Hong Kong school ordered to explain after principal filmed swearing at Singapore security guards

Hong Kong education authorities have demanded an explanation from a secondary school after a viral video appeared to show its principal swearing at security guards during a study trip in Singapore.

The footage, widely circulated on social media platforms including Threads on 23 May, allegedly showed Dr Lee Cheuk-hing, principal of San Wui Commercial Society Secondary School in Tuen Mun, arguing with two non-ethnic Chinese female security guards over a hired coach parking issue.

In the video, Dr Lee was heard shouting “you shut up” in English before allegedly using Cantonese obscenities directed at the guards.

A female staff member was seen attempting to pull him away from the confrontation but appeared unsuccessful.

The clip rapidly spread online and prompted widespread criticism from internet users in Hong Kong.

Education Bureau intervenes

According to local media outlet HK01, Hong Kong’s Education Bureau said on 24 May that it was “highly concerned” about the incident and had immediately contacted the school and its sponsoring body.

The bureau said teachers and principals were role models for students and that their conduct, values and behaviour carried significant influence.

A bureau spokeswoman said the school had been instructed to “seriously follow up” on the matter and submit a detailed written report explaining the circumstances surrounding the incident.

“The school has activated its crisis management team to investigate the matter thoroughly,” the spokeswoman said.

Authorities added that they would remain in close contact with the school and provide appropriate advice and support during the investigation.

The bureau also referred to its Code of Professional Conduct for Teachers, which states educators are expected to maintain strict personal and professional standards to safeguard student welfare, educational quality and public trust in the profession.

Officials said that if a teacher was confirmed to have breached professional conduct requirements, the bureau could review the individual’s teaching registration and take action depending on the seriousness of the case.

School leadership under scrutiny

The controversy has triggered broader online scrutiny of the school and its management practices.

Numerous anonymous posts and submissions circulated alongside the viral footage, raising allegations about staff turnover, school administration and the learning environment.

Several online commentators claimed a significant number of experienced teachers had left the school in recent years. Others questioned the qualifications and experience levels of some current staff members.

Some social media users also urged parents and prospective students to conduct their own research before selecting schools.

An online profile of Dr Lee indicated that he holds a doctorate in education from the University of Hong Kong.

The school has not publicly issued a detailed response regarding the incident at the time of reporting.

The Singapore study trip appeared to be part of a broader educational exchange programme involving students from the school.