HK Actor Lawrence Ng Says He’s “Finally Chinese” After Contributing To China’s Social Security Fund For 2 Years

Hongkong actor Lawrence Ng, 58, who has worked mostly in China for the past 16 years, recently appeared on Chinese talk show An One-Day Appointment with Lu Yu, to share more about his life in the Mainland.

“I used to feel that I wasn’t a real Chinese citizen, the biggest feeling that the 25th anniversary of Hongkong’s return to China has given me is that I’m finally a Chinese citizen,” Lawrence said.

He then went on to share that he’s contributed to China’s social security fund for the past two years now. Contribution to the fund is mandatory for Chinese employees and their employers as well as foreigners employed in China.

“[I do so] through an accountant, so what happens is that my earnings will first go through the [accounting] company, and they’ll help me buy my social security insurance,” Lawrence shared.

Like many other Hongkong celebs from the '90s working in China now, Lawrence is known to make a quick buck by making appearances at mall events and dinner parties.

He didn’t shy away when asked about these gigs, some of which are far from glamorous.

Lawrence said he’s not picky when it comes to choosing which event to appear in as he does not see himself as someone who’s overtly conscious of his celeb status.

“About three to four years ago, there was — for example — lots of companies holding their annual dinner-and-dance, and they would invite us to join as guests. I remember there was one year when I went to over 20 events in one month alone. As long as it’s not for an investment or financial company, I would attend [the event],” he said.

Sadly, as well-known as he is for his acting abilities, Lawrence isn’t exactly receiving offers for acting projects.

“Even if I say I want to act, there’s not a lot of projects to do right now. I’m not popular either. If I’m very popular, then it might be a bit better,” he said.

Lawrence also admitted that his day in the sun is long over.

“For example, when I appeared in [1998 TVB drama] Healing Hands, and [2001 TVB drama] The Heavenly Sword And Dragon Saber, you could say those were my glory days. But it might’ve been 'cos China wasn't fully opened to outsiders back then, so I could only remain in Hongkong. In any case, returning to China after 1997, and with the relaxation of the Chinese markets, [China’s showbiz industry] may not have been as well known as Hongkong’s, but the money earned is definitely way more than before,” he said.

As for the reason he moved to China, Lawrence said he’s always liked the Mainland.

“Ever since I came over to China eight years ago, I’ve felt that this place is my country. I’ve always gotten scolded in England and other countries, and looked down upon 'cos I’m Chinese and whatnot. What kind of situation was that! Now, isn’t it great to be a citizen of China. And because I’ve brought over my Hongkonger way of thinking, coming over to the Mainland feels advantageous,” he said.

Photos: Lawrence Ng/Weibo, 福建海博TV/Weibo