Fighting in exile How a Hong Konger in Taiwan warns against China

A former Hong Kong protester living in exile in Taiwan continues his fight against Chinese rule, warning others of the growing influence of Beijing over the once-autonomous territory. Tong Wai-Hung, who was arrested in 2019 for participating in pro-democracy demonstrations, has been living in Taiwan since leaving Hong Kong six years ago. His name still appears on the wanted list of Hong Kong authorities due to recent calls for a boycott of elections on social media. The red flag of the People's Republic of China now dominates Hong Kong’s skyline. The mass protests that once filled the streets have faded into memory. The new leadership in Beijing shows no tolerance for dissent. Those who resist the current regime face severe consequences. Tong, who teaches Muay Thai and self-defense in Taiwan, says he will continue fighting for as long as he lives. “I will fight my whole life,” he says. Tong was among the millions who took to the streets during the summer of 2019, protesting against increasing Chinese control over Hong Kong. It was the last major demonstration of civil society before police used tear gas to quell the protests. Since then, the city has undergone a dramatic transformation. “We had our own culture, our lifestyle, our system, but now I see that Hong Kong is just another part of China,” he says. Hong Kong was a British colony until 1997, when it was handed back to China under the principle of “One Country, Two Systems.” This arrangement allowed Hong Kong to maintain its autonomy while remaining part of China. However, the political and legal independence of the city has significantly diminished. Tong claims that China has broken its promise to govern Hong Kong according to this principle. “China has the final say, but Hong Kong should be governed with respect for local politics, history, and culture,” he argues. In Taipei, Tong often visits a traditional café reminiscent of Hong Kong. The walls are adorned with memorabilia of the past protest movement and democratic ideals. “I love Taiwan, but there are very few real Hongkongers left in the world today, so I must preserve the culture,” he explains. Despite his efforts, the threat of retaliation persists. Recently, unknown individuals sprayed the entrance of his martial arts studio with red paint. To protect his neighbors, Tong relocated his studio to a new location. Tong’s struggle against forgetting and suppression carries risks. He believes the Communist Party of China aims to instill fear and make him feel guilty and isolated. His actions highlight the ongoing tensions between the mainland and the exiled community. As he continues to teach and advocate, the future of Hong Kong’s identity remains uncertain, shaped by both historical legacies and present-day realities.