Celebrating a Literary Legend: Jin Yong’s Centennial Memorial Unveiled in Hong Kong

2024 marks a significant milestone in the literary world as it commemorates the centenary of Jin Yong (Dr. Louis Cha), an iconic figure in Chinese literature whose prolific works have captivated readers for generations. Today, on the sixth day of the second lunar month, coinciding with Jin Yong’s birthday, “A Path to Glory – Jin Yong’s Centennial Memorial” officially opens its doors at Edinburgh Place in Central, Hong Kong. Supported by POTTINGER 22, this commemorative event heralds a series of public art exhibitions spanning cultural, artistic, and educational domains, echoing Jin Yong’s enduring legacy.

This unprecedented tribute, sanctioned by Jin Yong’s family, signifies Hong Kong’s homage to its literary luminary. The memorial aims not only to honor Jin Yong’s spirit but also to attract visitors from Mainland China and beyond, inviting them to partake in celebrating the immortal legacy of this literary giant.

The grand opening ceremony witnessed the presence of over 300 guests, including distinguished figures such as Hon. John KC Lee, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, and Mr. Michael Wong Wai-lun, Deputy Financial Secretary of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. Notably, a bronze statue of Dr. Louis Cha was unveiled, graciously donated to the Hong Kong SAR Government by Jin Yong’s family.

Jin Yong’s profound influence is evident in his extensive literary repertoire, comprising 15 martial arts novels and over 1,400 characters. The memorial’s theme, “A Path to Glory,” draws inspiration from Jin Yong’s own words, encapsulating the ethos of his characters and their quest for honor and justice.

The centerpiece of the exhibition is a collection of 36 meticulously crafted sculptures of Jin Yong’s iconic characters, weighing over 15,000 kilograms, generously created by renowned sculptor Mr. Ren Zhe over four years. These sculptures, along with immersive audio-visual installations, offer visitors a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Jin Yong’s martial arts universe.

The exhibition at Edinburgh Place, titled “A Path to Glory – Jin Yong’s Centennial Memorial • The World of Wuxia,” runs from March 15th to July 2nd, 2024, and admission is free. Visitors can immerse themselves in the world of Jin Yong’s characters, interact with augmented reality technology, and relive memorable scenes from his novels.

Moreover, the Hong Kong Heritage Museum in Sha Tin hosts a parallel exhibition, “A Path to Glory – Jin Yong’s Centennial Memorial, Sculpted by Ren Zhe,” from March 16th to October 7th, 2024, showcasing 22 sculptures of Jin Yong’s beloved characters.

Beyond the exhibitions, a city-wide campaign aims to evoke collective memories, fostering cultural exchanges and promoting Jin Yong’s literary heritage globally. Future plans include itinerant exhibitions to engage audiences across the Greater Bay Area, Mainland China, and international markets, reinforcing Jin Yong’s enduring legacy as a cultural ambassador.

With diverse activities ranging from fashion shows to museum lectures, “A Path to Glory – Jin Yong’s Centennial Memorial” promises to be a beacon of cultural enrichment, uniting communities and fostering appreciation for Chinese literary classics worldwide.