Hong Kong authorities have arrested two women for hawking unauthorised Blackpink merchandise near a concert venue, amid four complaints over the past few days. The arrests occurred hours before the final night of the Korean girl band's three-concert series on Monday. Food and Environmental Hygiene Department officers acted against vendors causing public obstruction.
Hong Kong's Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) stated on Monday night that it had been closely monitoring and taking enforcement actions against hawkers around Kai Tak Station Square. Since Blackpink's concerts began on Saturday, photos shared on Threads have shown vendors selling the Korean girl band's merchandise near the arena, with some users alleging that certain items were counterfeit.
Hours ahead of the final night of the three-concert series on Monday, a Post reporter spotted about a dozen hawkers near Kai Tak Stadium selling merchandise without official approval. Authorities received four complaints about unauthorised vendors over the past few days.
FEHD officers arrested two women that day for hawking and causing public obstruction, while issuing a fixed penalty notice to a man for the latter offence. Officers also seized four batches of abandoned goods linked to hawking activities.
Blackpink, the popular K-pop group, performed at Kai Tak Sports Park, drawing large crowds. The incident highlights common issues with counterfeit goods and illegal vending during major events, with authorities vowing continued enforcement to maintain public order.
