Anson Kew Pleads Guilty to Acid Attack on Singaporean Tourist

What changed

Anson Kew, now 19, pleaded guilty on Oct. 15 to throwing corrosive liquid at Singaporean tourist Jiang Wen in Hong Kong’s Wan Chai district on June 9, 2025. The High Court adjourned sentencing to Oct. 29.

Why it matters

The attack left Jiang with chemical burns over 10% of her body, including her face, feet and upper limbs. Her legs suffered second-degree burns. She underwent surgery and multiple skin grafts, spent two months in hospital, then returned to Singapore for further treatment.

The liquid contained at least 90% sulphuric acid, a concentration capable of causing severe burns and permanent eyesight damage. Kew had surveyed the location days before the attack, then fled wearing black clothing and a face mask before surrendering two days later.

The guilty plea settles responsibility, but not the motive or the punishment. The Oct. 29 sentencing hearing will determine the next major step in a case that has already crossed borders through the victim’s recovery.