An Apple Daily feature has revealed that the “square-dancing aunties” in Tuen Mun are paid by local elderly men to perform, with some even engaging in soft prostitution. It is reported that the aunties, mostly recent Chinese immigrants, receive red pockets as payment, amounting to several hundred dollars per day.
Some of these aunties were the subject of violent protests in Mong Kok last month.
At least five unregistered “booths” are often seen in Tuen Mun Park, blaring music into the public space. One park staff member employed by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department testified that each booth has its tacit territory and runs between 2pm and 6pm, each attracting elderly men who pay to hear the performances.
Staff would try to stop the payment – usually HKD50 to HKD100 given inside red pockets – but were not always successful, he said.
“They’ll frown at you if you don’t allow them to pay”, he told Apple Daily. Wow. A frown. That must be tough.
An elderly surnamed Kwok told reporters that he comes every afternoon for the songs, and admitted he has spent thousands on these women.
He said he is a “sugar-daddy” for two aunties in Tuen Mun Park and spends HKD3,000, representing the entirety of his pension and the money his family gives him, on top of thousands from his savings.
“[The aunties] let you kiss them, and you can dance with them, hold their waists…” he said.
He added that he also attends “yumcha” sessions – with dim sum, songs, and dances – that cost HKD400 per sitting, adding that the aunties are “greedy”.
“She told me I paid less last time and will chase me up for it!” he laughed.
