Kwong Yuen

Journey back to 1867. Kwong Fat Yuen Hong first opened its doors in Hong Kong. This wasn’t just any shop. It was the start of a leather legacy. The Yeung family, the driving force behind Kwong Fat Yuen Hong, would become leather royalty. They earned the title “King of Leather” in the early 20th century. Kwong Fat Yuen Hong expanded rapidly under the second generation. The Yeung brothers, sons of the founder Yeung Tai-koon, took the business to new heights. They established branches and factories throughout China and Asia. From Hong Kong and Canton to Shanghai and Tientsin, even reaching Bangkok, Singapore, and Phnom Penh. Kwong Fat Yuen Hong wasn’t just a business. It was a source of pride for Lo Village in Nanhai. Many villagers joined the leather trade thanks to the Yeung family’s success. The village became synonymous with quality leather goods. One of the brothers, Yeung Lee-cho, remained in Nanhai. He built two impressive four-story mansions. One, known as “Gweilauchong” for its Western design, still stands today. It’s a testament to the family’s prosperity. The Yeung family’s generosity extended beyond business. When floods devastated Nanhai in 1915, Yeung Chun-cho led relief efforts. He provided food and established Koon Lai Hospital offering free medical care. He also funded infrastructure projects to protect the village from future floods. The third generation continued the family’s success. Yeung Chung-cheuk, grandson of the founder, took over the family business. He also became a prominent figure in Tientsin’s Cantonese community. He even developed a street named after his family, Yeung Fook Yam Road, which became a hub for financial institutions. The family’s story also includes a touch of glamour. Yang Nai-mei, Chung-cheuk’s sister, was a celebrated silent film actress. Her fame shone brightly in the 1920s. Another key figure was Yeung Ngok-fai, who led Kwong Fat Yuen Hong in Hong Kong from the 1930s. The company traded in various goods, from leather and dyes to redwood and tea. Their “Double Sword” leather and “Lion” brand twine were renowned for quality. Ngok-fai was a respected community leader. He was involved with the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals and led trade associations. The fourth generation diversified further. Yeung Cho-yee, Ngok-fai’s son, invented a paper recycling machine after studying in Australia and the US. The family also ventured into tropical fish, exporting them worldwide. Kwong Fat Yuen Hong, spanning over 150 years, stands as a testament to entrepreneurial spirit, family legacy, and community contribution.