Former HK actress Margaret Chung, 49, reportedly taken to ICU, thanks fans for concern

Former TVB actress Margaret Chung was reportedly taken to the intensive care unit (ICU) at the Chinese University Hospital, according to reports on Sep. 11.

The 49-year-old later issued a statement on Instagram thanking fans and well-wishers for their concern, without disclosing details of her condition.

Spotted friends of Chung outside ICU of hospital

News broke on Friday that the former actress was rushed to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the Chinese University Hospital due to a sudden medical emergency, which raised questions about her condition, reported Lianhe Zaobao.

Online media outlet Hong Kong 01 received a tip from a reader who claimed to have spotted Toby Leung, Chung Lai-kei's close friend, with several friends outside the intensive care unit of the Chinese University Hospital.

The media then called Chung Lai-kei's mobile phone, which was answered by her husband, Nardone Ruggero, who told reporters that she was "okay".

Asked for space to focus on her health and family

In the statement, Chung expressed gratitude for the "tremendous concern, kindness and well wishes" she had received during what she called "this arduous period" of her life.

She said her focus was currently on her health and spending time with her family, and asked the media and public to respect her and her family's privacy while they navigated the situation together.

"I understand that, as a public figure, there will naturally be interest and concern regarding my condition," she wrote, adding that she was "sincerely grateful" for the concern but asked for space to focus on her health and family for now.

Recent photos of ex-actress drew speculation

Chung's health had earlier drawn online speculation following a birthday gathering for her close friend Janet Chow, where she was pictured with several former TVB co-stars, informally dubbed the "Seven Fairies", including Charmaine Sheh, Mandy Wong, Sherming Yiu, and Annie Man.

Photos from the event showed Chung noticeably thinner than before, wearing a denim jacket and black cap, with a stiffer expression than her usual smile, which drew questions online.

Sheh had previously addressed the speculation, explaining that Chung had been down with a bad flu on the day of the gathering and was feeling unwell and tired, which was why she appeared stiff on camera, and that there was no cause for concern.

Top image via Janet Chow/Instagram, Margaret Chung/Instagram