Hong Kong Free Press Wins Three Honorable Mentions at 2026 SOPA Awards
Hong Kong Free Press (HKFP) secured three honorable mentions at the 2026 Society of Publishers in Asia (SOPA) Awards, marking a new record for the outlet, according to a press release from the organization. The awards, presented on June 18, 2026, recognized excellence in journalism across 700 entries from English, Chinese, and Bahasa Indonesia media outlets.
Photography and Investigative Reporting Highlighted
HKFP’s photography team was acknowledged for its coverage of the Tai Po fire tragedy, with photojournalist Kyle Lam’s five images earning recognition in the Excellence in Photography category. The photos captured the aftermath of the November 2025 blaze, which killed multiple residents.
In the Carlos Tejada Award for Excellence in Investigative Reporting, HKFP’s examination of local bookstores facing simultaneous tax audits was honored. The outlet’s reporting on residents of Wang Fuk Court, a site of the fire, also received an honorable mention in the Excellence in Feature Writing category, as reported by the SOPA press release.
SOPA Awards Celebrate Regional Journalism Excellence
The 2026 ceremony, held at the JW Marriott Hotel, featured remarks from Karen Hao, author of *Empire of AI*. A full list of winners was published on the SOPA website. The awards, established in 1999, aim to spotlight editorial excellence in Asia-Pacific journalism, with this year’s entries reflecting “the strength and diversity of our industry,” according to the press release.
Context of the Tai Po Fire and Its Impact
The November 2025 fire at Wang Fuk Court, which left dozens dead, remains a pivotal event in Hong Kong’s recent history. HKFP’s coverage included on-the-ground reporting and photographic documentation, such as images of firefighters burying victims at Gallant Garden in December 2025. The outlet’s work on the fire’s aftermath has drawn attention for its depth and sensitivity.
Significance of the Awards for HKFP
This recognition underscores HKFP’s role in advocating for press freedom and quality journalism. The outlet, known for its bilingual coverage of U.S. elections and Latin American politics, has consistently emphasized investigative and human-centric storytelling. The SOPA Awards highlight its contributions to regional media, with judges praising its “innovative storytelling formats” and “deeply reported investigations.”
What’s Next for HKFP?
While the awards celebrate past achievements, HKFP’s ongoing coverage of social and political issues in Hong Kong and beyond will likely remain a focal point. The outlet’s ability to balance rigorous reporting with community engagement has positioned it as a key voice in Asia-Pacific journalism.
Learn more about the SOPA Awards.