HKU Covers Up June 4 Slogan On Campus

The University of Hong Kong on Saturday covered up a slogan commemorating the events of June 4, 1989, on a bridge on its campus, describing the work as part of its regular maintenance schedule.

Workers were seen boarding off a section of the pavement on the Swire Bridge and covering some of the painted words, which have been repainted by students since 1989.

"The University of Hong Kong regularly conducts maintenance works at various locations and facilities, with the above site being one such project," a university spokesperson said.

The move follows the removal last month of a sculpture known as the Pillar of Shame from the campus, with the university's governing council citing external legal advice that the presence of the artwork posed legal risks and safety concerns.

Student leaders used to repaint the slogan and wash the Pillar of Shame sculpture on June 4 each year.