More than a Second Home: Review of Mark O’Neill’s "Europeans in Hong Kong"

By Tony Huang

Europeans in Hong Kong, by Mark O'Neill (Earnshaw Books, March 2025)

Mark O’Neill’s Europeans in Hong Kong, set to be published on March 25, 2025, offers a captivating and nuanced exploration of the often-overlooked contributions made by various European communities to the fabric of Hong Kong’s history. While mainstream narratives frequently spotlight the influence of the Chinese population under British colonial rule, O’Neill skillfully flips this script, illuminating the significant roles played by Germans, French, Italians, Spanish, and Portuguese in shaping the city’s identity as a global crossroads.

One of the most striking aspects of O’Neill’s work is his insightful historical context, particularly regarding the aftermath of 1949, when Hong Kong emerged as a sanctuary for Europeans who sought to remain connected to the Chinese mainland. Through vivid storytelling, he illustrates how these diverse communities not only settled in Hong Kong but also actively influenced its development. The author’s portrayal of Dr. Ferdinand Korn, a German chemist who founded the Tai Koo Sugar Refinery, serves as a compelling example of the innovative spirit that characterized these settlers. Korn’s enterprise was not merely a business venture; it was indicative of the entrepreneurial zeal that permeated the German community, which was second only to the British in influence before World War I.

O’Neill expertly weaves evocative imagery throughout the text, such as the poignant remnants of foreign influence found in the city’s cemeteries, suggesting that for many Europeans, Hong Kong was not just a temporary posting but a cherished home. The statement that “many became more fond of the city and its people than of their mother country” profoundly reflects the emotional and social investments made by individuals in a place that embraced them. This profound sense of belonging sheds light on the complexities of identity in a colonial landscape.

Moreover, the book confronts the turbulent historical tides that these communities faced, particularly during World War I and the Japanese occupation. O’Neill does not shy away from exploring the tensions and challenges inherent in these times. The war led to the seizure of German businesses, which created an environment of suspicion and discrimination that impacted community cohesion. The poignant correspondence between British Governor Sir Francis May and the German consul encapsulates the human toll of geopolitical conflicts, reminding readers of the fragility of peace and the interconnectedness of personal stories amid larger historical narratives.

As the narrative unfolds, O’Neill delves into the legacies of the diverse European communities in Hong Kong. From pioneering advancements in infrastructure—such as the significant role played by French and German engineering firms in building iconic structures—to the culinary contributions that enrich the city’s vibrant dining scene, the author paints a multifaceted portrait of cultural exchange. The impact of European chefs, who seamlessly blend European culinary artistry with Asian influences, exemplifies how these cultural interactions created a gastronomic dialogue that has come to define Hong Kong’s culinary identity.

Europeans in Hong Kong is an enlightening and meticulously researched work that broadens our understanding of the city’s rich and diverse history. O’Neill’s engaging storytelling and the intricate interweaving of individual and collective narratives serve as a reminder that Hong Kong’s identity is not just the product of one culture but a confluence of many. This book is a must-read for anyone eager to appreciate the complexity of Hong Kong’s past and the profound influences that continue to shape its present and future.

Tony Huang

Tony Huang is the founder and editor-in-chief of The Hong Kong Review. He is also the founder of Metacircle Fellowship, Metacircle (Hong Kong) Culture and Education Co., Ltd. and Metaeducation. He works as a guest-editor for SmokeLong Quarterly. His poems and translations have appeared in Mad Swirl, The Hong Kong Review, The Best Small Fictions Anthology Selections 2020, Tianjin Daily, Binhai Times, SmokeLong Quarterly, Nankai Journal, Large Ocean Poetry Quarterly, Yangcheng Evening News and other places.

Copy editor: Nancy He