While the majority of Hong Kong’s nightlife centres around Central’s LKF and Tsim Sha Tsui’s Knutsford Terrace, there is a relatively underground scene that’s been serving local youths for decades. These nightclubs are popular among Hong Kong’s younger generations for their affordable entertainment and a focus on indie music. Slap is one such staple in Mong Kok’s nightlife scene and a venue attached with fond memories for many local youths.
The owners of Slap announced the club’s closure through a social media post on October 5, citing various reasons for their decision, including poor building maintenance, difficulties with food and drink permits, as well as continued operational issues since the club flooded in August 2025.
The news came as a surprise to dwellers of Hong Kong’s underground scene, and a shock to the growing community that Slap has managed to amass over its eight-month operation. On October 25, Slap will host one final party at its Mong Kok location, with the lineup yet to be announced and tickets on sale now.
Slap’s closure will mark the third underground venue to close in Hong Kong since 2020. This dwindling number could represent a public disinterest in alternative and indie forms of entertainment, but the encouraging crowds that have been drawn to Slap by its closing announcement is hard to ignore. There is a clear demand for underground clubs like Slap in this city, and fans should remain hopeful for new – and perhaps – returning venues in the future. Afterall, Slap’s owners promised this is not the end of the brand, but simply an unavoidable hiatus.
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