Hong Kong Safety: Homosexuality

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Homosexuality was decriminalized in 1991, making it the only former British colonial jurisdictions in Asia to have done so. The age of consent between two males is 16, while there is not law concerning the age of consent between two females. Same sex marriage performed overseas is not recognized in Hong Kong and there's no anti-discrimination law on the ground of sexual orientations. Holding hands, kissing or showing close affection in the public, while not often seen, are generally tolerated; although it may attract curious stares. Gay bashing though is almost unheard of. There's a higher concentration of GLBT populations in the Central, Admiralty and Wanchai areas. A number of Hong Kong's celebrities are widely understood to be gay, but very rarely do they publicly come out. Overall, there is more tolerance for homosexuality in Hong Kong than in most of other Asian cities.

The GLBT community in Hong Kong is gaining more ground now more than ever. 2009 was an active year for the community, which saw events after events being lead by different people and groups, pushing forward its visibility and tolerance among the general public.

The Hong Kong Lesbian and Gay Film Festival is one of the longest running GLBT events in Hong Kong, and indeed in Asia. Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2009, it brings to Hong Kong various international and regional GLBT films. The festival is usually held in November.

Hong Kong held its second Gay Pride ever on 1 Nov 2009, attracting over 1,800 people, gay and straight, to the event. There were participants coming in from China, Taiwan, Malaysia and even Australia and the United States. It is held usually at the end of the year (late November-early December).

For those who like to party in the sea in your sexy speedos (and bikinis), try to time your visit during Flotilla. Flotilla started almost as a gay pride in the sea in 2006, where junk boat party loving Hongkongers rent out junk boats in groups and throw themselves a fabulous party in the sea. 2008 saw over 20 boats anchored in the same bay, there were even boats targeted particularly for lesbians and bears. Flotilla 2006-2008 were held in May, while the one in 2009 was moved to October.

Hong Kong Disneyland also saw its first Gay Day in December 2009. Participants were asked to wear red and were given schedule on the particular showing for the event. This event, though, was not organised by Disneyland.

• Hong Kong Lesbian and Gay Film Festival
• Gay Pride