The university set a deadline for the pillar to be removed by Wednesday, which has since expired.

Many citizens took photos of the sculpture, while one brought along with him a pencil and a board to sketch it.

Jens Galschiot, the creator of the pillar, said that he planned to transfer the sculpture to Europe or the United States for exhibition. He also said that he has asked HKU for more time as the removal may take several months.

Galschiot stated that while there is accusation that the pillar violates the national security law, he hopes the sculpture can remain in Hong Kong. He called HKU's request to remove the pillar shameful, stating that a university should promote liberty and academic discussions.

In case the pillar is damaged in the future, he hoped members of the public will collect its debris. He also said that he will not give up and may create a new Pillar of Shame using the debris.