Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee apologized on Thursday for a deadly fire that killed 168 people last November and pledged extensive reforms to the city's building regulations.

Lee spoke at a press conference after the release of a judge-led independent report that held four government departments partially responsible for the tragedy at the Wang Fuk Court residential complex in Tai Po. The blaze, which erupted during renovation work on November 26, 2025, was the deadliest in Hong Kong since 1948.

"As chief executive and head of the government, I am deeply saddened," Lee said. "On behalf of the SAR government, I offer my apologies to the victims and the public at large." He bowed alongside seven other senior officials in a rare public gesture of contrition.

The report detailed governance and supervisory failings, including a failure to address safety complaints raised by residents for more than a year prior to the fire. It identified widespread bid rigging in the renovation process and criticized the lack of effective oversight by multiple agencies.

Lee announced that Housing Secretary Winnie Ho had resigned to take political responsibility. Ho is the first official to step down over the incident. The report assigned primary responsibility to the main contractor and project consultant while noting that government bodies bore part of the blame for the high casualties.

The fire, likely ignited by a glowing source such as a cigarette amid flammable materials and scaffolding, spread rapidly through seven of the eight 31-story towers. Thousands of residents were displaced.

Lee promised swift reforms to the building industry and regulatory system, including new measures to combat bid rigging. The government said it would pursue disciplinary actions against officials and strengthen oversight of renovation projects.

The incident has drawn criticism over perceived delays in accountability, with residents and observers noting the time taken for the inquiry and response.