RSVP: Against the Ashes of Time: Revisiting the Historical Meaning of the Chinese War of Resistance in HKU

This scholarly event, "Against the Ashes of Time: Revisiting the Historical Meaning of the Chinese War of Resistance," convened at the University of Hong Kong, offers an exploration of the complex historical significance and enduring legacy of the Chinese War of Resistance. The forum articulates the necessity of sustained historical inquiry as a means to understand the roots and repercussions of conflict. The discussion underscores the critical importance of peace—not only as a sociopolitical ideal but as a historically contingent achievement—and advocates for rigorous historical education to ensure the transmission of hard-won lessons to future generations. In emphasizing these perspectives, the event aims to foster an informed public discourse, prompting reflection on the moral and ethical imperatives derived from past suffering, and reinforcing the shared responsibility to prevent the recurrence of similar tragedies.

Dr. Michael Y. L. Luk is recognized for his substantial academic and professional contributions to the study of Chinese history, holding the position of Honorary Associate Professor in the Department of History and the School of Chinese at the University of Hong Kong. He also serves as Honorary Programme Director for training projects in the HKU Mainland Affairs Office and leads as Convenor of the Institute for Greater China Studies, where he has played a pivotal role in advancing interdisciplinary historical research and fostering scholarly exchange. Dr. Luk’s expertise and long-standing dedication to historical inquiry equip him to provide nuanced perspectives on the Chinese War of Resistance, making his participation integral to this event’s intellectual rigor and depth.

Seminar Brief -

Date: 4 October 2025

Time: 14:30 - 16:30

Venue: MB 237, Main Building, The University of Hong Kong

Speaker: Dr. Michael Y. L. Luk & Ms. Jessica Fung (Moderator)

Language: Catonese (with English)

This event is proudly partnered with the Hong Kong University Graduates Association, partnered with Joint Publishing Cultural Fund, and the APAC Focus Program of IGCS, whose collaboration enriches the scope and outreach of the forum. Additional support is provided by the Hong Kong University Graduates Association Education Foundation, , Hong Kong Scholarship for Excellence Scheme Scholars Association (HKSESSA), Tsinghua Law Association (Hong Kong) Limited, Tsinghua Alumni Hong Kong Association of Hong Kong, Basic Law Foundation and Leo Club of Ho Man Tin, whose ongoing commitment to education and public engagement reinforces the event’s intellectual integrity and social impact.