DORAEMON Exhibition Sets Record-Breaking Attendance as Hong Kong Reinforces Cultural Hub Status

The '100% DORAEMON & FRIENDS' exhibition in Hong Kong's K11 cultural district has drawn an unprecedented crowd. Featuring large-scale Doraemon sculptures, the event highlights Hong Kong's ambition to become a global cultural hub. The exhibition underpins the city's strategy to boost tourism and invigorate the local economy.

The '100% DORAEMON & FRIENDS' exhibition opened today at Tsim Sha Tsui's K11 art and cultural district, attracting record-breaking crowds. The event, centered around the beloved 1969 manga character Doraemon, underscores Hong Kong's rising status as a cultural hub.

Held at the Avenue of Stars, the exhibition drew massive visitor influx to Tsim Sha Tsui promenade. It kicked off with a 'blue' carpet at the Avenue, leading to large-scale Doraemon sculptures placed indoors and outdoors. According to a K11 spokesperson, footfall marked a notable increase. A key attraction was a 12-meter inflatable Doraemon, the world's tallest, highlighting Hong Kong's commitment to hosting grand cultural events.

This event is part of Hong Kong's broader strategy to capitalize on the 'Mega Events Economy.' Since 2022, the city has aimed to establish itself as a hub for major cultural gatherings. Government officials emphasize that such events are crucial for boosting tourism and invigorating the local economy. High-profile events like Art Basel Hong Kong confirm the city's expanding cultural influence. Strategic mega events leveraging popular culture aim not only to draw tourists but also stimulate local spending, benefiting sectors from retail to hospitality.

Adrian Cheng, Founder of K11, remarked, 'This exhibition exemplifies the substantial economic impact that cultural IP can bring to Hong Kong.' Janet, a visitor from the Philippines, said, 'I knew I had to come to Hong Kong when I first heard about the exhibition. I'm ready to spend HK$15,000 on merchandise and other Doraemon experiences.'

Merchandise sales at the promenade are booming, as are Doraemon-themed set menus in nearby restaurants. Berfa Chow, COO of LUBUDS F&B Group Ltd, noted a 30-40% revenue increase during the event.

Hotel stays have also surged. Casper Tsui, Executive Director of the Federation of Hong Kong Hotel Owners, expects hotel occupancy rates to reach 80-90% during the event, coinciding with other large-scale exhibitions. As Hong Kong continues to host innovative, large-scale cultural events, it solidifies its reputation as a premier destination for global cultural exchange.

(With inputs from agencies.)