Lam Wing-kee, the owner of Hong Kong’s Causeway Bay Books, has died in Taipei from lung cancer at the age of 70. According to multiple media reports, he fell into a coma on July 1 after a recurrence and spread of cancer, and passed away on the evening of July 2. Taiwan President Lai Ching-te expressed condolences over his death, describing his experience as deeply regrettable.
In 2015, Lam and several staff members of Causeway Bay Books mysteriously disappeared, later confirmed to have been detained by Chinese authorities in connection with the sale of publications considered “banned books”. He was held in mainland China for over 400 days before returning to Hong Kong in 2016. He later publicly stated that he was held in solitary confinement under prolonged surveillance, and was asked to assist in providing customer information.
In 2019, fearing extradition risks arising from Hong Kong’s proposed amendments to the Fugitive Offenders Ordinance, Lam moved to Taiwan and reopened Causeway Bay Books. He said the reopening symbolised freedom of speech and demonstrated that Taiwan still upheld publishing and reading freedoms. However, the bookstore later faced legal disputes and acts of vandalism, including trademark issues and red paint attacks.
The Causeway Bay Books incident drew international attention and has been regarded as a key case involving cross-border law enforcement and press freedom. It is also closely linked to the 2019 Hong Kong anti-extradition protests and the subsequent implementation of the Hong Kong National Security Law.
After relocating to Taiwan, Lam continued to participate in activities related to Hong Kong’s democracy and freedom of expression, and often attended events commemorating the June 4 Tiananmen Square crackdown. In recent years, he had reduced public appearances due to health issues, and his bookstore had also temporarily suspended operations.
Commentary:
Lam Wing-kee’s life can be seen as a reflection of the shrinking space for press freedom and expression in Hong Kong. From the Causeway Bay Books incident, to his detention and eventual relocation, he consistently refused to be silenced by fear. Through persistence and action, he sought to preserve the basic flow of knowledge and freedom of thought.
Looking back at his passing today, it is not only the farewell to a bookseller, but also a reminder of a broader struggle over publishing freedom. His persistence will remain a symbol urging future generations to value and protect freedom of expression.