Lunar New Year Festivities Marred by Public Dining Incidents in Hong Kong
Hong Kong authorities and MTR Corporation officials are addressing a series of incidents involving individuals consuming food in public spaces within the city’s railway network, sparking online debate about public etiquette and adherence to regulations. The incidents, occurring both immediately after the 2026 Lunar New Year fireworks display and in the days following, have drawn criticism from social media users.
On , six people were filmed sitting on the floor of MTR Admiralty Station eating food after attending the Lunar New Year fireworks display, according to reports. The footage quickly circulated online, prompting a wave of commentary regarding appropriate behaviour in public transport hubs. This incident followed a separate case where a group of eight people were observed dining near an escalator at MTR’s Hong Kong Station.
While eating is permitted in areas outside the paid zones of the MTR, regulations strictly prohibit consuming food and drink within the paid areas. Violators face fines of up to HK$2,000. The incident at Hong Kong Station, though occurring in a permitted area, still drew criticism, with some observers questioning the group’s consideration for other passengers.
These incidents are not isolated. A previous case involving a woman eating sushi on an MTR train also generated significant online backlash. The woman was publicly shamed for disregarding the “no eating” rule, with complaints focusing on the resulting odour within the train carriage. This earlier incident highlighted the sensitivity surrounding food consumption on public transport and the expectations of fellow commuters.
The recent events have reignited discussions about maintaining public order and respecting shared spaces. While Hong Kong enjoys a vibrant street food culture and a generally relaxed atmosphere, these incidents underscore the importance of adhering to established rules and demonstrating consideration for others, particularly within the confines of the MTR system.
The MTR Corporation has not yet issued a specific statement addressing the recent incidents at Admiralty and Hong Kong Stations, but routinely reminds passengers of the regulations prohibiting eating and drinking within paid areas. The corporation’s existing policies are intended to maintain cleanliness and ensure a comfortable travel experience for all passengers.
The incidents come amidst a broader context of increased visitor numbers to Hong Kong. Financial Secretary Paul Chan reported that visitor arrivals were up 9.6% in early 2026, with an anticipated 1.43 million mainland Chinese visitors during the Lunar New Year holiday – a 6% increase from the previous year. This influx of tourists may contribute to challenges in maintaining public order and enforcing existing regulations.
Oscar Liu, a senior reporter with the South China Morning Post, has been covering various aspects of Hong Kong’s Lunar New Year celebrations, including the fireworks display and the resulting traffic congestion. His reporting highlights the complex interplay between tradition, tourism, and urban life in the city. Recent reporting by Liu also covered a man found dead in a Taipei hotel and a man who fell to his death while attempting to rescue his cat, demonstrating the range of news events occurring in the region.
The MTR incidents, while seemingly minor, reflect a broader conversation about social norms and expectations in a densely populated urban environment. As Hong Kong continues to welcome visitors and navigate the challenges of a modern metropolis, maintaining a balance between cultural vibrancy and public order remains a key priority.
