Hong Kong Socialite Abby Choi’s Murder Linked to Financial Dispute, Prosecutors Say
Prosecutors claim money disputes led to Hong Kong socialite Abby Choi's murder. Trial begins for ex-husband and in-laws.
POLICY WIRE — Hong Kong, China — Prosecutors have stated that financial disagreements were the central motive behind the 2023 murder of Hong Kong socialite Abby Choi, as the trial of her ex-husband and in-laws commenced this week.
The killing of Choi, a prominent figure in Hong Kong’s fashion and social circles, triggered widespread public attention and global media coverage. Her body was found in parts, fueling intense speculation about the circumstances surrounding her death.
Alex Kwong, his brother Anthony Kwong, and their father Kwong Kau are accused of the crime, and all have pleaded not guilty. During the opening statement, prosecutor Charlotte Draycott emphasized the disparity in wealth between Choi and her in-laws, highlighting how disputes over property and financial support escalated into a tragic outcome.
Choi had separated from Alex Kwong before her death and was in a relationship with someone from an affluent family. However, she continued to financially assist the Kwongs, including providing a HK$60 million apartment under Kwong Kau’s name. This support reportedly led to growing tensions, especially after she attempted to sell the property and relocate her in-laws.
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Tensions worsened in 2022, with Kwong Kau allegedly attempting to assault Choi and disowning her. She described him as ungrateful and a crook, fearing he would turn her children against her. According to prosecutors, this prompted a plot to kill her so that Kwong Kau could reclaim the property.
Choi, who was a mother of four, went missing on February 21, 2023. Three days later, body parts believed to be hers were discovered in the Tai Po district along with tools used in the dismemberment. The Kwongs were arrested shortly after.
The trial is set to continue for at least eight weeks. Choi was born on Hainan Island and moved to Hong Kong at age five, where she met Alex Kwong during her school years. The couple married in 2014, and during their marriage, Alex Kwong did not hold a job, relying on Choi’s family for support.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)
