In a shocking turn of events, Leung Chai-yan, the second daughter of former Hong Kong Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying, was found dead in a service apartment in Kennedy Town on the evening of April 8, 2025. She was just 33 years old. Emergency services confirmed her death at the scene, and police have stated that there is no suspicion of foul play, with the cause of death pending an autopsy.
Leung Chun-ying, who is also the current Vice Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, arrived at the scene early on April 9 to understand the situation better. In a heartfelt post on social media, he expressed his grief, stating, "Chai-yan left very suddenly, without leaving any words, just lying peacefully in bed. A few days ago, she actively went to get a flu shot." His words reflect the unexpected nature of her passing, which has left family and friends in shock.
Born on September 11, 1991, Leung Chai-yan was the second child of Leung Chun-ying and his wife, Regina Tong Ching-儀. She had two siblings: an elder brother, Leung Chuen-yan, and a younger sister, Leung Siu-yan. Chai-yan was known for her aspirations to enter the entertainment industry, having previously studied law at the London School of Economics (LSE). However, she dropped out in June 2013 and pursued a career in modeling.
Chai-yan's life had been marked by public scrutiny, particularly due to her outspoken nature and social media presence. In March 2015, she made headlines when she claimed on Facebook that she had been abused by her mother, leading to a public response from her father, who noted that she had health issues and was receiving professional care.
Her social media accounts were often filled with personal reflections, and her last Instagram post on March 6, 2025, raised concerns among her followers. She wrote, "Really really really really sick. And I'm rarely sick. Will revert back in 3-5 business days. Apologies." This post, coupled with her previous expressions of distress, has led many to speculate about her mental health struggles.
Chai-yan's tumultuous relationship with her family was publicly highlighted during a Halloween incident in 2015, when she dressed as a ghost and was involved in a verbal altercation with a taxi driver in Central. Her mother, Regina, arrived to diffuse the situation but was reportedly slapped by Chai-yan, an event that garnered significant media attention.
In June 2014, Chai-yan posted what appeared to be self-harm images on social media, which prompted her mother to call for understanding from the media regarding her daughter's struggles. Regina criticized a lecturer's comments about Chai-yan as "ignorant, cold-blooded, and mean," highlighting the family's challenges in dealing with her public persona and mental health issues.
Despite the controversies surrounding her, Chai-yan remained a figure of interest in Hong Kong society. Her unique style and candidness made her a topic of discussion among the public and media alike. She was known for her bold statements, including a controversial remark in which she claimed that her clothes and shoes were purchased with taxpayers' money. These comments often sparked debates about privilege and responsibility in the context of her family's political background.
The news of her passing has prompted an outpouring of condolences and tributes on social media, with many followers expressing their sorrow and sharing memories of her. The public reaction underscores the complex nature of her life, where personal struggles were often played out in the public eye.
As investigations continue, the family has requested privacy during this difficult time. Leung Chun-ying expressed gratitude for the support and understanding from friends and the public, emphasizing the challenges they face as they navigate this tragic loss.
Leung Chai-yan's life, though marked by both ambition and turmoil, serves as a poignant reminder of the pressures faced by individuals in the spotlight, especially those dealing with mental health issues. Her story resonates with many who have experienced similar struggles, highlighting the need for compassion and understanding in society.
The circumstances surrounding her untimely death raise important questions about mental health awareness and the support systems available to those in distress. As the community reflects on her life, it is hoped that her passing will inspire conversations about the importance of mental health care and the need for open dialogue about personal struggles.
In a world where public figures are often scrutinized, Leung Chai-yan's story is a tragic reminder that behind the headlines, there are real people facing real challenges. The legacy she leaves behind may encourage others to seek help and speak out about their own experiences, fostering a more supportive environment for all.
