Hong Kong security chief Chris Tang stars in Douyin video, draws 171,000 likes in 2 days

In short parody video, Tang gives mascot bear ‘extraordinary task’ of setting up Security Bureau’s account on social media platform

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A promotional still of the Security Bureau’s short movie on social media platform Douyin. Photo: Facebook

Published: 7:32pm, 24 Jun 2024Updated: 3:04pm, 25 Jun 2024

A serious-looking security minister strides the halls of the Hong Kong government’s headquarters and assigns an “extraordinary mission” to an improbably furry colleague – a bear clad in a blue windbreaker adorned with the city’s emblem.

Receiving a mobile phone from minister Chris Tang Ping-keung, the bear – the Security Bureau’s mascot – learns his mission is to set up an official account on Douyin, mainland China’s most downloaded video-sharing platform, according to a short film released on Monday.

Tang and two of his aides – undersecretary Michael Cheuk Hau-yip and Permanent Secretary for Security Patrick Li Pak-chuen – showcased their acting skills in the one-minute video titled “Battle of Douyin” on the popular platform known for its comedic content.

The Douyin account, under the Chinese name of Hong Kong Security Bureau, quickly attracted more than 127,000 fans and 262,000 likes between its official launch and 2pm on Tuesday. The video drew about 171,000 likes over the same period.

Chris Tang is flanked by two aides – deputy secretary Michael Cheuk (left) and Permanent Secretary for Security Patrick Li – in the Security Bureau’s short film on Douyin. Photo: Facebook

In the parody video, Tang tells his aides: “Use extraordinary methods in extraordinary times.”