Overview of Hong Kong

Profile

Hong Kong is a world-leading high-density city where 7.4 million people live in approximately 1,100 km², developed around the deep natural harbor of Victoria Harbour. Under "One Country, Two Systems" maintaining capitalism and a legal system different from mainland China, it has become a premier Asian business hub leveraging advanced financial services, low taxes, and free trade. Public transport utilization exceeds 90%, life expectancy ranks among world's highest for both genders. Symbolized by the Bauhinia flower, it has formed a unique lifestyle blending Cantonese and Western cultures.

Official name: Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China
Common name: Hong Kong
Numeric code: 344
Alpha-3 code: HKG
Alpha-2 code: HK
Population: Approximately 7.4 million (2023)
Population density: Approximately 6,800
Primary languages: Cantonese, English, Mandarin Chinese
Major religions: Buddhism, Taoism, Christianity
National anthem: March of the Volunteers
Calling code: +852
Internet TLD: .hk

History

Became British territory in the 19th century from Qing China, underwent over 150 years of colonial rule before returning to China in 1997.

Hong Kong Island became British territory under the 1842 Treaty of Nanking, later expanded with Kowloon Peninsula and New Territories establishing British rule. After Japanese occupation during WWII, post-war saw rapid industrialization and financialization as one of Asia's Four Tigers. The 1984 Sino-British Joint Declaration promised 1997 handover and 50 years of high autonomy; post-handover maintains unique legal and economic systems as a Special Administrative Region while strengthening ties with mainland China.

Geography & climate

Mountains occupy over 60%, with complexly interlocking bays and islands. Highest peak is Tai Mo Shan (958 m).

Subtropical humid climate (warm humid type, summer rain)

Area: Asia / 1104 km²
Capital: Hong Kong (Central)
Largest city: Hong Kong
Coastal status: Yes
Bordering countries: People's Republic of China (Guangdong Province)

Natural resources

Deep natural harbor, Granite, Wind power (off Lantau), Mangrove wetlands, Geothermal springs, Coral reefs, Pearl River Delta estuary, Columnar joints, Fishing resources, Sea salt traditional production sites

Politics

Government: Semi-autonomous system and One Country, Two Systems special administrative region with Chief Executive as head

Economy

Currency: Hong Kong Dollar (HKD)

GDP (nominal): 368 billion USD (2023)

GDP (PPP): 603 billion USD (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Cantonese, English, Mandarin Chinese

Time zone: Hong Kong Time

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Cantonese Han Chinese, Hakka, Teochew, White/European, Filipino, Indian, Pakistani, Indonesian, Nepali

Life expectancy

85.3

Literacy rate

95.0

National sports

Horse racing, Football, Badminton, Basketball, Dragon boat, Table tennis