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Helen So
Yolanda Lam
Helen SoandYolanda Lam

Opinion | Why Hong Kong needs a plan to develop culture and sports together

  • As breakdancing and gaming gain recognition as sports, the line between culture and sports is blurring
  • Other economies are overseeing the two sectors together and investing in immersive entertainment. But what is Hong Kong’s vision?

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Hong Kong esports teams play an exhibition game at Cyberport’s esports arena in July 2019. Photo: Handout
Helen SoandYolanda Lam
Is Hong Kong about to gain a new bureau that will oversee cultural, tourism and even sporting matters? That’s what people are talking about after the chief executive spoke last month of the possibility of a major government restructuring, including the establishment of a new bureau for culture.
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Under the current administration, both culture and sports fall within the ambit of the Home Affairs Bureau. However, they are apparently understood to be separate from each other, not only by policymakers but also by the sectors themselves; synergies are scarce, if indeed there are any.

This therefore begs the question: is it realistic to hope for better-coordinated development synergies between culture and sports? It seems timely to consider the two sectors’ prospects.

To judge by recent developments, the boundaries between culture and sports are becoming increasingly blurred. As a most striking example, breakdancing will make its debut as an Olympic sport at Paris 2024.

The dance form, which emerged decades ago, blends artistry and athleticism and has been gaining international recognition as a sport. At Paris 2024, competitors are likely to be assessed based on their technical skill and creativity.

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Chinese breakdancers become Olympic hopefuls as sport is considered for Paris 2024 Games

Chinese breakdancers become Olympic hopefuls as sport is considered for Paris 2024 Games

Breakdancing is not unlike events such as figure skating, synchronised swimming and rhythmic gymnastics, which all combine performance at a high aesthetic level with athletic agility at a competitive level.

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