Hong Kong leader promises to support influencers after IShowSpeed visit

John Lee pledges help after many local internet users say city wasted the opportunity to promote itself during YouTube star’s visit

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YouTube star IShowSpeed toured popular spots in Hong Kong, including Ocean Park and Kam Shan Country Park. Photo: Jelly Tse

Published: 2:38pm, 8 Apr 2025Updated: 8:10pm, 8 Apr 2025

Hong Kong will offer “any possible help” to social media influencers who want to promote the city through live streams, the chief executive has said after YouTube star IShowSpeed’s visit, which some saw as a missed opportunity to highlight signature local features.

John Lee Ka-chiu said on Tuesday that he paid close attention to IShowSpeed’s visit, adding that authorities had proposed to help the 20-year-old live stream across the city, but he did not take up the offer. IShowSpeed, who visited the city on Friday, has more than 38.4 million followers on YouTube.

“The Tourism Board contacted his team, telling them that it could arrange any assistance they need. But his team did not request help,” Lee said before his weekly meeting with the key decision-making Executive Council.

“But I must stress that the administration will provide any possible help to IShowSpeed or any other influencers who come to Hong Kong to promote it via live streams in the future.”

Chief Executive John Lee has said Hong Kong hopes to create a hospitable atmosphere and provide those visiting with a great experience. Photo: Sun Yeung

Lee added that he hoped Hongkongers would promote their home and allow people from all over the world to recognise its advantages and qualities.

“We hope to create a hospitable atmosphere and provide those visiting Hong Kong with a great experience. I hope all Hongkongers, no matter what position they hold, will promote the city whenever they have the opportunity,” he said.