Hong Kong's Hidden Gems #3 -- Hong Kong News Expo

As Hong Kong is now fully re-opened to travellers, it is time to introduce yet another hidden gem in the city.  Hong Kong News Expo (HKNE) is located in a unique neighbourhood in Mid-Levels.  It is a multimedia exhibition that showcases the history, evolution and current state of Hong Kong's news media. The establishment features a wide range of interactive exhibits, historical artifacts, and multimedia presentations.  It is a great niche gem for those interested in the news industry and the role it plays in shaping the city. 
The exhibition is divided into several sections, each focusing on different aspects of Hong Kong's news media. For instance, one section is dedicated to the history of newspapers in Hong Kong, featuring how they have evolved over the years -- from the early days of colonial rule to the present day. Visitors can also learn about the development of radio and television news, as well as the rise of digital media and social media platforms. 
 
It is interesting to note that horse racing is such a big draw for the population, especially in the 1980's and 90's.  Numerous horse racing newspapers were regularly published, with detailed odds and expert opinions, to prepare die-hard punters for race days. Interspersed throughout the galleries, you can also find many newsworthy Hong Kong headlines, from the bubonic plague in the early 1900s, the Japanese occupation in the 1940s, SARS in 2003, and Covid-19 in recent years. 

In addition, HKNE also features a multimedia newsroom, where visitors can experience what it is like to be a journalist. The newsroom is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and technology, allowing visitors to try their hand at reporting, editing, and producing news stories.  Another highlight of the HKNE is the "News Literacy Zone," which aims to promote news literacy and critical thinking skills among visitors. The zone features interactive exhibits and workshops that teach visitors how to fact-check news stories and separate fact from fiction. Visitors can also learn about the different types of fake news and how to identify them.



The HKNE gallery is housed in a historic building in the Central district of Hong Kong Island.  The site was the one of various temporary residences of Sun Yat Sen, the father of modern China.  The neo-classical building was constructed in the early 1950s and was originally used as the headquarters of the British colonial government in Hong Kong.  Then it was repurposed as a market for dry and wet goods, before finally becoming what we see now enjoy in 2018.  You can still find remnants of its previous functions interspersed in the gallery.  

Overall, the Hong Kong News Expo is an excellent destination for anyone interested in the history and development of Hong Kong's news media.  It provides an informative and engaging experience that chornicles the city's rich media landscape while promoting news literacy and critical thinking skills.  It is certainly a great way to spend your time after a coffee break and before your shopping spree!


- PTS

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