Global music icon Jackson Wang captivated fans in Hong Kong on Thursday during a public appearance, where he offered sincere reflections on his career pressures, offered support to fellow artists, and shared nostalgic memories of the city after a six-year absence. Flanked by staff, the singer greeted the assembled crowd with waves, bows, and “flying kisses,” expressing palpable joy at returning to his home base.
Wang confirmed he traveled to Central for a meal of beef brisket upon arrival and outlined a wish list of local visits, hoping to make time for a noodle spot in the Sha Tin district and a trip to the Hong Kong Sports Institute. He particularly desired a walk through Mong Kok to revisit his high school days, reminiscing about playing arcade games and getting custom suits tailored there. Following his duties, Wang is scheduled to remain in Hong Kong until Tuesday, November 23, celebrating the Winter Solstice with his parents, who accompanied him on the trip.
Offering Support to Peers and Navigating Pressure
The former Got7 member candidly discussed his recent surprise guest appearance at Keung To’s inaugural concert at the AsiaWorld-Expo. Wang revealed it was his first time meeting the popular Mirror member, calling the experience a pleasure. Despite his extensive touring history, Wang admitted to feeling a degree of pressure, stating that performing at Keung To’s debut show was more nerve-wracking than headlining his own concerts. He shared a touching moment backstage: “Keung To patted me on the stage and said, ‘It’s okay,’ which was really heartwarming.” Looking ahead, Wang expressed keen interest in inviting Keung To to be a guest at any future Hong Kong concert, playfully suggesting he would ask him to perform eight songs. He also mentioned a past connection with Anson Lo (another member of Mirror) from his time in South Korea and deferred questions about future collaborations to Lo’s manager, Ada Wong.
Wang used his platform to speak on the difficulties inherent in the entertainment industry. Acknowledging internal turmoil that Keung To has reportedly faced, Wang emphasized the importance of resilience. He revealed sending a private message of encouragement and sharing personal experiences before the concert, operating from a place of solidarity.
“Nobody will care about you, except yourself,” Wang stated in English, underscoring that in the face of career highs and lows, only self-love, fans, family, and loved ones remain constant support pillars. He stressed the universal nature of high-pressure environments, reminding those in the limelight: “We are in the entertainment industry; whether it is praise or criticism, it is letting others vent. That is an artist’s job.”
Career Plans and Personal Goals
Addressing the recent social media news regarding veteran television host Carol Cheng (Do姐), who reportedly unfollowed both Wang and Keung To, Wang maintained a professional distance, calling it a “private matter.” He confirmed that he remains in touch with Cheng.
On the personal front, the 29-year-old singer shared his hope of marrying and having children by age 35, noting that he would leave the number of children up to his future partner. He joked that his parents have not yet pressured him about marriage and affirmed that he has no specific requirements for a partner beyond compatibility, stating any relationship discovery would be made public swiftly.
Professionally, Wang is preparing to launch a highly anticipated Chinese-language album next year, confirming it will include tracks in Cantonese. He expressed interest in collaborating with local Hong Kong musicians, jokingly adding: “I hope for an ethical price, so I don’t go bankrupt.” Fans awaiting a major Asian tour will have to wait longer; Wang announced plans for a significant American tour, estimating his full-scale Asian schedule might not materialize until 2027.