https://www.scmp.com/rss/325285/feed How the South China Morning Post covered occasions, news, happenings and events big and small since its founding in 1903 en https://assets.i-scmp.com/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www.scmp.com SCMP SCMP Sir Mark Young returns This article was first published on May 1, 1946 Sir Mark Young, Governor of Hongkong, returned to the Colony yesterday (April 30, 1946). Sir Mark was Governor when the Japanese attacked on December 8, 1941 and was a prisoner of war until the capitulation. An official welcome took place when Sir Mark stepped ashore from Queen’s Pier. Broadcasting from Government House in the evening, Sir Mark paid a tribute to the memory of those who fell in the defence of the Colony and... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/3352042/1946-hong-kongs-governor-sir-mark-young-returns-after-wwii-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/3352042/1946-hong-kongs-governor-sir-mark-young-returns-after-wwii-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 30 Apr 2026 10:45:07 +0000 SCMP SCMP When the Duchess of York gave birth to a baby girl exactly 100 years ago, nobody expected that the young princess would one day sit on the throne. Queen Elizabeth II would eventually become Britain’s longest serving monarch, reigning for over 70 years. A hundred years on, the South China Morning Post looks back at how it covered the queen during her life, beginning with the announcement of her birth in the newspaper on April 22, 1926. Training the heiress to Britain’s throne This article,... https://www.scmp.com/news/world/article/3350825/look-back-queen-elizabeth-iis-life-100-years-her-birth-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/world/article/3350825/look-back-queen-elizabeth-iis-life-100-years-her-birth-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 21 Apr 2026 07:31:07 +0000 Alexander Mak Alexander Mak Nestled against the green slopes of Pok Fu Lam and overlooking the Lamma Channel, the Wah Fu Estate opened in 1968 as a landmark in Hong Kong’s public housing programme. Designed by architect Donald Liao Poon-huai, the estate was groundbreaking, featuring private balconies and a layout that maximised natural light and sea breezes for every unit. Its location earned it the nickname “the luxury residence for the masses”. Wah Fu pioneered the “city within a city” model, with schools, markets and... https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3350782/pictures-hong-kongs-groundbreaking-wah-fu-public-housing-estate?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3350782/pictures-hong-kongs-groundbreaking-wah-fu-public-housing-estate?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 21 Apr 2026 00:00:19 +0000 Alexander Mak Alexander Mak From the 1960s to the 90s, Hong Kong’s watch industry thrived on the skill and hard work of watchmakers, factory workers and traders. Using imported movements and efficient assembly lines, the city’s watch exports increased eightfold during the 70s. By the early 90s, Hong Kong was the world’s leading exporter by quantity, the city having pivoted quickly to producing inexpensive quartz movements and supplying nearly 70 per cent of the world’s watches. As production migrated to mainland China due... https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3349668/pictures-hong-kongs-watchmaking-industry-through-decades?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3349668/pictures-hong-kongs-watchmaking-industry-through-decades?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 13 Apr 2026 00:00:10 +0000 Alexander Mak Alexander Mak Since the whistle was first blown on March 28, 1976, the Hong Kong Rugby Sevens tournament has grown from a regional invitational into a global spectacle, expanding from 12 teams in its inaugural edition to 30, competing in three distinct competitions, in 2026. In those 50 years – from the early days at the Hong Kong Football Club, in Happy Valley, through the Hong Kong Stadium era to games at its current home, the Kai Tak Sports Park – the contest has transformed dramatically, a pair of... https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3349385/pictures-50-years-mud-sweat-and-beers-hong-kong-rugby-sevens?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3349385/pictures-50-years-mud-sweat-and-beers-hong-kong-rugby-sevens?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 11 Apr 2026 00:00:10 +0000 SCMP SCMP This article was first published on April 8, 1986. Billion dollar brilliance by Staff Reporters The new $5.2 billion headquarters of the Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corpn was formally opened last night (April 7, 1986) when the Governor, Sir Edward Youde, snipped a simple ribbon. The building, every light ablaze, was a symbol of the bank’s faith in the future of Hongkong, said the bank’s chairman, Mr Michael Sandberg. Many also saw it as a vindication of Mr Sandberg’s own commitment in his... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/3349377/hsbcs-hk5-billion-headquarters-opens-hong-kong-1986-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/3349377/hsbcs-hk5-billion-headquarters-opens-hong-kong-1986-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 08 Apr 2026 09:30:16 +0000 SCMP SCMP These articles were first published on April 8, 1966. Quiet day explodes into violence by SCMP reporter After a quiet but tense day, Kowloon and New Kowloon last night were again in the grip of riotous mobs, who roamed the streets of Mong Kok and Yau Ma Tei uncontrolled, stoning buses and cars, setting fires to vehicles and buildings and challenging police and troops. For seven hours, they ran wild until two hours after the reimposition of the curfew when an uneasy quiet again returned. The... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3349129/riots-over-star-ferry-fare-increase-kill-1-1800-arrested-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3349129/riots-over-star-ferry-fare-increase-kill-1-1800-arrested-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 07 Apr 2026 01:00:26 +0000 SCMP SCMP This article was first published on April 3, 1986. By Jerry Norton Debut-day is full of contradictions Considering the historic nature of yesterday’s share market trading, a strong rally might have seemed appropriate. Instead, the first session in the new unified stock exchange saw prices finish sharply down from Thursday’s close. But most brokers still described themselves as well satisfied with the performance, despite the Hang Seng index closing the morning-only trading session 22.67 points... https://www.scmp.com/business/article/3348608/hong-kongs-unified-stock-exchange-opens-trading-1986-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/article/3348608/hong-kongs-unified-stock-exchange-opens-trading-1986-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 02 Apr 2026 03:30:09 +0000 SCMP SCMP This article was first published on April 2, 2016. by Eddie Lee Staff, fans bid farewell to broadcaster It was finally curtains for Asia Television last night (April 1, 2016) after a couple of near-shutdowns last month and one dramatic twist after another to the embattled station’s chequered final episode. Just before the stroke of midnight, the cash-strapped broadcaster pulled the plug after airing a re-run of one of its trademark Miss Asia beauty pageants. The only fresh programmes on air... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3348605/worlds-first-chinese-language-tv-station-goes-air-2016-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3348605/worlds-first-chinese-language-tv-station-goes-air-2016-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 01 Apr 2026 04:30:08 +0000 SCMP SCMP This article was first published on March 29, 1976. By Jack Beattie World ‘sevens’ for HK? A seven-a-side rugby union world cup competition – and possibly staged in Hongkong! That’s the exciting prospect that emerged after yesterday’s first International “Sevens” Championships held at the Hongkong Football Club. Last night Rothmans and Cathay Pacific, the joint-sponsors of this unique event, which had 12 countries competing, were playing it a bit coy – but both agreed that a similar promotion... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3348128/first-hong-kong-sevens-rugby-tourney-held-1976-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3348128/first-hong-kong-sevens-rugby-tourney-held-1976-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 28 Mar 2026 02:30:07 +0000 Alexander Mak Alexander Mak Hong Kong’s public art scene took off in the 1970s, with large installations on display that reflected the city’s changing culture. Works such as Henry Moore’s Double Oval (1977), André Heller’s The Bamboo Man (1992) and Cao Chong-en’s Bruce Lee Statue (2005) highlight Hong Kong’s unique blend of East and West, tradition and modernity. These works made art more accessible to everyone, allowing people to engage with and experience art in their everyday surroundings. Some of these artworks are... https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3347146/pictures-hong-kongs-public-art-sculptures-1970s-today?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3347146/pictures-hong-kongs-public-art-sculptures-1970s-today?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 23 Mar 2026 07:00:09 +0000 SCMP SCMP This article was first published on March 18, 2006 by Benjamin Wong and Clifford Lo Officers shot with stolen police gun An off-duty police­man shot two uni­formed con­stables, killing one of them, with a gun stolen from and used to kill an officer five years ago, police sources said yes­ter­day (March 17, 2006). The off-duty con­stable, Tsui Po-ko, 35, was also killed in the shootout in Tsim Sha Tsui in the early hours of yes­ter­day. Police sources said evid­ence at the scene sug­ges­ted that... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/3346815/hong-kong-subway-shootout-2006-leaves-2-policemen-dead-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/3346815/hong-kong-subway-shootout-2006-leaves-2-policemen-dead-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 17 Mar 2026 02:45:08 +0000 SCMP SCMP This article was first published on March 11, 2011. By Greg Torode, Martin Wong and Agencies A farm building engulfed in flames as it disintegrated in giant waves; a minibus tumbling end over end, pushed ahead of a 10-metre wall of water - the tsunami triggered yesterday afternoon by the largest earthquake in Japanese history produced scenes of horror along the country’s northeast coast. At least 1,000 people were killed as the wall of water swept away everything in its path. The death toll is... https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/east-asia/article/3346041/japan-hit-worst-earthquake-and-tsunami-its-history-2011-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/east-asia/article/3346041/japan-hit-worst-earthquake-and-tsunami-its-history-2011-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 11 Mar 2026 02:30:08 +0000 Alexander Mak Alexander Mak Horse riding in Hong Kong has long been the preserve of the upper crust, with the high cost of keeping a horse limiting it primarily to the wealthy in this densely populated, space-starved city. In the 1970s, the Hong Kong Jockey Club took a pioneering step to democratise the sport, establishing public riding schools, including the Pok Fu Lam Riding School (established in 1978) and later, the Tuen Mun Riding School (opened in 1994). These schools were designed to provide access to horse riding... https://www.scmp.com/postmag/passions/article/3345658/pictures-horse-play-hong-kong-1970s-2000s?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/postmag/passions/article/3345658/pictures-horse-play-hong-kong-1970s-2000s?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 09 Mar 2026 03:00:09 +0000 SCMP SCMP This article was first published on March 7, 2006. By Vivienne Chow Oscars win for dir­ector Ang Lee is bit­tersweet A mourn­ful story of cow­boys in love finally clinched Ang Lee the Oscar he missed out on six years ago, but the award left him dis­ap­poin­ted and “a bit sur­prised” at not win­ning the best pic­ture award. “It was a loss and a gain,” Lee said after being named best dir­ector for Broke­back Moun­tain. “I was happy about win­ning but not being able to win the best pic­ture award... https://www.scmp.com/culture/article/3345347/ang-lee-becomes-first-chinese-person-win-best-director-oscar-2006-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/culture/article/3345347/ang-lee-becomes-first-chinese-person-win-best-director-oscar-2006-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 05 Mar 2026 01:45:08 +0000 Alexander Mak Alexander Mak Lunar New Year begins with an almost instinctive search for auspicious signs. Here is a look back at traditional festive customs meant to secure a lucky start for the year ahead – many of which continue to shape the city’s celebrations. Temple visits Worshippers head to Wong Tai Sin Temple in Kowloon, Che Kung Temple in Sha Tin and other temples to seek guidance, protection and prosperity for the year ahead. Wish-making at Lam Tsuen At Lam Tsuen in Tai Po, wishes are written on paper... https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3343674/pictures-hong-kongs-chinese-new-year-obsession-good-fortune?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3343674/pictures-hong-kongs-chinese-new-year-obsession-good-fortune?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 17 Feb 2026 03:00:10 +0000 SCMP SCMP This article was first published on February 13, 2006. By Andy Cheng and Alvin Sallay Pollution takes its toll on marathon Twenty-two people were sent to hospital yesterday, two remaining in critical condition last night (February 12, 2006), after taking part in Hong Kong’s biggest marathon amid the worst air pollution since September. Many of the record 40,000 runners complained the “choking air affected their performance in the 10th annual Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon, half-marathon... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3343159/1-runner-resuscitated-more-hospitalised-during-2006-marathon-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3343159/1-runner-resuscitated-more-hospitalised-during-2006-marathon-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 12 Feb 2026 02:00:12 +0000 Alexander Mak Alexander Mak Visiting the flower markets This is a long-standing Lunar New Year custom in Hong Kong, with the largest crowds gathering at Victoria Park. Flowers carry symbolic meaning – orchids for abundance, oranges for wealth and luck – and each year, residents shop with hopes of an auspicious start. Shopping for the Lunar New Year Before the Lunar New Year, shoppers flock to department stores and grocers to stock up on gifts and festive foods for friends and family. Not everything would fly off the... https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3342595/pictures-hong-kong-readies-lunar-new-year?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3342595/pictures-hong-kong-readies-lunar-new-year?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 09 Feb 2026 04:00:11 +0000 Alexander Mak Alexander Mak Freezing temperatures are rare in Hong Kong, and frost is rarer still. But in decades past, a handful of particularly cold days transformed Tai Mo Shan into an ice-crusted winterscape. Here’s a look back at how South China Morning Post photographers captured Hong Kong’s frostiest moments from the 1970s to the 2010s. https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3340631/pictures-hong-kongs-coldest-days-1970s-2010s?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3340631/pictures-hong-kongs-coldest-days-1970s-2010s?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 21 Jan 2026 07:15:07 +0000 SCMP SCMP This article was first published on December 15, 1969 Drama in HK’s first international marathon by Neil Perera Unheralded Kim Cha Hwan of South Korea yesterday (December 14, 1969) pulverised an international field of long distance runners to win the first Tin Tin international marathon in the New Territories. Kim, a 21-year-old electrician, overcame a determined challenge from Australia’s John Farrington to cover the gruelling 26 miles course in two hours 20 minutes 39 seconds. He immediately... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3339688/drama-hong-kongs-first-international-marathon-1969-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3339688/drama-hong-kongs-first-international-marathon-1969-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 17 Jan 2026 07:30:08 +0000 Miguel Enriquez Miguel Enriquez The Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon attracts tens of thousands of people from all over the world every year but the sporting event had humble beginnings in the city. When Hong Kong held its first international marathon in 1969, there were only 28 participants. In this collection of pictures, we look at how the annual running event has grown throughout the years. https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3339990/hong-kong-marathons-throughout-years-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3339990/hong-kong-marathons-throughout-years-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 16 Jan 2026 07:30:05 +0000 Alexander Mak Alexander Mak From the 1970s to the 2010s, Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbour saw its fair share of sailing ships arriving from across the globe. Here’s how South China Morning Post photographers captured the arrival of these classic vessels. https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3339322/pictures-majestic-sailing-ships-made-hong-kong-port-call?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3339322/pictures-majestic-sailing-ships-made-hong-kong-port-call?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 12 Jan 2026 04:00:15 +0000 SCMP SCMP This article was first published on January 8, 2016 By Nikki Sun and Ben Westcott Netflix enters HK pay TV market with bargain offers Internet streaming pioneer Netflix has rolled out its over-the-top (OTT) service in Hong Kong for as low as HK$63 a month hoping to making inroads into the city’s pay TV market. Hong Kong is among 130 new markets – which exclude the mainland - in which the company rolled out the service yesterday (January 7, 2016), taking the total to 190 countries. OTT... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3338981/netflix-launches-hong-kong-2016-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3338981/netflix-launches-hong-kong-2016-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 08 Jan 2026 01:27:01 +0000 SCMP SCMP This article was first published on January 6, 2006 By Ng Kang-chung South Pole in the bag ... next stop Greenland Fresh from a history-making expedition to the South Pole, Hong Kong adventurer Chung Kin-man is already planning his next great challenge. Chung, 52, who with 54-year-old Shenzhen entrepreneur Wang Shi became the first Chinese to climb the highest peaks on seven continents and visit both poles, returned to Hong Kong yesterday (January 5, 2006). He is already preparing for a mission... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/3338712/first-hongkonger-reach-north-south-poles-returns-home-2006-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/3338712/first-hongkonger-reach-north-south-poles-returns-home-2006-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 05 Jan 2026 05:00:14 +0000 Alexander Mak Alexander Mak For nearly 50 years, the New Year Winter Swimming Lifesaving Championships have represented a tradition of courage in Hong Kong, challenging participants with a 600-metre course from Middle Bay Beach to Repulse Bay Jetty. The fastest swimmers are crowned champions in various age groups and categories, including student and open divisions. Join us as we delve into the South China Morning Post’s picture archives, featuring generations of brave swimmers plunging into icy waters on the first day of... https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3338235/pictures-hong-kong-swimmers-braving-cold-new-years-day-1970s-2000s?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3338235/pictures-hong-kong-swimmers-braving-cold-new-years-day-1970s-2000s?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 31 Dec 2025 22:00:10 +0000 Alexander Mak Alexander Mak Hong Kong has long since embraced the joy of Christmas and New Year’s Eve, with festive gatherings being at the heart of the season, with holiday food, drinks and dancing aplenty. Through the lens of South China Morning Post photographers, we look back at these celebrations from the 1970s to the 90s – from lively corporate parties to charity events that brought smiles to the disadvantaged. These moments show how Hong Kong people came together, year after year, to share laughter and the simple... https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3337446/pictures-christmas-and-new-years-eve-parties-hong-kong-1970s-90s?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3337446/pictures-christmas-and-new-years-eve-parties-hong-kong-1970s-90s?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 26 Dec 2025 08:00:09 +0000 Alexander Mak Alexander Mak The 1970s, 80s and 90s were decades in which December grew into a lively festival season in Hong Kong – one that blended Western traditions with the city’s unique charms. Here’s how South China Morning Post photographers captured some of that Christmas magic. Christmas shopping Sending Christmas cards Enjoying the Christmas lights Feasting for Christmas https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3336997/pictures-how-hong-kong-celebrated-christmas-1970s-90s?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3336997/pictures-how-hong-kong-celebrated-christmas-1970s-90s?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 21 Dec 2025 07:15:08 +0000 SCMP SCMP This article was originally published on December 2, 2000 By Felix Chan Warning for MPF-dodging bosses Employers were warned on Friday (December 1, 2000), the day the Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) was launched, that they could not escape paying their fair share. Only about 135,000 employers, 54 per cent of those required to do so, had signed up by the deadline. About 1.44 million employees and 124,000 self-employed had joined, representing 71 per cent and 44 per cent, respectively, of those... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3334711/hong-kongs-mandatory-provident-fund-launches-2000-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3334711/hong-kongs-mandatory-provident-fund-launches-2000-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 01 Dec 2025 06:15:08 +0000 SCMP SCMP This article was first published on November 22, 1995 By David Wallen and other agencies New blow to monarchy as Diana admits adultery Princess Diana’s frank admission of adultery, her graphic description of a three-year battle with bulimia, and her certainty she will never be queen left Britons reeling and dealt a new blow to the monarchy. In an unprecedented hour-long interview watched by 20 million people, including Hong Kong subscribers to Cable TV, Diana spoke candidly about her failed... https://www.scmp.com/news/world/europe/article/3333035/princess-diana-admits-adultery-blow-monarchy-1995-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/world/europe/article/3333035/princess-diana-admits-adultery-blow-monarchy-1995-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 22 Nov 2025 02:30:10 +0000 Alexander Mak Alexander Mak From the 1960s to the 80s, Hong Kong’s textile and garment industry was the engine driving the city’s remarkable economic boom. Fuelled by an influx of capital, technology and skilled labour, local factories flourished, transforming the city into one of the world’s leading garment exporters. In those busy workshops, the sound of sewing machines never stopped. Workers stitched fabric into clothes that ended up in shops from London to New York and beyond. But by the 1990s, many factories had moved... https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3332804/pictures-when-textiles-drove-golden-age-made-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3332804/pictures-when-textiles-drove-golden-age-made-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 17 Nov 2025 03:00:09 +0000 SCMP SCMP This article was first published on November 10, 1990 By Jeremy Lau All-night tram trial stopped Hong Kong Tramways will discontinue its trial all-night service after tonight, a director of Wharf (Holdings) Limited, which owns the company, said on Friday (November 9, 1990). Mr lan Hamilton said the trials had been criticised by members of the Eastern and Wan Chai district boards as being too noisy ever since the scheme was introduced in August. The tram company had decided to abide by their... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3331896/hong-kong-discontinues-trial-all-night-tram-service-1990-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3331896/hong-kong-discontinues-trial-all-night-tram-service-1990-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 10 Nov 2025 03:15:08 +0000 SCMP Reporter SCMP Reporter Hong Kong has played host to some of the world’s biggest names in sport, including football greats Pelé and Diego Maradona, boxing legend Muhammad Ali, tennis stars Steffi Graf and Serena Williams, and many more. Here, we delve into the South China Morning Post’s photographic archives to revisit the times when these superstars graced the city’s sporting venues and impressed local fans. https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3331780/pictures-sports-icons-hong-kong-pele-serena-williams?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3331780/pictures-sports-icons-hong-kong-pele-serena-williams?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 10 Nov 2025 02:00:08 +0000 Alexander Mak Alexander Mak Halloween, much like China’s Hungry Ghost Festival, has its roots in tales of spirits and the supernatural. But unlike the more solemn tone of the Hungry Ghost Festival, Halloween in Hong Kong has evolved into a lively, playful celebration, fuelled by the city’s creativity and curiosity, and inspired by both Western and local traditions. Although there’s no clear record of when the city began embracing Halloween, photographs from the 1980s show small-scale school parties with children dressing... https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3330900/pictures-how-hong-kong-made-halloween-its-own?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3330900/pictures-how-hong-kong-made-halloween-its-own?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 31 Oct 2025 08:00:26 +0000 SCMP SCMP This article was first published on October 29, 2015 by Cary Huang China puts an end to its one-child policy The main­land will abol­ish its dec­ades-old, con­tro­ver­sial one-child policy and allow all couples to have two chil­dren, Com­mun­ist Party lead­ers said on October 29, 2015 after they wrapped up a four-day annual poli­cy­mak­ing meeting. The fifth plenum of the party’s 18th Cent­ral Com­mit­tee also endorsed a new five-year eco­nomic plan, accord­ing to a communique released by... https://www.scmp.com/news/china/article/3330863/2015-china-announces-end-one-child-policy-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/china/article/3330863/2015-china-announces-end-one-child-policy-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 30 Oct 2025 09:36:43 +0000 Alexander Mak Alexander Mak Back in the 1980s and 90s, stamp collecting was a popular pastime in Hong Kong. From Queen Elizabeth’s 60th birthday in 1986 to special issues for the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games, limited-edition stamps celebrated important moments and were highly sought after. Long queues often formed outside post offices on issue days as collectors eagerly awaited new designs that captured the city’s milestones. These stamps also came with what were known as “first-day covers”, which bore the official date of... https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3329761/pictures-hong-kongs-most-enthusiastic-stamp-collectors?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3329761/pictures-hong-kongs-most-enthusiastic-stamp-collectors?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 21 Oct 2025 08:30:20 +0000 Alexander Mak Alexander Mak Before 1992, Sheung Wan’s Tai Tat Tei or “Poor Man’s Nightclub” was a vibrant open space where market stalls, dai pai dong, Chinese opera, fortune-telling and all manner of entertainment came together, forming a hub for workaday shoppers and pleasure seekers while providing a means of livelihood for hawkers and street performers. Throughout the 1980s, it offered tourists a glimpse into the city’s everyday rhythm and character. August 2, 1992, was the last day of operations, as the site across... https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3328778/pictures-hong-kongs-poor-mans-nightclub-popular-outdoor-bazaar-1980s?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3328778/pictures-hong-kongs-poor-mans-nightclub-popular-outdoor-bazaar-1980s?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 13 Oct 2025 07:15:07 +0000 SCMP SCMP This article was first published on October 8, 1980 By Staff Reporter Space Museum bowls Sir Jack The chief secretary, Sir Jack Cater, was not only “fascinated” by the Hong Kong Space Museum, which he declared open on Tuesday (October 7, 1980) – he was “rather awed”. He jokingly said that when he first saw the dome-shaped landmark on the waterfront, he thought it was “the chairman’s (Urban Council’s chairman, Mr A de O Sales) new fish bowl”. “It is of course yet another ‘first’ of Hong Kong,”... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3328131/awe-and-wonder-hong-kong-space-museum-opens-1980-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3328131/awe-and-wonder-hong-kong-space-museum-opens-1980-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 07 Oct 2025 11:40:07 +0000 Alexander Mak Alexander Mak Mid-Autumn Festival is one of the most important traditional Chinese celebrations in Hong Kong. Every year, families gather under the light of the full moon while children enjoy the lanterns that set public parks aglow. For those seeking livelier celebrations, fire dragon dances add excitement to the festivities. Tai Hang and Pok Fu Lam are wreathed in smoke as the fiery dragons wind their way through the streets, accompanied by rhythmic drumming, burning incense and a strong sense of community... https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3327963/pictures-how-mid-autumn-festival-was-celebrated-hong-kong-1970s-90s?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3327963/pictures-how-mid-autumn-festival-was-celebrated-hong-kong-1970s-90s?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 06 Oct 2025 08:15:11 +0000 Alexander Mak Alexander Mak When Ocean Terminal opened in March 1966, it was the world’s first marine pier integrated with a shopping centre and Asia’s first American-style shopping mall. Beyond being Hong Kong’s first cruise terminal, it quickly became a beloved gathering place, where families strolled the decks and crowds came to watch New Year fireworks and admire the skyline. Through the years, Ocean Terminal and Harbour City have been interchangeable. The sprawling complex has grown into a maze of malls and arcades –... https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3327241/pictures-hong-kongs-ocean-terminal-opened-1966-marrying-marine-pier-mall?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3327241/pictures-hong-kongs-ocean-terminal-opened-1966-marrying-marine-pier-mall?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 29 Sep 2025 11:15:11 +0000 SCMP SCMP This article was first published on September 29, 2000 By Fionnuala Halligan In the mood for nostalgia With his latest movie In the Mood for Love, Shanghai-born Wong Kar-wai takes a trip back to his own childhood – and a Hong Kong which, he believes, has long vanished. He moved here with his parents when he was five and his recollections of the two-faced nature of adults – their ability to deceive each other and keep up pretences – inspired his latest film. “I would always see my uncle and aunts... https://www.scmp.com/culture/film-tv/article/3326955/wong-kar-wais-mood-love-opens-hong-kong-2000-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/culture/film-tv/article/3326955/wong-kar-wais-mood-love-opens-hong-kong-2000-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 29 Sep 2025 05:15:07 +0000 Dave Besseling Dave Besseling “When the world-renowned London Philharmonic Orchestra leaves London on September 11 to commence a 25,000-mile Far East tour, it will be receiving financial support from Investors Overseas Services and the OIS Foundation,” reported the South China Morning Post on August 30, 1969. “This was confirmed by Mr Malcolm Fox, IOS Regional Vice-President Far East, in a joint statement with the Hongkong impresario, Mr Harry Odell.” “The tour, which takes the Orchestra first to Singapore and on to... https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3326629/when-london-philharmonic-orchestra-toured-hong-kong-and-asia-1969?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3326629/when-london-philharmonic-orchestra-toured-hong-kong-and-asia-1969?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 24 Sep 2025 22:15:07 +0000 SCMP SCMP As Hong Hong deals with the aftermath of Super Typhoon Ragasa, we take a look at SCMP’s coverage of some of the worst storms the city has experienced. Click here to read more. Hong Kong’s day of terror This article was first published on September 2, 1962 Typhoon Wanda, with winds of up to 162 miles an hour, smashed its way through Hong Kong yesterday and in eight hours of terror, killed or injured hundreds, rendered nearly 20,000 homeless, and left behind it a trial of destruction such as the... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3326601/when-typhoon-wanda-wreaked-havoc-hong-kong-1962-and-killed-130-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3326601/when-typhoon-wanda-wreaked-havoc-hong-kong-1962-and-killed-130-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 24 Sep 2025 09:15:10 +0000 SCMP SCMP As Super Typhoon Ragasa moves away from the city, we take a look at SCMP’s coverage of some of the worst storms the city has experienced. Click here to read more. Typhoon causes collapse in new housing estate By Staff Reporter This article was first published on August 17, 1971 The most powerful typhoon to strike for three years swirled through Hong Kong this morning, plunging Kowloon into blackness for more than two hours, causing houses to collapse and threatening extensive flooding in... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3326654/when-typhoon-rose-caused-hong-kong-housing-estate-collapse-1971-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3326654/when-typhoon-rose-caused-hong-kong-housing-estate-collapse-1971-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 24 Sep 2025 07:30:10 +0000 SCMP SCMP As Super Typhoon Ragasa approaches Hong Kong, we take a look at SCMP’s coverage of some of the worst storms the city has experienced. Click here to read more. Great mop-up is under way by Staff Reporters This article was first published on August 3, 1979 Threats of widespread landslides and flooding hang over Hong Kong today as it licks its wounds from Typhoon Hope. Weathermen have forecast heavy rains – totalling about 100 mm – in the wake of the strongest typhoon in eight years. Mopping-up... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3326473/when-typhoon-hope-battered-hong-kong-1979-killing-12-and-injuring-260-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3326473/when-typhoon-hope-battered-hong-kong-1979-killing-12-and-injuring-260-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 23 Sep 2025 03:50:21 +0000 Alexander Mak Alexander Mak Before the iPhones, Androids and other smartphones we have today, back in the 1980s most Hongkongers depended on landlines at home or in the office. Without a portable phone, stepping out meant losing connection with your colleagues or loved ones. The first generation of mobile phones in Hong Kong were bulky, heavy and very expensive, earning them the nickname “Big Brother” in Chinese. Pulling one out on a busy street was a power move – at the time, only business leaders and the wealthy elite... https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3326367/pictures-big-bulky-mobile-phones-during-1980s-and-90s-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3326367/pictures-big-bulky-mobile-phones-during-1980s-and-90s-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 22 Sep 2025 10:15:08 +0000 Alexander Mak Alexander Mak In the 1980s, life in the New Territories was changing rapidly. New housing estates were opening in Tuen Mun and Yuen Long, yet travelling remained a daily struggle for many residents, as buses and minibuses were the only public transport linking the areas. To meet the needs of these growing communities, the Kowloon-Canton Railway Corporation (KCRC) set out in 1984 to build Hong Kong’s first modern Light Rail Transit (LRT) system. The single-deck light rail service was designed to provide fast... https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3325560/pictures-when-light-rail-transit-system-changed-travel-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3325560/pictures-when-light-rail-transit-system-changed-travel-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 15 Sep 2025 07:15:07 +0000 Dave Besseling Dave Besseling “A playground of massive, brightly coloured sculptures, for the children of Hongkong, which is being designed and made by an American sculptor, Paul Selinger, will be the first of its kind in Southeast Asia,” reported the South China Morning Post on October 29, 1967. “Instead of the usual steel pipe swings and slides embedded in a concrete or bitumened area, children will be able to play on the sculptures, made of coloured concrete and terrazzo set in turf. “Mr Selinger is planning eight to 10... https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3325198/when-sculptor-designed-first-its-kind-playground-hong-kong-kids?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3325198/when-sculptor-designed-first-its-kind-playground-hong-kong-kids?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 13 Sep 2025 22:15:08 +0000 Alexander Mak Alexander Mak After two years of construction, Hong Kong Disneyland opened its gates to the public on September 12, 2005, bringing a touch of magic to Penny’s Bay on Lantau Island. Although it is the smallest worldwide, as the first and only Disney park in Greater China until Shanghai Disneyland opened in 2016, the prime location and local cultural elements still make the Hong Kong park a beloved attraction for tourists and residents alike. Here’s a look back at opening day – and the lead-up to it. https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3324974/pictures-when-disneyland-opened-hong-kong-first-park-greater-china?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3324974/pictures-when-disneyland-opened-hong-kong-first-park-greater-china?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 11 Sep 2025 22:15:08 +0000 Alexander Mak Alexander Mak Once a year, the streets of Hong Kong fill with the scent of burning paper offerings, the haunting sounds of Chinese opera echoing from bamboo theatres in observance of the Hungry Ghost Festival, or Yulan Festival, traditionally held on the 15th day of the seventh lunar month. Buddhists and Taoists believe that during this “ghost month”, the gates of the underworld open and spirits return to the living world. To appease these wandering souls, Hongkongers prepare food, incense and paper money,... https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3324056/pictures-underworlds-gates-open-hungry-ghost-festival-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3324056/pictures-underworlds-gates-open-hungry-ghost-festival-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 02 Sep 2025 11:00:10 +0000 SCMP SCMP Nancy Kissel jailed for life By Polly Hui and Barclay Crawford This article was first published on September 2, 2005 The verdict is murder, the jury unanimous. For Robert Kissel’s father, justice has been served; for the killer’s mother, just tears. Nancy Kissel was sentenced to life in prison yesterday after seven jurors unanimously found her guilty of murdering her husband after one of Hong Kong’s most sensational trials. The 41-year-old mother of three was expressionless in the dock as guards... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/3324020/hong-kong-milkshake-murderer-nancy-kissel-jailed-life-2005-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/3324020/hong-kong-milkshake-murderer-nancy-kissel-jailed-life-2005-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 02 Sep 2025 07:04:44 +0000