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Indonesian-Hong Kong influencer Spoon Chan is an ever-popular face for beauty, fashion, and styling in the city. She leads over 140,000 followers on Instagram, sharing her routine and extraordinary life in Hong Kong being involved in the KOL and fashion industries.
Her YouTube channel, publishing makeup, fashion haul, travel and lifestyle vlogs under her pseudonym Lazy Dazzy (now Spoon Chan), have captured a strong following in a decade since the influencer began her online journey while studying at City University Hong Kong.
Working with Meta, Cathay Pacific, and Cosmopolitan Beauty Awards in recent months, we grabbed Spoon for a chat to explore her content creation journey and what path she’s created to explore her Indonesian, Chinese and Hong Kong cultural identities.
What was your youth and childhood like in Hong Kong? Do you have strong connections to your Indonesian side?
As much as I love Hong Kong and am so proud to call it my home, growing up in Hong Kong wasn’t easy for me as an immigrant kid. I encountered many third culture kid problems and struggles, cultural misunderstandings, and even racism throughout my childhood to teenage years. I was always seen as “different” for having darker skin and bringing traditional Indonesian snacks to school.
I’ve always thought, “who am I?” When I’m in Indonesia, the locals think I’m a foreigner, and when I’m in Hong Kong, the locals also think I’m a foreigner. This identity crisis is the epitome of being a third culture kid.
One thing about being between cultures is that you must navigate through speaking different languages. Born in Indonesia, I was first exposed to Bahasa, and I mainly speak Bahasa with my mother only. My father taught me Mandarin and Cantonese. I studied in a local school, so naturally Cantonese has become my most frequently spoken language. English is my fourth language, and I can also speak a handful of Korean from a semester abroad in Kyung Hee University in Seoul.
Whilst you were studying in university, what inspired you to begin your KOL career focusing on hair and makeup styling?
Most kids grow up and aspire to become a doctor, lawyer, or [towards a] professional career. Since the age of 10, I’ve always known that I wanted to become a content creator, and it’s surreal and amazing that I’ve achieved that goal.
I loved playing dress up as a kid. I would always steal my mum’s clothes, accessories and heels from her closet. Her outfits were always so catchy and bold, so I guess that’s how my interest in makeup and fashion started.
When I was a child, I loved looking at Xanga and Blogspot, where all the top KOL’s started their blogging journey, like Chiara Ferragni, Aimee Song, Jenn Im and Chriselle Lim. It was so simple and raw, but somehow, I was so fascinated and intrigued. I got sucked into their daily blogging, sharing their life, industry insights, knowledge and expertise. I wanted to be like them - to inspire and empower other individuals.
How did you begin your journey on YouTube?
I started my YouTube channel with my first video when I was 19, my second year of university. I love animation, graphic design and cinematography. I studied Creative Media at City University, so my college degree inspired my editing, visual effects and incorporating animation to my YouTube videos. Soon, my YouTube videos went viral and gained a following because they stood out from the crowd. Back in the day, everyone else’s video editing style was very simple and more on the vlogging style.
As soon as I graduated from university, I became a full-time content creator. I would fly out every month to attend global events hosted by brands like Dior Beauty, Estée Lauder, Too Faced, H&M and Benefit Cosmetics to represent Hong Kong.
Some of my favourite experiences are being the face of Bare Minerals, and interviewing Hailey Bieber at a global event in Tokyo in 2019, representing Hong Kong as the ambassador of Peninsula Hotels to join their global campaign, and becoming the tourism ambassador to Qantas Airlines promoting Sydney to Hong Kong.
What aspects of beauty, fashion, makeup and styling do you care about most and want to share online?
My content ranges from beauty, fashion and travelling to cooking. If it’s something I enjoy doing, it can be something I’ll share with my audience. I would love to focus on sharing more daily life vlogging, as I hope to engage with my audience more and become more vulnerable with my community in sharing more about my feelings and mental health related topics.
For long, I have been keen to share more about my culture and identity with my audience. I want to break down the misconception about my culture and want to reach out to more “Chindos” (Indonesian Chinese), third culture kids or any minorities like myself, to encourage them to embrace and spread our uniqueness with love and positivity. I want to use my platform to engage and educate more on multiculturalism and cultural identities.
What are some misconceptions about being a KOL, and content creating others may not understand?
The biggest misconception people have about being a content creator is the amount of work and effort that happens behind the scenes. Everything is well thought out and planned.
From brainstorming the storyboard, organising all the logistics, briefing the team and camera crew, shooting to post-production edits - it’s a lot of hard labour work without a big team, basically one-man-band [going] from zero to one hundred. There’s a lot of work behind every photo, reel and YouTube output.
I guess the misconceptions come from our content and job nature. Content creators are also part of the entertainment industry, in which our content always revolves around sharing fun, the latest and coolest trends, and what’s new in the market. We rarely show the nitty-gritty aspect of creating content.
What are your 2023 plans for your online career?
Where do I start?! There’s still so much I want to achieve. There are still milestones I want to reach, and business ventures I want to start in the beauty realm, and F&B, an industry my family has been part of for many years.
I’ve always wanted to have my own Indonesian pantry brand, which led me to my first F&B collaboration this year with Cookie DPT in September 2022. Just over Chinese New Year, I finally soft-launched my food brand Rumah which means “home” in Bahasa - it is a brand where family traditions are passed down through generations and a culinary pantry of our childhood favourites. Food that brings us closer to our culture.
You’ll see more of these types of collaborations next year. I don’t want to give too much away, but I’m excited for 2023 and new opportunities to come!
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Clockenflap, Asia’s premier international outdoor music and arts festival, has closed out their three-day 2025 edition with a showcase of global sounds, immersive art, and community spirit. Running from Dec. 5 to 7, the festival brought together international headliners, rising Asian acts, and homegrown talent across all its stages.
This year’s edition featured an eclectic, genre-spanning program that ranged from high-energy Asian pop and global indie to the atmospheric textures of shoegaze and post-rock, from driving techno and nu-disco to intimate acoustic sets — offering a seamless and rich soundscape that defined the weekend.
Each festival day opened with a minute of silence for the victims of the Tai Po fire. Seas of attendees stood in solemn unity, which became a poignant moment during the festival and was a powerful reminder of community and shared grief.
Photo by Clockenflap
Beyond the music, Clockenflap presented an array of arts attractions. Minimax: The Planets made its world debut as a mobile, three-act kinetic theatrical experience that blended theatre, music, circus arts, and contemporary dance.
The Robot Stage featured a programme of family-friendly shows and activities, including the puppet show Peace on Earth: A Pigeon’s Story, interactive percussion sessions with Drum Jam, and a fun and lively Lip Sync Battle. Fashion Asia also joined the festival with an exhibition featuring music-festival-inspired looks from the winners of its “10 Asian Designers to Watch 2025.”
Crowd favourites like the Carlsberg-powered Silent Disco and TamJai Avenue from Tam Jai International made an appearance at the festival.
Photo by ClockenflapPhoto by Clockenflap
Under the tagline “Made in Hong Kong, Made to Move,” three iconic rice noodle brands from TamJai International — TamJai Yunnan Mixian, TamJai SamGor Mixian, and TamJai Mixian — united for the first time and served their signature Hong Kong-style noodles, innovative snacks, and cocktails for a special Clockenflap-exclusive menu.
The brand also sold a merch collection in collaboration with the festival, featuring stylish tees, towels, and fun collectibles.
Photo by Clockenflap
TJI x CF Collaboration Tee in Black | Photo by TamJai InternationalTamJai "Tastebud Troopers" | Photo by TamJai International
In support of the Tai Po fire victims, Clockenflap and TamJai International donated all their on-site profits to the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals’ Tai Po Relief Fund and Mind HK’s Mental Health Relief Fund.
To close the weekend, Clockenflap announced that Blind Bird Tickets for Clockenflap 2026 are now available, priced at HK$1,690 for three-day weekend tickets via Ticketflap.
For more updates and information, follow Clockenflap on Instagram and Facebook.
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We all have that one friend whose outfits and style have more going on than some people’s entire living rooms. Their bags are jingling with charms, their taste is bold and explosive, and every detail of their look is delightfully extra, yet they somehow still look impossibly effortless.
The aesthetics of abundance have officially taken over Gen Z wardrobes. Minimalism? Out.Maximalism – often mistaken for main-character energy – is back in full swing, breathing color and life back into an increasingly dulled-out world.
But before you spiral into gift-giving paralysis this Christmas, we’ve rounded up some joy-sparking picks that match that friend's vibrant, playful energy.
Read on for our curated list of maximalist gems — from bespoke mahjong sets to bold statement accessories — that your impossible-to-shop-for friend will be genuinely excited to unwrap.
1. Bottega Animal Bag Charms
Website/ Bottega
Bottega Veneta’s Holiday Collection proves that it’s all in the details, leaning into a playful, maximalist spirit with its range of bag charms, from plush latticed elephant charms to bunny-shaped coin purses.
One standout is the adorable and versatile dog charm crafted in laminated Intreccio nappa leather and finished with a sleek leather lanyard — an ultra-tactile, joy-sparking accessory that feels both luxurious and whimsical.
Vaisselle is the homeware label you turn to when whimsy meets elegance — especially in vase form. Founded by Léa Zana, a fashion IT girl turned tableware designer, it’s the perfect destination for friends who love eclectic, vintage-inspired treasures. Each piece is handmade in Spain, infused with a touch of French heritage and global antique charm.
Shop online or visit Lane Crawford’s stores across Hong Kong.
3. Tom Ford Sunglasses
Website/ TOM FORD
If you’re ready to splurge a little, Tom Ford’s Bronson sunglasses are the statement pair worth every penny. The Bronson FT1044 stands out with its oversized frames that strike the perfect retro-meets-modern balance, chunky acetate that brings instant attitude, and tinted lenses. It has been spotted on everyone from Rihanna to Khloé Kardashian.
For your Gen Z friend who lives for bold, Y2K glamor, Diesel's Play-Glossy Crossbody Bag is a dream come true. Its asymmetric shape, playfully inspired by gaming controllers, looks like something Elastigirl would rock, with a smooth, bold red color and glossy finish. Crafted from recycled materials and featuring an adjustable strap for effortless crossbody styling, it’s the perfect blend of bold fashion statement and everyday functionality.
Looking for a unique gift for your grandparents or the board game enthusiasts in your life? This artisanal Zodiac-patterned mahjong set by local Hong Kong brand Glocal Mahjong is both stylish and playful, with Chinese zodiac-themed designs that add a sweet personal touch. But the collection doesn’t stop there. Explore matching mahjong-inspired metal “joy” bracelets, paperweights, and even tile-print socks. It’s a treasure trove of gifts for anyone who loves a little game-day glamor.
Marimekko is all about making a statement, with their signature playful florals and distinctive textiles. A piece from their holiday collection is perfect for anyone who loves a cheerful, maximalist touch in their home. Brighten up their space with the Unikko Deep Plate (20.5 cm, HK$360) for a pop of pattern at the table or treat them to the Unikko Bathrobe (HK$2395) for the ultimate cozy indulgence.
And for those who love entertaining, the bedazzling Syksy Long Tumblers (2 pieces), made from mouth-blown glass, will instantly elevate any kitchen bar.
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ComplexCon, the “World’s Fair of Youth Culture,” is returning for its third year this Mar. 21 to 22, 2026, at the AsiaWorld Expo! Known for being the place to be for streetwear, art, live music, food, and everything about pop culture, the festival is set to become the much-awaited event of the year!
In just two years, ComplexCon Hong Kong has become the ultimate cultural hotspot for Asia and beyond. The 2026 edition is set to pull out all the stops to push boundaries, fuel the next wave of creators, and continue to get bigger and better by delivering a weekend of creativity, collaboration, and culture that brings all kinds of fans together.
In its 2024 debut, ComplexCon brought 21 Savage, Edison Chen, and more under Verdy’s vision as Artistic Director. Last year’s edition was even bigger, with performances by Metro Boomin, Quavo, Zico, B.I., and NewJeans, and the fully immersive “ComplexCon Hotel” under Daniel Arsham’s artistic direction, gathering over 35,000 attendees from a variety of countries.
This year boasts nothing less, with the mind behind the global phenomenon THE MONSTERS and LABUBU, Kasing Lung, now taking the reins as ComplexCon 2026’s Artistic Director.
ComplexConCourtesy of ComplexCon
A celebrated Hong Kong artist and a global force in today’s pop culture scene, Kasing Lung first launched his THE MONSTERS series in 2015, featuring zoomorphic characters LABUBU, SPOOKY, TYCOCO, ZIMOMO, and PATO.
LABUBU has taken over the world with over 700 collectible variations now released worldwide. His solo work has also been featured in major exhibitions, including “THIS IS WHAT IT FEELS LIKE” (2020, Tokyo), the large-scale “EVERYBODY KNOWS” (2024, Hong Kong), and the 10th anniversary global tour “MONSTERS BY MONSTERS NOW AND THEN” (2025).
Kasing Lung | Courtesy of ComplexCon
As Artistic Director, Kasing Lung is set to weave his unique style and creativity into ComplexCon’s DNA. “I’m thrilled to share that I’ll be serving as the Artistic Director for ComplexCon Hong Kong 2026, joining THE MONSTERS for this incredible event,“ shared Kasing Lung in a press release. “I can’t wait to share the exciting experiences we’ve been preparing for everyone!”
As of writing, the Early Bird VIP Ticket Package has sold out, priced at HK$3,888. The VIP perks include the following:
A limited-edition collectible by the Artistic Director
Exclusive Priority Experience for Marketplace on the first event day
First-To-Shop Privilege
Exclusive VIP Standing Zone Complex Live! Concert Tickets
Access to the VIP Lounge
Priority access to all highly anticipated ComplexCon(versations)
Complementary off-menu specialty food by the invited chefs for Family Style Food Festival VIPs
Stay tuned for more updates and future ticket drops by visiting the ComplexCon website and following their official Facebook and Instagram pages!
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Hong Kong gyms aren’t famous for space or serenity. ONYX Admiralty changes that with a 20,000-square-foot flagship spread across three levels on Queen’s Road East. This new concept from GO24 Fitness blends high-performance training with boutique-style classes like reformer Pilates and Hyrox functional training, and recovery zones that look more like a spa than a sweaty locker room.
We signed up for a trial to see if ONYX’s mix of reformer Pilates and tech-powered recovery lives up to the buzz. Spoiler: it’s not just about sweating but also about how you recover, reset, and rethink what a gym can be.
First Impressions: Gold Doors and Hyrox Turf
Courtesy of ONYXCourtesy of ONYX
The entrance sets the tone: black panels trimmed in gold, more boutique hotel than gym. Inside, the scale hits you — three floors of open space, clean lines, and lighting that feels curated rather than clinical.
Cardio machines line up upstairs against floor-to-ceiling windows with city views. Downstairs in the basement, rows of dumbbells and cable stations sit under mirrored walls etched with reminders like “If there is no struggle, there is no progress,” setting the mode for what you’re training for.
Courtesy of ONYXCourtesy of ONYX
Then there’s the Hyrox zone: black and red turf lanes marked for sled pushes, wall balls stacked neatly against polished wood panels. It’s a nod to the global fitness race trend and a clear sign that ONYX isn’t here for typical workouts. Every corner feels deliberate, from Olympic lifting platforms to recovery spaces glowing softly behind frosted glass.
The Reformer Pilates Sweat
Courtesy of ONYX
Pilates sounds serene until you’re strapped into a reformer carriage, wondering why your abs feel like they’re on fire. The studio at ONYX is tucked away from the main floor — a minimalist space with glossy frames and padded platforms that look deceptively gentle.
The class by Joanne, the Polestar Pilates instructor, starts slow: breathing drills and gentle stretches to wake up your core. Then the tempo shifts. Leg presses against spring-loaded resistance, footwork that demands precision, and arm pulls that make you question your upper-body strength. Squats and lunges on a moving carriage are as intense as they sound. Add planks and spinal mobility drills, and you’ve got a workout that hits everything — upper body, lower body, and core — without a single dumbbell in sight.
Resistance here isn’t about plates; it’s about springs. Adjusting them changes the challenge, so beginners can keep it light while regular gym-goers can dial up the burn. And burn you will. Even as someone who trains regularly, we were sweating hard halfway through. Pilates works muscles you didn’t know existed, especially the deep stabilizers that weightlifting often ignores.
The instructor was calm but commanding, with clear cues and quick corrections if you’re way off. There was no music — it was never about the vibes because syncing breath with movement is the key. Beginners will love the accessibility and posture benefits, while experienced lifters will discover a new level of functional strength. It’s humbling, sweaty, and strangely addictive.
Recovery Rituals: Watching the Brave Ones
Courtesy of ONYX
If Pilates was humbling, the recovery zone was pure theater. We didn’t try contrast therapy, but the infrared sauna gave off a warm, amber glow, its pale wood panels and soft LED strips creating a calm, spa-like corner. Across the frosted glass, the cold plunge pool sat like a minimalist stone basin, water still and deceptively serene until someone decided to take the plunge.
Courtesy of ONYXCourtesy of ONYX
Watching people psych themselves up was half the entertainment. Some paced, others muttered affirmations, and then came the inevitable gasp when icy water hit skin. It’s dramatic, but there’s science behind it: alternating heat and cold boosts circulation, reduces inflammation, and sharpens mental clarity. Judging by the expressions, the mental clarity part kicks in fast.
Photo by The Beat Asia
Next to this area was the Hyperice Recovery area that was quieter, almost meditative if the cold plunge pool was not in use. Normatec compression boots hummed softly as they squeezed away soreness. Slip into these after a lower-body grind, and it feels like a deep-tissue massage without the awkward small talk. Compression therapy helps flush lactic acid and speeds recovery so you can hit your next session without hobbling.
Verdict & Tips
So, is ONYX Admiralty worth a visit? If you’re looking for more than a treadmill-and-dumbbell routine, yes. This is a full ecosystem for training, recovery, and performance. Beginners will appreciate the structured classes and supportive environment, while experienced lifters and Hyrox athletes will find plenty to challenge them — from sled pushes to reformer lunges.
Tips for first-timers:
Arrive early — Familiarize yourself with the reformer setup; it makes the first few minutes less intimidating.
Hydrate before and after — Pilates and recovery sessions can be surprisingly dehydrating.
Wear grip socks — They’re often required for reformer classes and help with stability.
Listen closely to instructions — Pilates moves aren’t always intuitive. If you lose track, don’t hesitate to ask for help; it’s better than guessing and risking poor form.
Adjust resistance wisely — Springs change everything. Start light and focus on control rather than chasing heavy resistance. Like weightlifting, effectiveness beats ego.
Bring a towel — You’ll sweat more than you think.
Expect soreness — Micro-tears mean progress. Recovery options like Normatec boots help, so use them. And don’t quit because of the discomfort — it eases with consistency as your body adapts.
Don’t skip the fun stuff — Even if you’re not plunging into icy water, watching friends brave the cold plunge is entertainment in itself.
Courtesy of ONYX
ONYX feels like a rethink of Hong Kong gym culture: train hard, recover smart, and do it all in a space that feels designed, not improvised.
Location: ONYX by GO24 Fitness, Basement, Shop A G/F &1/F, Tung Hey Building, 14/16 & 20 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai
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The stage is set, now it’s time to turn up the volume and wait.
Clockenflap, Hong Kong’s biggest international outdoor music and arts festival, has finally dropped the full lineup for this year’s event, announcing one of its most stacked rosters. Expect another weekend filled with hard-hitting tunes, genre-blurring tracks, and a cross-culture celebration of sound, dance, and culture. And to celebrate the occasion, The Beat Asia is collaborating with Clockenflap to run an exclusive newsletter giveaway for weekend passes! Continue reading to find out more.
Photo from Instagram/BLOC PARTYPhoto from Facebook/MY BLOODY VALENTINE
Among all the new acts, British indie-rock icons BLOC PARTY will be making their much-awaited Hong Kong debut as Saturday’s headliner, while Irish-English shoegaze legends MY BLOODY VALENTINE are set to play in Hong Kong for the first time as Sunday’s headliners.
Two of J-Pop’s hottest rising stars will also make their Hong Kong debut on Saturday, with Japanese singer-songwriter and former member of You’ll Melt More! ANO, and breakout solo star from chart-topping group Sexy Zone, KENTO NAKAJIMA 中島健人.
Other newly announced artists are US indie icons BRIGHT EYES, acclaimed Hong Kong singer/actress JACE 陳凱詠, Thai-Chinese dream-pop chanteuse MOON TANG, and fan favorite indie band WENDY WANDER 溫蒂漫步.
Photo from Instagram/JACE 陳凱詠Photo from Instagram/WENDY WANDER 溫蒂漫步
For the full lineup and schedule, visit the Clockenflap website here.
Full Lineup of Clockenflap 2025 | Photo from Instagram/Clockenflap
Set against Hong Kong’s iconic harbourfront, Clockenflap will once again feature the full, world-class festival experience that music fans have come to know and love, with multiple stages, an eclectic line-up of artists, art installations, and much more.
Tickets are now available via Ticketflap, Damai, and Maoyan. General admission for all three days is HKD$1,990, with single-day passes at HKD$1,280. Youth tickets are discounted, priced at HKD$1,590 (three-day pass) and HKD$880 (single-day pass). Children under three years can attend the festival for free, while those aged between three and 17 years need their own ticket. For international travelers, Japan Airline is offering exclusive travel packages to make the journey easy and seamless via this website. For a chance to win a pair of three-day passes, sign up to our newsletter to find out more!
With this amazing lineup, Clockenflap 2025 is shaping up to be one massively unforgettable experience to close the year. Follow Clockenflap on Instagram and Facebook for more information.
Clockenflap 2025 Central Harbourfront Event Space Fri, December 5 6:00 PM
onwards
Catch Rich Brian, Jacob Collier, Franz Ferdinand, and more at Clockenflap 2025, returning on Dec. 5-7, 2025, to Central Harbourfront. Grab your Early Bird tickets now!
To submit an entry in our giveaway available exclusively to The Beat Hong Kong subscribers, a form must be filled in by clicking the special link in any of the newsletters sent out. T&Cs apply below:
Giveaway period: Monday, Nov.17 to Tuesday, Nov.25, 2024
No purchase necessary to enter or win
Only open to Hong Kong residents only and participants must be at least 18 years of age or older
Participants must be subscribed to The Beat Asia’s newsletters and filled out the special form to be eligible to win
Participants will not be able win through engaging with The Beat Asia’s relevant social media posts
In case of any disputes, The Beat Asia reserves the right of final decision
In a digital world where influencers sell skincare routines and curated aesthetics, @blesiva_, or Belle, a 19-year-old university student, is doing something radically different.
With a fast-growing following of over 30k in just 10 months on Instagram, alongside a presence on YouTube and TikTok, she’s using her platforms not to promote products, but to feed the elderly, support the overlooked, and quietly rewrite what it means to be “influential” in Hong Kong, all while choosing to remain anonymous.
We chatted with Belle to hear about her motivations, the emotional weight of her work, and her hopes for a more compassionate Hong Kong.
Instagram/ @blesiva_
Armed with a trolley, a camera, and a heart full of empathy, Belle has built a one-woman movement that supports some of Hong Kong’s most overlooked individuals — elderly cardboard collectors, street vendors, and others living on the margins. Through her Instagram, she documents her journey of distributing meals and monetary aid, using social media not for self-promotion, but as a tool for crowdfunding and awareness.
Her videos are simple: a hand reaching out with a meal, a quiet “thank you,” a smile exchanged on a busy street. But behind each viral clip is a story of courage, compassion, and a deep discomfort with the inequality she sees around her.
“I’ve always been aware of my own privilege,” she says. “My family provides me with a great life, but I know not everyone gets that, and it’s not their fault. It’s just luck, and that feels unfair to me.”
While her videos may appear effortless, the journey behind them is anything but. Belle’s path to becoming one of Hong Kong’s most quietly impactful creators began with hesitation, self-doubt, and a deep desire to do something meaningful.
Belle’s first Instagram reel was posted in January this year, but her journey began long before that. “I procrastinated for a long time, wondering when or if I should do it,” she admits. “I’m not super extroverted either, and in my usual routine, I never really have to approach strangers.”
Inspired by creators like Josh Liljenquist and Aiden Kim, who used social media to fund acts of kindness, she decided to try. Her first outing was modest — buying bread from a local bakery with her private tutoring income and handing it out in Sham Shui Po. “People were really nice and really grateful, and I was glad I finally did it because I procrastinated for ages.”
That small act sparked something bigger. She kept posting, even when no one was watching. “There were very few likes, no attention. But I just kept doing it.” Then, a video blew up. Donations started coming in. Suddenly, she had the means to keep going — and to scale.
What makes Belle’s work resonate isn’t just what she does, but how she does it. “If I’m giving out meals and someone walks by and asks for one, I’m not going to say no,” she says. “Even if they do have a lovely apartment and a great life and they’re just taking a box of food from me, it’s just one box of food. I don’t have the judgment or the power to decide who actually needs help and who doesn’t.”
Her approach is rooted in empathy, not bureaucracy. One moment that stayed with her was when a cardboard-picking grandma received her favorite meal, a chicken rice. “She was so happy, like, literally jumping in her spot,” Belle recalls. “She said food is so expensive now, and [the meal's price] is basically her whole day’s work.”
Belle’s reflections go beyond charity — they’re a quiet manifesto for a more compassionate city.
“I feel like compassion and kindness in practice are really simple,” she says. “Just stopping for a conversation, smiling, or giving a few dollars to the beggars you see on the streets. So many people ignore them, but that kind of kindness can be normalized really easily in urban life.”
But with visibility comes criticism. Backlash for filming charitable interactions is common in today's digital age.
“There are definitely a lot of very cynical people on the internet,” she shares, “And I don’t understand this obsession with deciding who ‘deserves’ help.” Her philosophy is simple: “Let’s say I’m giving out meals and someone walks by and asks for one, I’m not going to say no. Ok, maybe they dress well, maybe they’re not that old. But how do you know they’re not sleeping under a bridge?”
She adds, “There’s no way I’m going to ask people to prove they need help, like, ‘Show me your bank account.’ That’s not how it works.”
Instagram/ @blesiva_Instagram/ @blesiva_
She’s learned to tune out the noise. “If you know what you’re doing comes from goodwill, and most people support you, then you don’t need to let criticism or backlash get to you. I post on social media so I can continue doing what I do. If I didn’t post, I’d only be able to do it a few times.”
Belle’s work also challenges the traditional definition of an influencer. In a digital landscape dominated by curated lifestyles and consumerism, she offers a different kind of influence — one rooted in empathy, action, and social responsibility. “I used to follow all these influencers who influenced me to buy the newest clothes, the newest lipsticks,” she says. “But I started wondering: why aren’t there influencers who inspire you to be a better person?”
Now, she’s become that kind of influencer herself — without ever showing her face. “There’s a group of high schoolers who started an account doing exactly what I do, buying and distributing food, and that’s honestly so cool,” she says. “That’s exactly what I hoped would happen: to inspire others to do the same.”
Why do you choose to give directly rather than through organizations?
Instagram/ @blesiva_
Giving directly allows me to film what I do and hopefully inspire some people and gain support. That’s my own reason for giving directly and I think it just works better with my schedule. I can go out whenever I have time.
With organizations, you have to register and follow their schedule. But for what I do, if I have free time, I’ll go out and give out food. That works well for me because I’m a uni student, so my schedule’s all over the place.
Have you faced any personal doubts or fears along the way, and what have you learned about yourself through this journey?
I think at the start, like when my first video blew up, I was obviously super excited. Nothing had ever gone viral for me before, and I was getting so much support. But I think with anything on social media, when you gain a lot of attention, there’s always criticism that comes with it.
At first, I was checking all the comments and DMs constantly. I used to respond to the negative ones too, but I realized that most people who criticize me are very set in their ways. They don’t really want to hear my reasoning or explanation. And that made me feel bad, because I knew I was just trying to help people but I was still getting criticized. So eventually, I stopped looking at comments for the most part.
Sometimes I do translate them, but I just ignore it. I know what I’m doing, and I stand behind it. I’m proud of it. I don’t think I’m doing anything bad. Everyone has their own perception of the world, shaped by their own reality. If someone’s living a miserable life, they’re probably going to have a miserable perception of things, and I can’t really change that.
What is something people might not know about poverty in Hong Kong?
We have an aging population, and a lot of them don’t have a support system like a family to look after them. It’s really sad that so many of them still have to work. Cardboard picking is a lot of work, especially when you’re pushing a heavy trolley, and most of them have some kind of health issue. Some do get government benefits, but it’s very little and not enough to sustain themselves.
One thing that really shocked me is how common cardboard picking is among the elderly in Hong Kong. It’s actually quite necessary — if you didn’t have these elderly people picking up cardboard, you’d have stores overflowing with boxes. But the government is really strict about how they store their carts. They even confiscate their trolleys if they’re parked in the wrong place or left overnight. And once it’s confiscated, they can’t get it back. That feels like picking on the weak, which I really don’t like.
Another thing about poverty in Hong Kong is how easy it is to ignore. You see the impoverished and the homeless, but you don’t actually know where they live. Only when you see the subdivided flats, cage homes, coffin homes, do you really understand the magnitude of poverty here. People think of Hong Kong as the beautiful skyline, but they don’t really see how poverty affects the people living in these areas.
What changes would you like to see in how the city supports the elderly and marginalized communities?
I think just from the perspective of everyday people, it starts with being a little kinder.
Even if you don’t buy them anything, you can stop for a conversation. A lot of these elderly people live alone, and when you live alone, you don’t really have anyone to talk to. Just talking with me makes some of them really happy because they feel listened to.
Even with beggars on the street, I hear people say, “Oh, you shouldn’t give money to beggars because they’re not doing anything.” But don’t you think they would be doing something if they could? The job market is terrible, and it’s really hard for some of them to find work, especially if they’re disadvantaged or disabled.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to use social media for good while staying ethical and respectful?
Instagram/ @blesiva_
Figure out what you want to do and how you want to impact people. For me, I really want to help people, and the way I do that is by giving out food. I want people to feel inspired by my videos on social media, so that’s how I decide what kind of content to make, how I edit, and how I post.
If you know what you’re doing comes from goodwill, and most people support you, then you don’t need to let criticism or backlash get to you. Not that you shouldn’t listen at all, you can take it into account, but a lot of people are just hating to hate. That really shouldn’t affect you.
There are so many reels about “becoming the best version of yourself,” studying hard, going to the gym, eating healthy. And that’s great, but it’s all about improving your own life. I feel like being the best version of yourself should also include how you affect the people around you.
What do “compassion” or “kindness” mean to you in practice, and how do you think these can be normalized in urban life?
Instagram/ @blesiva_
Being kind doesn’t mean you have to be a ray of sunshine every day or have a perfect temper. It’s just about small things — supporting elderly people selling goods on the street, tipping them a little more, or even getting involved in volunteering events or supporting social enterprises and organizations.
Are there new formats, collaborations, or directions you're looking forward to exploring in the future?
I do have some other content creators who’ve reached out to collaborate, which I’m quite excited about, though nothing’s confirmed yet. The content will still be around distributing food, but it’ll be a different type of format from what I usually do.
I hope that by collaborating with people others look up to, it’ll make an impact, like, “Oh, I can do this too.” I’ll be able to reach more people.
What would you say to those who feel powerless in making an impact?
Instagram/ @blesiva_
If you’re feeling powerless, I get it. When I procrastinated, it was because I was scared. It took me six months from having the idea to actually doing something, and I wish I could get that time back.
How you spend your days is how you spend your life. If you want to help people, or even if it’s not about helping, but just pursuing something you’re passionate about, you should go for it. Nothing’s going to happen overnight. You have to put in the effort and actually try.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
To see Belle’s meaningful work in action, check out her videos and updates on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Her quiet acts of compassion are changing lives, and her feed is a reminder that kindness doesn’t need a spotlight to make an impact.
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Forget skyscrapers and vehicle noise — this November, the rhythm of Hong Kong shifts to the sway of palm trees and crashing waves. CT Music Fest Vol. 3 is back, and it’s turning Cheung Chau Island into a sanctuary of sound, art, and open skies. If your soul’s been craving a creative reset, this is your cue.
Hosted at the Saiyuen Camping Adventure Park, CT Music Fest Vol. 3 runs from November 21 to November 23, 2025, offering a curated lineup of live performances, indie film screenings, and immersive art installations. The festival kicks off Friday, Nov. 21 in the evening with an intimate opening set, followed by full-day programs on Saturday and Sunday.
Instagram/ CT Music Festival
Organized by the creative collective Chez Trente, the festival is known for spotlighting emerging talent and alternative voices in Hong Kong’s arts scene.
The first wave of the lineup includes local and international acts, spanning genres from indie rock and funk to jazz fusion and experimental pop.
Featured performers include YELLOW!, Le Groupe Electrogène Fanfare Club, Jonas & Friends, Teenage Riot, Murphy & The Lawyers, Funkee Tung, Swing Pockets, Mr. Koo, Cantomania, Indigo Town, Ivan Sit, and Frankie Lam. With such a diverse roster, expect everything from brass-heavy street grooves to soulful singer-songwriter sets and genre-defying collaborations.
Instagram/ Saiyuen Camping Adventure ParkInstagram/ Saiyuen Camping Adventure Park
Saiyuen’s unique setting adds a layer of adventure to the experience. Attendees can book glamping tents or traditional camping spots to stay on-site, turning the festival into a full weekend retreat. With Cheung Chau’s beaches, hiking trails, and seafood stalls just a short walk away, it’s a rare chance to unplug without leaving the city far behind.
Tickets are available in several tiers via Eventbrite:
Opening Night (Fri): HK$250
Full Festival Pass (Fri–Sun):
Adult: HK$1,360
Young (12–17): HK$1,110
VIP: HK$2,360 (includes free-flow drinks and lounge access)
Single-Day Passes:
Saturday: Adult HK$780 / Young HK$630 / VIP HK$1,280
Sunday: Adult HK$630 / Young HK$530 / VIP HK$1,130
Kids under 12 get in free with an adult
For music lover or those craving a creative escape, CT Music Fest Vol. 3 promises a soulful, sun-soaked weekend that’s chill and electric. Visit CT Music Festival’s official website and Instagram for updates. Meanwhile, follow Chez Trente’s Instagram and Facebook for more events and happenings.
Location: Saiyuen, Cheung Chau, DD CC Lot 12
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This October, Hong Kong welcomes a new kind of Halloween celebration with the launch of SPOOKY Halloween, the city’s first-ever outdoor music carnival dedicated to the season of thrills.
Held at the Wan Chai Harbourfront Event Space from October 24 to November 2, 2025, the event spans over 130,000 square feet of immersive entertainment, combining live music, themed attractions, and family-friendly activities in one dynamic waterfront venue.
Courtesy of Klook
Organized by Live Nation Electronic Asia and divided into three distinct zones, SPOOKY Halloween is designed to appeal to both partygoers and casual visitors.
Zones A and B will be open daily throughout the ten-day celebration, featuring a witch-themed carnival, glowing pumpkin fields, illusion mazes, bonfire stages, and interactive games. These areas are ideal for families and casual visitors looking to enjoy the festive atmosphere without the intensity of the concert crowds.
Instagram/ Steve AokiInstagram/ Zedd
Meanwhile, Zone C hosts the main stage performances, with a lineup of international and local artists performing across two weekends: October 24–26 and October 31–November 2.
The lineup is a genre-blending mix of international and local talent, including global headliners Zedd, Steve Aoki, R3HAB and Rae Sremmurd.
Instagram/ MC CheungInstagram/ Novel Fergus
Local stars such as Hins Cheung, MC Cheung, JW, and Novel Fergus will bring a homegrown pulse to the stage. A special Halloween night performance by Japan’s XG adds extra excitement to the October 31 festivities.
Instagram/ Zedd
Over the last weekend, the SPOOKY Halloween festival arrived with impressive debut performances, proving that Halloween here is about more than just costumes — it's about a total vibe shift. The Wan Chai Harbourfront welcomed a high-energy, nostalgic set from DJ Zedd, creating the ultimate party mood. The crowd got an extra thrill with the appearance from rappers Swae Lee and Slim Jxmmi in their duo, Rae Sremmurd, solidifying the festival's cool credentials and marking a truly exciting moment for the city’s nightlife.
Tickets are available at Klook in multiple tiers to suit different preferences. Admission to both the main stage and carnival zones is priced at HK$680 per day. Visitors who prefer the carnival experience without the concerts can opt for a more affordable ticket: HK$100 for adults, HK$50 for youth aged 6 to 17, and free entry for children under 6. Game tokens are sold separately at HK$20 per play.
For more details of the event, follow their Instagram and Facebook. Meanwhile, you can check out Live Nation Electronic Asia’s website and follow them on Instagram and Facebook for more happenings around Asia.
Location: Wan Chai Harbourfront Event Space, 3 Hung Hing Road, Wan Chai
SPOOKY Halloween Wan Chai Harbourfront Event Space Fri, October 24 5:00 PM
- 10:30 PM
Celebrate Halloween at SPOOKY Halloween, Hong Kong’s first-ever music carnival from Oct. 24 to Nov. 2, 2025, at Wan Chai Harbourfront.
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If fake blood and plastic fangs aren’t cutting it this Halloween, how about something permanent? Trick or Ink 2025 is bringing Hong Kong its first-ever tattoo festival inside a shopping mall, and it’s set to leave a lasting impression. From Oct. 31 to Nov. 2, 2025, the 3rd and 4th floors of Airside in Kai Tak will transform into a buzzing hub of ink, artistry, and Halloween flair.
Photo from Instagram/ Trick or Ink 2025
With nearly 80 local tattoo artistson-site, the event offers a rare opportunity to get tattooed right there and then, whether you’re booking ahead or walking in for a spontaneous flash piece. Styles range from fine-line minimalism to bold neo-traditional, anime-inspired designs, and dark illustrative work that channels the spooky season. Each artist brings a distinct voice and technique, turning the venue into a living gallery of skin and story.
Beyond the ink, Trick or Ink delivers a full sensory experience. Expect interactive games, prize giveaways, and immersive Halloween decor that turns Airside into a spooky-chic playground for families, friends, and curious passersby. Pop-up booths will showcase merch, artist portfolios, and possibly themed food and drink from local vendors.
Photo from Instagram/Trick or Ink 2025Photo from Instagram/Trick or Ink 2025
Admission is free, making it one of the most accessible art festivals in town. This is a perfect event for tattoo enthusiasts or those curious about Hong Kong’s evolving creative scene to explore body art as both personal expression and cultural celebration.
Organized to spotlight the city’s vibrant tattoo community, Trick or Ink reframes ink from subculture to spotlight, placing it in the heart of a mainstream retail space and aligning it with the playful, transformative spirit of Halloween.
Head to Airside this Halloween and celebrate creativity that lasts far beyond the weekend. For full tattoo artist lineups, follow the Instagram of the event and the organizer.
Location: Airside, 3/F & 4/F, 2 Concorde Road, Kai Tak, Kowloon
Dates: Oct. 31 to Nov. 2, 2025
Opening Hours: 12 PM to 10 PM (Oct. 31), 10 AM to 10 PM (Nov. 1 and 2)
Admission: Free entrance
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In the heart of Hong Kong’s fast-paced urban sprawl, where skyscrapers crowd the skyline and ambition pulses through every street, a quiet revolution has been unfolding — one in the squared circle. Professional wrestling has found a home in the city thanks to a handful of passionate pioneers. At the center of this movement stands Bitman: wrestler, mentor, and president of the Hong Kong Pro-Wrestling Federation (HKWF).
The Beat Asia had a conversation with Bitman ahead of HKWF’s upcoming event on Friday, Oct. 24, 2025, stepping into his world: a high-impact arena of sweat-soaked storytelling, cinematic grit, and grassroots resilience.
Known for his hybrid wrestling style and community-first ethos, Bitman is both a community builder and a ring warrior, shaping Hong Kong’s wrestling identity.
Courtesy of Bitman
As a kid growing up in Hong Kong, Bitman was captivated by the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), now World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) and icons like Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair.
“Those larger-than-life characters and the high-stakes drama felt like a live-action comic book,” he recalls. “It was the perfect escape in a city that never slows down like ours.”
That childhood fascination evolved into a calling. In 2009, Bitman stepped into the ring through the newly formed HKWF, training in a modest gym in Fo Tan. Their early shows were humbly held in warehouse venues with just a small group of fans, but the vision was bold.
“What keeps me going is the family we’ve built, the energy of the crowd, mentoring new talent, and showing the world that Hong Kong belongs in the global wrestling conversation. Wrestling isn’t just a job and it’s how I tell stories, with sweat and heart.”
Bitman describes his community as “tighter than a figure-four leglock. Since day one in 2009, we trained together in cramped gyms, shared meals after shows, and supported each other through tough tours.”
Courtesy of HKWFCourtesy of HKWF
The federation's creative approach reflects the city’s cinematic legacy. “HKWF promotes culture by blending athletic spectacle with Hong Kong’s storytelling flair like high-flying moves inspired by our action cinema roots,” Bitman adds. “Beyond the ring, we run workshops, youth programs, and collaborations that help demystify wrestling and turn skeptics into superfans. In a city where space and funding are always tight, HKWF plays a crucial role as the bridge, making wrestling accessible, inclusive, and unmistakably Hong Kong.”
Wrestling in Hong Kong isn’t just about the spectacle, it’s about survival. The city’s high rents and limited space make venues and rings a luxury, forcing collectives like HKWF to get creative. “Space and visibility are the biggest challenges,” Bitman explains. “With Hong Kong’s sky-high rent, rings and venues are expensive, so we often make use of warehouses or shared spaces.”
Courtesy of BitmanCourtesy of Bitman
But it’s not just logistics — it’s perception. “Some locals still see wrestling as ‘fake’ American entertainment, not the athletic art form it really is,” he says. “Building a fanbase takes serious grassroots hustle.”
Without the backing of major TV deals, HKWF relies on ticket sales, sponsors, and sheer passion. “Funding’s tough too because we’re indie at heart,” Bitman adds. “And post-COVID, travel restrictions hit our international tours hard. But these challenges push us to innovate — we’re leaning into online content and pop-up events, turning limitations into the kind of underdog energy that makes HK wrestling raw and real.”
Managing to organize regular events in recent years, this underdog energy was set to shine even brighter this year at “Ring of Harbour” on September 25, HKWF’s first-ever outdoor wrestling showcase at Central Harbourfront’s AIA Vitality Park. The event was designed as a cultural collision of athleticism and international flair, featuring over 20 wrestlers from Mexico, Ireland, India, and Hong Kong. It was also the opening act for “The Latin Kaleidoscope,” a festival hosted by MexCham HK to celebrate Latin American culture in Hong Kong. But nature had other plans — a typhoon forced its postponement, leaving fans and fighters disappointed but undeterred.
Courtesy of HKWF
Now, HKWF is channeling that momentum into its next major event: “Shin Squared Circle: Lucha Libre VS Puroresu,” set for October 24 at Chai Wan’s Youth Square.
“Get ready for fireworks — this clash of titans pits Mexico’s aerial wizards against Japan’s stiff-shot samurai in a dream feud,” Bitman teases. “Expect a stacked card: Opening high-fly tag with Hong Kong’s Outer Space stable against lucha imports for flip-fest frenzy; mid-card grudge where Mikey Man defends his AWGC strap in a puroresu-style ironman bout, building to brutal submissions.”
The storyline is classic invasion of arc gold. “Luchas ‘raiding’ our turf, sparking betrayals and alliances, culminating in a main-event mask-vs.-title war that’s equal parts drama and destruction,” Bitman says. “And yes, there’s a twist: a surprise HK-Japan pact to fend off the invaders. It’s pure adrenaline, with narrative hooks that’ll keep fans buzzing long after the final bell.”
Bitman’s story isn’t just about building a wrestling promotion — it’s about carving out a space for Hong Kong identity in a global sport. Through HKWF, he’s helped transform wrestling from a niche curiosity into a vibrant subculture that blends athleticism, storytelling, and local flavor. From cramped gyms to international partnerships, from typhoon cancellations to packed venues, the journey has been anything but predictable.
Courtesy of HKWF
Yet through it all, Bitman remains grounded in the belief that wrestling is more than entertainment — it’s a mirror of life. The ring becomes a stage for grit, redemption, and community. And as Hong Kong continues to evolve, so too does its wrestling scene, with Bitman leading the charge not just as a performer, but as a mentor, promoter, and cultural architect.
Now, in his own words, Bitman shares more about the people who inspire him, the philosophy behind his craft, and what fans, new and old, can expect from the roar of the ring.
Are there any local wrestlers you particularly admire?
Courtesy of HKWF
Definitely — Jason Lee stands out. He’s a homegrown beast from our early HKWF days, and he’s gone on to hold the NWA World Junior Heavyweight Championship, wrestling across Japan and beyond. His technical skill and resilience inspire me. He took all the doubt and turned it into gold.
We’re part of a generation that blends grit with charisma, and we’ve helped put Hong Kong on the map. Guys like Jason aren’t just peers — they’re the reason our scene feels solid and unshakable.
If a young person wanted to become a wrestler in Hong Kong, what advice would you give them?
First, commit to the grind.
Start with the basics like push-ups, squats, running. Build your body before you even step into a ring. Find a local gym and get trained the right way; don’t try to wing it or you’ll risk injury.
Study the craft: watch everything from New Japan’s “Strong Style Evolved” to WWE’s storytelling, but adapt it to your own.
Network relentlessly and if you can, train overseas in places in Japan and Taiwan.
Most of all, be patient. We started with 50 fans; now we sell out. Stay humble, respect the ring, and remember — it’s 10% athleticism, 90% heart. Hong Kong needs more dreamers. You could be one of them.
Are there any collaborations or international exchanges that have helped elevate Hong Kong wrestling?
Courtesy of HKWF
Definitely — those partnerships have been game-changers.
Our 2012–2015 collaboration with Japan’s Pro Wrestling ZERO1 brought in technical masters and gave our talent global exposure. Jason Lee, for example, went on to win NWA titles abroad. We’ve also worked with Taiwan’s Impact Wrestling Love, where I defended belts and picked up new high-spot techniques.
More recently, our 2023 alliance with mainland China’s King of Pro Wrestling (KOPW) and INFIN Pro Wrestling opened cross-border talent swaps, blending styles and packing shows with diverse rosters. And our WWE Tryout in 2016 put Hong Kong on the global radar, inspiring a wave of hopefuls. These exchanges aren’t just travel as they evolved our style, infusing puroresu stiffness, lucha flair, and everything in between into our unique HK hybrid.
Wrestling blends athleticism and storytelling — how do you personally navigate that balance?
Courtesy of Bitman
It's like directing your own action movie — half athleticism, half storytelling, but the story always drives the stunts.
Physically, I drill every move to perfection. High-flying spots need to land clean to keep the drama alive without breaking the moment. But the real magic is in the emotional arc.
A grudge match isn’t just about chops but betrayal, redemption, and giving the crowd that cathartic release. I build those beats into promos that reflect real emotions like channeling Hong Kong’s hustle into underdog fire. If the story doesn’t land, the athleticism feels empty. If the moves don’t pop, the story drags. So I listen to my opponent in the ring and the crowd’s energy. That’s the balance. That’s why wrestling grabs you — it’s life, amplified in the ring.
Do you think Hong Kong’s wrestling culture leans more toward performance or real combat? How does it compare to places like Mexico, Japan, or the U.S.?
Courtesy of Bitman
Hong Kong leans heavily into performance, almost like a martial arts opera. You’ll see flashy flips and character-driven brawls that echo our kung fu film heritage, but the combat is choreographed and designed for spectacle, not pain.
Compared to Mexico’s lucha libre, we’re like cousins: both love aerial moves and masked personas, but lucha is rooted in family-feud folklore, with clear lines between heroes and villains. Japan’s puroresu is our stiff uncle — brutal and strong style, heavy psychology, and strikes that feel like thunder. Then there’s the U.S. WWE scene, which is all about big promos, pyros, and soap-opera drama.
Hong Kong’s style is our own remix with performance at the core but borrowing Japan’s intensity and Mexico’s flair to create a unique East-meets-West pulse.
How do you prepare yourself for each match, both mentally and physically?
Physically, it’s all about ritual. I start my mornings with cardio, usually runs along Victoria Harbour to clear my head, then hit afternoon weights, focusing on core strength and explosiveness. After that, it’s ring drills with partners to fine-tune timing and flow.
My diet stays clean with high-protein dim sum twists like steamed fish and greens, and absolutely no junk before a show.
Mentally, I visualize the match like a story as I replay the arc in my head, use affirmations like “Own the narrative,” and listen to a quiet playlist of old-school WWE and New Japan themes to lock in. Right before the bell, I take deep breaths, chat with my opponent to build chemistry, and soak in the crowd’s energy. It’s a full-body, full-mind prep.
Win or lose, I step into that ring feeling unbreakable.
What do you think is the most important quality for a wrestler?
Courtesy of BitmanCourtesy of Bitman
Adaptability, hands down. The ring is unpredictable with slippery mats, off-night crowds, last-minute changes to the card. You’ve got to pivot fast without losing the story. That’s what separates the survivors from the stars.
Look at Ho Ho Lun, who went from indie basements to WWE spotlights, or Jason Lee, who switches styles seamlessly across borders. Physiques fade, moves evolve, but that chameleon instinct keeps you safe, sharp, and relevant. In Hong Kong’s ever-shifting scene, adaptability is useful and essential.
How has the local audience evolved over the years? Are you seeing more engagement or new types of fans?
It’s been a complete transformation.
Back in 2009, we had maybe 50 curious skeptics. Now we’re drawing 500+ passionate fans who chant, cheer, and know the storylines. Social media’s played a huge role — Instagram clips of our high spots go viral and pull in Gen Z gamers and pop culture fans who love the drama.
Families show up now too — kids in masks, parents reliving their ‘80s WWF memories. Since the WWE buzz hit Hong Kong, we’ve seen more expats and tourists, plus fans crossing over from mainland China thanks to our partnerships with KOPW and INFIN.
Engagement is through the roof: Cantonese chants, fan art, even merch collabs. It’s a diverse crowd now with office workers, students and creatives — and that evolution feels like victory.
What aspects in a wrestling event do you think audiences in Hong Kong enjoy the most?
Courtesy of HKWF
It’s the spectacle with heart. Our fans love high-flying chaos like moonsaults off cages and wild dives, but what really hooks them are the stories behind the action. Rivalries that echo Hong Kong’s hustle and grit make it personal.
Our crowds love the interactive vibe: Singalongs to entrance themes, “This is awesome” pops for near-falls, and post-show meets where we sign merch over bubble tea. Cultural touches like dim sum jokes or neon-lit entrances give it that local flavor. At the end of the day, it’s the escape in a high-pressure city, that communal roar turns strangers into a roaring family.
What can first-time attendees expect from your next event? Any surprises or standout matches?
Courtesy of HKWF
Energy overload — like a live HK action flick, but you’re ringside! Expect vibrant chaos: Colorful masks, thunderous chops, and dives that defy gravity, all in a packed venue pulsing with Cantonese cheers.
First-timers? Grab seats early for the full immersion — that electric pre-bell hush and the hype on the next second.
Standouts: The main lucha-puro hybrid tag, flair meets fury in a 20-minute epic, blending technical locks with quebradas. It’s welcoming, wild, and unforgettable. Come hungry for the roar!
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Secure your ticket for "Shin Squared Circle: Lucha Libre VS Puroresu" via POPTICKET while they're still available.
Follow Bitman on Instagram for personal updates on wrestling, and HKWF's Instagram and Facebook for event updates. Meanwhile, event highlights can be viewed on HKWF's YouTube channel.
Shin Squared Circle: Lucha Libre VS Puroresu
Date: Friday, October 24, 2025
Entrance: 7PM
Location: Chai Wan’s Youth Square, 238 Chai Wan Road, Chai Wan, Hong Kong
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