Diplomatic strains force cancellation of shows by Hong Kong and Japanese artists

Japanese boy band NEXZ is among those that have canceled scheduled events in Macau, with their show originally set for January 16, and all ticket holders receiving automatic refunds.

Organizers cited “unforeseen circumstances” as the reason for the cancellation.

The decision comes amid escalating diplomatic tensions between Beijing and Tokyo, which have disrupted cultural exchanges across the region.

NEXZ, a seven-member group with one South Korean member, had planned this performance as part of their first Asian tour in Macau.

The event was to be held at the Galaxy venue, while other scheduled shows were set for the Venetian Arena.

This cancellation follows a pattern of disruptions in recent months, including Japanese pop star Ayumi Hamasaki, whose Shanghai and Macau shows were abruptly canceled, while anime theme singer Maki Otsuki was forced offstage mid-performance in Shanghai last November.

Meanwhile, Hong Kong Cantopop singer and actor Raymond Lam Fung has also indefinitely postponed two upcoming concerts in Tokyo.

Promoter Promax Inc announced last week that Lam’s “Go With The Flow in Japan” tour, originally scheduled for January 31 and February 1 at the Tokyo Garden Theatre, would not proceed “due to unforeseen circumstances.”

Prior to that, fellow Cantopop singer Ekin Cheng canceled a concert in Tokyo last December, citing “force majeure circumstances.”

The cancellations come after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggested possible military action if Beijing were to move against Taiwan. LV