Five Years Since Apple Daily Ceased Operations: Reflecting on its Impact on Hong Kong and Taiwan Media Landscapes

Five years have passed since the forced closure of Apple Daily in Hong Kong. The newspaper not only chronicled key moments in Hong Kong’s history but also significantly reshaped Taiwan’s media industry. Lai Hsiu-ju, a senior media professional and chair of the Taiwan-Hong Kong Economic and Cultural Co-operation Council, reflects on the impact the newspaper had during its inception and the commitment to democratic ideals shown by its founder, Jimmy Lai.

On June 24, to mark the fifth anniversary of the paper's closure, the organization "Chasing Light," founded by Hong Kong expatriates, held an exhibition in Taipei titled "Backing Up Apple, Recording Hong Kong." Lai visited the exhibition, noting that while the market-driven, sensationalist style of the newspaper initially caused friction within the industry, its influence was undeniable. The paper’s arrival in Taiwan prompted local outlets to prioritize breaking news and exclusive reports.

Lai observed that Taiwan’s strong civil society eventually influenced Apple Daily’s editorial standards, forcing it to adjust its reporting methods, which in turn had a positive feedback loop for its operations in Hong Kong. She highlighted that Jimmy Lai’s decision to remain in Hong Kong, despite the risks, transformed his role from a business owner into a symbol of democratic struggle.

In an era dominated by AI and misinformation, Lai emphasized that holding such exhibitions in Taiwan remains vital. As one of the few bastions of democratic freedom in the Chinese-speaking world, Taiwan’s ability to preserve these historical memories serves as a critical reminder of the importance of journalistic integrity.