Hollywood Actress Nicole Kidman Visiting Hong Kong Sparks Controversy Over Quarantine Exemption Privileges

▲Nicole Kidman

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Jae-hee] It has been revealed that the Hong Kong government exempted Hollywood actress Nicole Kidman from quarantine, sparking strong protests from residents.

According to China's state-run Global Times on the 20th, Kidman visited Hong Kong on the 12th to film a new drama.

However, just two days after arriving in Hong Kong, scenes of her filming the drama or shopping were spotted, leading residents to raise suspicions of her violating quarantine rules.

This is because Hong Kong mandates up to 21 days of quarantine for overseas arrivals.

Upon investigation, it was found that the Hong Kong government exempted Kidman and her colleagues from quarantine, citing economic benefits.

The Hong Kong Commerce and Economic Development Bureau stated, "Overseas film personnel engage in coordinated professional activities, so exceptions can be granted," acknowledging the quarantine exemption.

Instead, they explained that she was required to be vaccinated against COVID-19, stay at designated locations, and undergo regular testing.

However, Hong Kong residents strongly opposed the quarantine exemption for Kidman, calling it a special privilege.

According to quarantine rules, Australia, where Kidman stayed before entering Hong Kong, is classified as a 'low-risk country,' requiring a COVID-19 test upon entry and a 7-day quarantine.

Residents mocked the Hong Kong government on Twitter and Weibo (China's version of Twitter), saying things like, "If you start a film company, you can invite friends to Hong Kong without quarantine," or "If I change my name to Nicole Kidman, I could get an exemption too."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.