignity of the national anthem by playing it on appropriate occasions. Those found guilty of violating this law are punishable by up to three years of imprisonment and fines of up to HK$50,000 (US$6,400).
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