Hong Kong Bookseller Faces Trial for Hosting Spanish Class

A Hong Kong bookstore owner has pleaded not guilty to operating an unregistered school. His trial will proceed after a Spanish lesson was held at his shop. Pong Yat-ming, founder of the Book Punch store, is accused of breaking the Education Ordinance. The charge relates to a single Spanish class held on April 23 last year. The independent bookstore, located in Sham Shui Po, is known for hosting workshops and talks. These events have covered topics like social issues, travel, and mental health. Authorities allege that by hosting the language class, the space was used as an unregistered school. Pong has denied the charge. The case highlights ongoing legal scrutiny over informal educational gatherings in the city.