Hong Kong – Popular Cantopop boy band MIRROR made a highly anticipated return to Radio Television Hong Kong (RTHK) on Wednesday, marking what local media are calling a “thaw” in a nearly five-year rift between the group and the public broadcaster. Ten of the 12 members visited the station’s Broadcasting Road studios to record interviews for programs “三五成群” and “騷動音樂,” promoting their new single “同往” (Together). The event drew a massive crowd of fans, creating a “fan migration” scene along the busy thoroughfare.
The group’s appearance ended a prolonged absence from RTHK, which began after a 2019 controversy involving political content. Captain Lokman Yeung acknowledged the gap but said he could not recall exactly how long it had been since the band last set foot in the station.
New Music, Summer Plans, and a Star-Studded Film
The band’s new single, “同往,” features a camping-themed music video shot around a campfire, with members stargazing and chatting. AK (Kong Ying-sang) noted the warm, intimate vibe but humorously admitted to hoping their upcoming variety show would be filmed indoors due to Hong Kong’s sweltering summer heat. He also teased potential prize giveaways—including apartments, cars, cash, or travel tickets—as part of the show’s interactive segments.
Looking ahead to their December concert, Lokman revealed a fresh format: the show will focus on group and sub-unit performances, with no solo numbers. “We want to give the audience something new,” he said. Ian Chan, nursing a foot injury, said he is undergoing rehabilitation to ensure he can perform, while Tiger Yau expressed confidence that the 12-member team would deliver strong results.
Meanwhile, Stanley Yau earned a major career milestone. His film “The Last Dance” (co-starring Taiwan’s Shu-yao Sung) was selected for the Special Presentations section of the 51st Toronto International Film Festival. “It’s truly unexpected,” Stanley said. “TIFF is often seen as an Oscar precursor. I’m just thrilled to share this film with more people. I don’t dare dream of the Oscars.” He also plans a Taiwan roadshow for his upcoming movie “Blow the Candle Before Making a Wish.”
Dance Collabs, Inside Jokes, and a Driving License Dilemma
Lokman and Alton Wong recently collaborated with popular Japanese girl group XG for a dance video. Alton said they received the invitation just an hour before filming. Lokman praised XG’s professionalism and energy, admitting, “I used my professional demeanor to hide my shyness.” Fellow member AK joked about lobbying for similar opportunities, noting that several MIRROR members are skilled dancers.
In lighter moments, Keung To—who recently sparked online chatter by gifting a HK$10 red packet to Ian during a concert—defended the gesture as a playful joke. “I knew he’d open it live,” Keung said. Ian added, “I suspect he borrowed that HK$10 from a staff member.” Keung laughed: “Yes, and I haven’t paid it back!” Fellow member Jeremy Lee, set to serve as best man at Stanley’s wedding, joked when asked about a generous monetary gift: “After all my efforts, I need to give more? I’ll think about it.”
Addressing a past legal issue, Keung confirmed that after being convicted of careless driving last year (resulting in a fine and license suspension), he has since reported his lost driver’s license and completed the required affidavit. He gave himself a 60% chance of passing a re-test but said the exam date remains uncertain.
Broader Impact
MIRROR’s return to RTHK signals a potential mending of ties between the entertainment industry and state media, which soured during the 2019 protests. With a new single, an ambitious concert format, and growing international film recognition for its members, the band continues to expand its cultural footprint both locally and abroad. Fans now watch closely for the next steps—on stage, in film, and in the delicate dance of public relationships.
