K-pop girl group TWICE will proceed with their two-day “This Is For” concert on Dec. 6 and 7 in Hong Kong, their agency announced on Dec. 4.
“First and foremost, we would like to express our deepest condolences to the victims of the recent incident in Hong Kong, as well as to their families and loved ones. Our thoughts are with everyone affected,” JYP Entertainment said in a notice.
It added, “Regarding the TWICE This Is For Hong Kong concerts scheduled for December 6 and 7, we held many discussions and gave careful consideration to whether it would be appropriate to proceed under such heartbreaking circumstances.”
“Together with our concert promoter, Live Nation, we have been closely monitoring the situation. After thoughtful deliberation, we have decided to proceed with the concerts at Kai Tak Stadium in Hong Kong,” it said.
The agency added, “Given the gravity of the situation, we will approach the performances with sincere respect and remembrance. We truly hope that these concerts can offer, even in a small way, comfort and strength to those finding their way forward after the tragedy. This hope guided our decision to move forward.”
“Once again, we express our deepest sorrow for the victims of this devastating incident and extend our heartfelt sympathies to their families and to all those affected. We sincerely hope for a swift and steady recovery,” it said.
Fire hit the Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po District in Hong Kong on Nov. 26.
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government announced that as of Dec. 3, 159 died in the fire.
“The Police have so far arrested a total of 15 people from various construction companies on suspicion of manslaughter. The arrested persons have been released on bail and are requested to report back to the Police in mid-December. Additionally, the Police arrested six persons in charge and staff members of a registered fire service installation contractor for fraud yesterday. The Police have accorded top priority to the case and are gathering evidence through various channels for a thorough and in-depth investigation. The possibility of further arrests is not ruled out,” the HKSAR stated in a notice.