[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Seoyoung] As the Korean Netflix original series 'Squid Game' gains popularity in Hong Kong, the Hong Kong police have banned the possession of all types of replica guns during Halloween events.
On the 30th, the South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported, "If you want to dress up as a soldier from 'Squid Game' for Halloween, you should only wear the related costume and leave any prop guns at home, the police warned." It added, "The soldier costume from 'Squid Game' is expected to be popular this Halloween," and "carrying prop guns could result in imprisonment for up to two years."
The Hong Kong police stated, "In the past, some people dressed as TV or movie characters during Halloween and carried various types of replica weapons," but "we urge everyone not to carry any replica guns as props." They also explained that around 1,000 personnel will be deployed mainly in the Lan Kwai Fong area, the largest entertainment district, to enforce the ban before and after Halloween.
SCMP quoted a police official saying, "Plainclothes officers will blend into the crowd to identify so-called 'troublemakers,' and those wearing costumes with political slogans will also be targeted." Since June 30 of last year, the Hong Kong National Security Law (Hong Kong Security Law) has been in effect, making the expression of political messages subject to enforcement actions.
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