Pauline Yeung 楊寶蓮 ポーリーン∙ヤン 양보련

In this study, we focus on non-ethnic Chinese diaspora families in business and entrepreneurship in Hong Kong and argue that the city is not only a stepping stone to the world but also a place where these families have taken root. Drawing on the deeply layered Chinese concept of roots, where the Chinese word 根 (gēn) conveys ideas of belonging, identity, and permanence, we apply six distinct but interrelated Chinese idioms containing the term to present a compelling and underexplored narrative on these families, applying ideas that have historically been used in academic research to describe the experience of overseas Chinese communities.

By illustrating how non-ethnic Chinese diaspora families retain or develop deep-rooted connections both to their ancestral heritage as well as to their new homes, we illuminate the varying degrees of connection and commitment these families have made to Hong Kong, examining their long-term influence. At a time when Hong Kong is redefining its global position and continuing to brand itself as "Asia’s World City”, it is more critical than ever to understand the archetypes and roles of these families, such that we gain a deeper appreciation of how Hong Kong continues to evolve as a centre of commerce, culture, and cross-border migration.