Hong Kong Marks First 'National Security Education Day', Chooses Chinese-Style March Over British-Style

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Hyunjin] On the 15th, Hong Kong held various commemorative events emphasizing One Country, Two Systems and national security at schools and public institutions to mark the first "National Security Education Day." National Security Education Day was established following the implementation of the Hong Kong National Security Law (Hong Kong Security Law) on June 30 last year.

According to Hong Kong media including the public broadcaster RTHK, on this day, public schools across Hong Kong raised the Chinese national flag and sang the Chinese national anthem, followed by various activities emphasizing the protection of national security. Luo Huining, Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in Hong Kong, said at the National Security Education Day ceremony, "We will teach a lesson to foreign forces trying to take Hong Kong hostage."

Hong Kong police showcased a march at the police academy where officers walked in the Chinese People's Liberation Army style goose step, lifting their legs high without bending their knees. Previously, they practiced the British-style drill, raising their knees to a 90-degree angle, but the marching style has now changed.

RTHK reported, "This is the first time Hong Kong police have presented a Chinese-style march to the public instead of the British-style march," adding, "Authorities explained that this was to showcase the police's 'nationalism' to the public and to strengthen awareness of national security."

Meanwhile, the pro-democracy camp held protests opposing National Security Education Day.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.