Famous for his martial arts prowess and charitable spirit, Wong Fei-hung has been widely respected as a legendary folk hero for over a century. His "Hung Ga" school of kungfu earned him deep reverence from both friends and foes, inspiring admiration and attracting a global following of fans and students. Unknown to many, Wong was also highly knowledgeable in traditional Chinese medicine.
During the dark and turbulent years following the Opium Wars, his clinic – Poh Chi Lam in Guangzhou, China – provided free treatment and medicine to thousands of poor people from near and far. Wong's life has been popularised in books and films for more than a century. The actor most famously associated with the role of Wong is martial artist Kwan Tak-hing, who portrayed him in 77 films over 40 years, leaving an indelible mark on cinematic history.
Like Wong, Kwan exemplified admirable qualities such as justice, social conscience, and moral courage. In his films, Kwan always fought for the poor, the oppressed, and the underdogs of society. Often, he risked his life to confront corrupt officials and powerful men.
Born in Guangzhou in 1905, Kwan lost his father at a young age and had to become a cowherd early in life. Financial hardship forced him to leave home at 13 to work as a waiter in a restaurant in Singapore. He later joined a Cantonese opera troupe where he honed his acting skills and performed acrobatic lion dances.
A dedicated martial arts student, Kwan also trained extensively un.