Honouring Local Impact
For the past 30 years, GQ’s Men Of The Year has been celebrated for its authoritative perspective and sharp eye for talent. From Hollywood megastars and Nobel Prize winners to tech giants, every honouree has been a trailblazer of their time.
Now that this iconic event has landed in Hong Kong, GQ Hong Kong has selected its inaugural five “Men Of The Year” cover stars: Louis Koo, Lee Byung-hun, Ren Meguro, Yu Shi, and Han So-hee.
While celebrating Hong Kong’s unique position as Asia’s cosmopolitan hub and its global outlook, GQ Hong Kong also turns its focus inward to highlight local talent. The “Local Heroes” initiative is a deep dive into the heart of the city, shining a spotlight on individuals who have made a tangible impact on Hong Kong society, shaped its cultural identity, challenged traditional norms, and carried a forward-thinking vision for the future. These are the “Local Heroes”—individuals who stay true to their values and their dreams, refusing to simply follow the tide. They embody and redefine the essence of the “Hong Kong spirit”.
What Makes A GQ Hong Kong Local Hero?
“Local Heroes” is more than just a label—it carries profound and multifaceted meaning:
- Rooted Yet Boundless: Their careers and identities are deeply anchored in Hong Kong, drawing inspiration and strength from the city’s rich culture. Yet, their achievements and vision extend far beyond the city’s borders, earning them international recognition and acclaim. Through their work, they bring a piece of Hong Kong onto the global stage.
- Influence and Cultural Impact: These individuals are more than just leaders in their fields—they are cultural architects. Whether through film, art, design, sports, or business innovation, their work shapes society’s values, aesthetics, and way of life, redefining what Hong Kong’s cultural landscape looks like today.
- Disruption and Vision: They challenge the status quo, breaking boundaries and redefining norms with bold ideas and fearless innovation. Behind their groundbreaking work lies a keen understanding of future trends and a visionary mindset, positioning them as pioneers pushing their industries into new frontiers.
- Unwavering Dedication: In the face of constant change and challenges, they demonstrate remarkable resilience and focus. No matter how turbulent the world around them becomes, they remain deeply committed to their craft, their pursuit of excellence, and their love for this city. It is this steadfast dedication that fuels their strength and success.
The 10 GQ Hong Kong “Local Heroes” Revealed
This year’s ten “Local Heroes” perfectly embody these defining qualities. Hailing from diverse fields, they collectively weave a brilliant portrait of Hong Kong’s finest.
Louis Koo (One Cool by Louis Koo): Whether in front of or behind the cameras, Louis Koo has devoted himself to nurturing emerging talent and reviving Hong Kong’s film industry. Through his production company and his role as president of the Hong Kong Performing Artistes Guild, Koo has demonstrated unwavering commitment and visionary leadership, strengthening Hong Kong’s cultural footprint.
Kasing Lung: Renowned for his creative brilliance, Kasing Lung has taken the European “art toy” movement to extraordinary new heights with his imagination. His whimsical “The Monsters” series, especially the beloved Labubu, has captured the hearts of fans worldwide. By transforming toys into collectible art, Lung has firmly established Hong Kong’s presence on the global art and design stage.
Ryan Choi (Hong Kong Fencing Team): As a leading figure in Hong Kong’s fencing scene, Ryan Choi has earned international acclaim as he makes his way up to the top of the world rankings. Beyond his personal achievements, Choi’s success has inspired a new generation of Hong Kong youth to embrace sports.
André Fu: Known for his masterful blend of Eastern serenity and Western minimalism, André Fu has created awe-inspiring spaces that resonate globally. Grounded in cultural depth and seamlessly appealing to an international audience, his designs exemplify the ideal harmony of being deeply rooted in Hong Kong while thriving on a global scale.
Juno Mak: A true disruptor in Hong Kong’s cultural sphere, Juno Mak has continuously reinvented himself—from singer to director—with his bold creative vision. His films Rigor Mortis and Sons of the Neon Night stand as testaments to his daring auteur style, breaking genre conventions and pushing the boundaries of Hong Kong cinema into uncharted territory.
Tinly Wong: A trailblazer in Hong Kong’s traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) industry, Tinly Wong has revolutionised the field by merging ancient wisdom with modern business innovations. His household brand, “Herbalgy”, has made TCM more accessible while preserving and modernising its legacy, leaving a lasting impact on Hong Kong’s health and wellness industry.
Robert Wun: A groundbreaking fashion designer raised in Hong Kong, Robert Wun has gained international recognition for his futuristic and theatrical creations, characterised by exceptional craftsmanship. By challenging Western-centric fashion norms, Wun has strengthened Hong Kong’s presence on the global fashion stage, putting his home city on the map.
Lorenzo Antinori: Originally hailing from Italy, Lorenzo Antinori has become an influential figure in Hong Kong’s cocktail scene. His bar, Bar Leone, recently claimed the top spot on The World’s 50 Best Bars, setting a new benchmark for the industry. Antinori’s passion for flavour and innovation has played a significant role in transforming Hong Kong into a key destination for world-class cocktail culture, with its influence reverberating across Asia and beyond.
Doryun Chong: As the Artistic Director and Chief Curator of M+, Hong Kong’s leading contemporary art museum, Doryun Chong has been instrumental in elevating Asian contemporary art to the global stage. His visionary leadership has not only enriched Hong Kong’s art ecosystem but has also connected the city’s vibrant art scene with the world.
Man Lim Chung: A master of visual storytelling, Man Lim Chung is one of Hong Kong’s most acclaimed art and image directors. His meticulous attention to detail and artistic vision have brought countless iconic films to life, establishing him as a cornerstone of Hong Kong cinema.
Visit GQ Hong Kong’s website and follow our social media platforms for exclusive in-depth interviews with these ten “Local Heroes”, as well as live on-the-ground coverage of this year’s MOTY celebration!
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