24th September 2023 – (Hong Kong) In a recent social media frenzy, photos and videos have been circulating of a vandalised MTR train. The incident took place at Platform 2 of Tseung Kwan O Station, heading towards North Point. The footage shows a stationary train with carriages 2 and 3 adorned with various graffiti art, captivating the attention of waiting passengers who observe the colourful designs and even engage in discussions. Law enforcement authorities reported the incident as an act of criminal damage, with the graffiti covering an area of 22 meters by 1.5 meters.
The photos and videos have sparked a heated discussion among netizens. Many have praised the artwork, commenting that the train looks more beautiful. Some netizens even labelled it as an “artistic train” and expressed the opinion that graffiti, to some extent, is not necessarily a bad thing and adds vibrancy to the otherwise monotonous environment. Speculations have also emerged among online users, suggesting that the vandals might have taken advantage of the absence of staff or that the same individuals who vandalised Sai Wan Ho Station a few days ago could be behind this incident.
This is not the first time Hong Kong’s MTR trains have fallen victim to graffiti. In March 2018, a train on the East Rail Line was discovered with graffiti, leading to suspicions that someone had infiltrated the Lo Wu Station and vandalised the parked train. Due to the lack of time for cleaning, the train continued to operate with passengers on board before finally returning to Mong Kok East Station and heading back to the depot. In July 2016, a graffiti-loving foreign couple sneaked into the Kowloon Bay Depot and spray-painted the train carriages. The “newly decorated” train later entered the platform and carried passengers.
