Hong Kongers in Taiwan Celebrate a Bittersweet Lunar New Year Away From Home
Hong Kong expats in Taiwan gathered at a market in Taipei ahead of the Lunar New Year, where the food and sounds, as well as symbols of the Hong Kong democracy movement, brought back memories of home.
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Hong Kongers in Taiwan Find Comfort in Lunar New Year Market
Hundreds of Hong Kongers in Taiwan gathered at a special Lunar New Year market, where the aroma of egg waffles and the sounds of Cantopop created an atmosphere reminiscent of home. The market offered a brief escape for those who left their city behind amid political upheaval, providing a space for nostalgia and connection.
“Here, you can speak Cantonese,” said a visitor at the market. “It really has a [Hong Kong] atmosphere. Everyone understands each other.”
Vendors brought tastes of Hong Kong to Taiwan, featuring traditional dishes. “We have some special dishes, like this Hong Kong-style soup,” said one vendor. “We use seafood to cook up some soup, which is typically eaten during Lunar New Year.”
The market, however, also evoked bittersweet memories. Since 2019, many Hong Kongers have relocated to Taiwan after clashes between pro-democracy protesters and police, followed by Beijing’s increasing control over the city. The imposition of the National Security Law in 2020 has made it risky for many to stay in Hong Kong, prompting an exodus of those longing for a democratic future.
“I don’t have any family here,” said one attendee. “So I don’t really know anything about celebrating Lunar New Year here. As long as I’m still living, that’s good enough.” Despite the challenges, she found solace in the ability to buy books banned in Hong Kong and reflect on symbols of resistance. “Over there is a Lennon Wall. It brings back memories of when we used to have Lennon Walls in Hong Kong.”
The Lennon Walls, which first appeared during the 2014 Umbrella Movement, served as public spaces for messages advocating for freedom and democracy. They re-emerged during the 2019 anti-extradition protests but were outlawed under the National Security Law.
Jason Chan, event manager for the market and organizer at Wooo Art and Cultural Space, expressed gratitude for the sense of community the event fostered. “I’m really grateful for all the Hong Kongers coming here,” he said. “We’re trying to let Hong Kong people know we have a base here to meet each other safely and share emotions.”
For many, the market was a reminder of the resilience and solidarity of the Hong Kong diaspora in Taiwan. While political repression looms over their home, the event allowed them to reminisce, celebrate and support one another.
The market may not replace the traditions left behind, but it provided a moment of comfort for those rebuilding their lives away from home—a testament to the enduring spirit of the Hong Kong community abroad.
