Wallace Chung

1.1. Birth and Family

Wallace Chung Hon-leung was born on November 30, 1974, in British Hong Kong. He is of Hakka ethnicity, a Han Chinese subgroup. His family consists of his parents, two older sisters, and a younger sister.

1.2. Education

In 1992, Chung was admitted to the TVB dance training school in Hong Kong, where he was selected as a first-line dancer for the station. This early training provided him with a strong foundation in performance and stage presence. The same year, he was temporarily transferred to the acting department, marking his initial foray into acting.

2.1. Debut and Early Career (1993-1998)

Chung made his acting debut in 1993 in the TVB biographical television drama *The Chord to Victory*, where he portrayed a young Kenny Bee, a member of the band The Wynners. He also appeared in *Mind Our Own Business* and *Incredible Tuesday* in 1993. In 1994, he participated in *Conscience* and *Journey of Love* for TVB, showcasing his acting talent as the mentally challenged youth Cheung Ka-keung in the latter. During this period, he also hosted the entertainment program *K-100*. In 1995, he made a guest appearance in *Detective Investigation Files*.

In 1995, Chung was discovered by Taiwanese music producer Samuel Tai and signed a contract with Music Impact Entertainment Ltd., which was later acquired by BMG. In July of that year, he debuted as a singer with his first Mandarin solo album, *OREA*, in Taiwan. The title track "OREA" and "Is It Love or Harm" became his signature songs. The successful debut of *OREA*, particularly its dance performances, quickly propelled him to stardom, earning him the nickname "Little Sun" (小太阳_{Xiǎo Tàiyáng}^Chinese) in Taiwan. The eponymous title song rapidly rose to No. 1 on the charts, holding the top position for many weeks. In December 1995, he released his second album, *By Your Side* (在你身邊), which led to him being recognized as Taiwan's "Best Idol" for two consecutive years. His Asian fan club, "Little Sun Energy Club," rapidly grew to over 3,000 members.

In June 1996, he released his third Mandarin album, *Miracle* (奇蹟), which included a limited edition commemorative gold coin. In July, Chung made his film debut in Taiwan with *Hi Sir* (超級班長), playing the lead role and performing the theme song "Ai Bu Shi Shou" (愛不釋手) and the soundtrack song "Miracle." *Hi Sir* topped box office charts and became a major summer hit in Taiwan. In October, he officially entered the Hong Kong music industry with his first Cantonese album, *Present* (一千種不放心 / 禮物), featuring songs like "A Thousand Types of Unease" and "Gift."

In January 1997, Chung released his fourth Mandarin album, *Passionate* (親熱), alongside his first personal photobook, *Horseman's Turn*. He also filmed *Love Is Not a Game But a Joke* (飛一般愛情小說) in Hong Kong, his first film there after gaining fame in Taiwan. In May 1998, he released his fifth Mandarin album, *Do You Love Him?* (妳愛他嗎?). In February, he co-starred with Taiwanese singer Na Na Tang in the musical film *Another* (別戀), filmed in Shanghai. In June, he participated in the three-segment film *Bad Girl Trilogy* (惡女列傳), playing the lead in the third segment "Cat and Mouse" alongside Alyssa Chia. This film received multiple Golden Horse Awards nominations. In October 1998, Chung released his sixth Mandarin album, *Hello, How Are You?* (鍾情二次方). The title song "Subway" was nominated for Best Composition at the Golden Melody Awards. Chung also received praise for writing lyrics for several songs on the album, including "Really Like Me," "Us," and "I Really Want to Know." His contract with BMG concluded at the end of 1998.

2.2. Focus on Acting and Rising Popularity (1999-2014)

From 1999 onwards, Chung gradually shifted his career focus to acting, primarily in mainland China. In October of that year, he played his first television leading role as Chu Yun in the wuxia drama *Windstorm* (白手風雲), directed by Ju Jue Liang. This drama first aired on SET Metro in Taiwan on December 13, 2000.

In May 2000, BMG released Chung's new Mandarin single and compilation album, *Most Exciting* (最是精彩), which included two new songs, "Cinderella" and "I Say Very Little." In June 2000, he signed with Rock Records' agency department in Taiwan. In September, he starred as the male lead in the film *Forever Young* (今生有約). In October, he played the male lead in the Taiwanese drama *Sweetheart* (上錯樓梯睡錯床). In February 2001, Chung starred in the drama *Feng Chen Hu Die* (風塵舞蝶). In July, he had a guest role as A Song in episodes 21-22 of the pan-Asian hit drama *Meteor Garden*. In October, he filmed the drama *Qian Si Wan Lu* (千絲萬縷) in Shanghai, directed by Huang Yi Gong.

In 2002, Chung starred as Chiang Cheng-fei in the Taiwanese drama *Secretly in love with you* (偷偷愛上你) and performed its theme song "A Secret Crush is like a Bomb." In October, he filmed the wuxia drama *The Four Detective Guards* (四大名捕会京师), portraying Chaser. In April 2003, he guest-starred as Johnny in episodes 5-8 of the Taiwanese drama *Hi! Working Girl* (Hi！上班女郎). In September, he filmed the wuxia drama *Treacherous Waters* (逆水寒) in Yinchuan, adapting Wen Rui'an's novel, and gained significant recognition for his portrayal of the "stunningly talented" Gu Xizhao. In January 2004, Chung released his seventh Mandarin album, *Soul Man* (流向巴黎), which received positive reviews for its title track and songs like "Not So Gentle" and "A Secret Crush is like a Bomb." In March, he starred as Lu Yi in the historical drama *Mo Jie Zhi Long Zhu* (魔界之龙珠). In June, he played Yu Youhe in *The Midnight Sun* (午夜陽光).

In March 2006, Chung portrayed the famous Qing-dynasty poet Nalan Xingde in the historical drama *Secret History of Kangxi*, directed by You Xiaogang. In July, he starred as the Kangxi Emperor in Zhang Jizhong's adaptation of *Royal Tramp*. His performances in these two major Qing-dynasty roles earned him significant recognition. In June 2006, his personal studio, Hua Hua Cao Cao Music Studio, released his album *Fine Day* (風和日麗), with music videos filmed in London. In May 2007, Chung starred as Yu Qiyang in the drama *King of Shanghai* (上海王), earning a nomination for Most Popular Actor at the Shanghai Television Festival. In October, he filmed the digital film *Evening of Roses* (夜玫瑰) in Beijing, based on Cai Zhiheng's novel. In November, he starred as Mu Sheng in the drama *Rose Martial World* (玫瑰江湖). In March 2008, Chung starred as Latin dance champion Chu Sinan in the film *Duel for Love* (鬥愛). In July, he played the intelligent detective Zhong Lang in the CCTV6 film series *Huo Xian Zhui Xiong* (火線追兇). In March 2009, Chung starred as Liang Dongge in the war thriller drama *Undercover* (內線), directed by You Xiaogang. In October, he guest-starred as dancer Luo Peng in the comedy *Let's Dance* (不如跳舞), directed by Zhang Guoli. In November, he took on the role of Murong Feng in the highly anticipated republican romance drama *Too Late to Say Loving You*. This drama, which aired on Zhejiang TV in May 2011, achieved excellent ratings and gained a cult following, significantly increasing Chung's popularity in mainland China, especially among female audiences.

In June 2010, Chung starred as Qi Tianbai in the republican drama *No Choice* (別無選擇). In October, he filmed *Under the Bodhi Tree* (菩提樹下). On September 24, 2010, his studio released the Mandarin album *All Eyes On Me* (視覺動物), marking his return to music after six years. The album topped the charts upon its mainland China release in October, and Chung won the Best Male Stage Performance at the Beijing Pop Music Awards. In March 2011, he filmed the spy drama *Imminent Crisis* (一觸即發), playing dual roles as twin brothers Yang Muchu and Yang Muci, and also performed the opening theme song "Black." His performance in *Imminent Crisis* earned him the Audience's Favorite TV Drama Actor in the Hong Kong and Taiwan region at the 26th China TV Golden Eagle Award, making him the first actor from Hong Kong and Taiwan to win such a national television award. In June 2011, Chung starred as Fu Hongxue in *The Magic Blade* (天涯明月刀), adapted from Gu Long's novel. This drama, which premiered on Hunan TV in June 2012, significantly boosted the channel's ratings and earned Chung the Best Actor award at the 3rd LeTV awards. He was nominated again for the Golden Eagle Award the following year for this role. In August 2011, he released the single "One Day We Will Grow Old," which was named one of the Top 10 songs of the year and earned him another Best Male Stage Performance award. In October 2011, he held his first solo concert, "Wallace S-Party Concert," in Shanghai, with tickets selling out in 15 minutes. In December 2011, he joined the cast of Johnnie To's crime thriller *Drug War*, portraying police officer Guo Weijun. The film, released in April 2013, grossed over 100.00 M CNY. In December 2012, he held his third "Wallace S-Party Concert" in Guangzhou. In April 2013, he filmed the romance drama *Best Time* (最美的時光), based on Tong Hua's novel, playing the lead role of Elliott Lu. The series was a ratings hit, further increasing his popularity, and he won the Best Actor award for the Hong Kong and Taiwan region at the 4th LeTV awards. In November 2013, Chung starred as Qiao Feng in the wuxia drama *The Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils*, adapted from Louis Cha's novel. In March 2013, he filmed the republican drama *The Stand-In* (十月圍城), playing dual roles as Li Chongguang and Wang Asi, and also performed the ending theme "Gu Lang Xiang" (故鄉香) and the soundtrack song "Zhong Guo Shan" (中國山). The series was nominated for the Outstanding Television Series award at the Flying Apsaras Awards. In July, he starred in the anti-Japanese war drama *The City of Warriors* (勇士之城). In November, he appeared in the 3D fantasy film *Monster Hunt*, playing Ge Qianhu and singing the theme song "Qi Shu" (奇书). In December, he starred as Lin Jie in the romantic comedy *Girls*. In March 2014, Chung joined the cast of Han Han's road trip comedy film *The Continent*, playing the mysterious A Lv. In April, he starred as Liu Chong in the romantic comedy *Meet Miss Anxiety*, directed by Kwak Jae-yong.

2.3. Mainstream Popularity and International Recognition (2015-Present)

In June 2014, Chung filmed the romance drama *My Sunshine* (何以笙簫默), adapted from Gu Man's novel, playing the male lead He Yichen and performing the ending theme "What Is Love" (何以愛情). The series premiered on January 10, 2015, and became a major hit, propelling Chung to widespread mainstream popularity in China, earning him the nickname "Male God" (남신_nam-sin^Korean) among fans. It was also broadcast in South Korea on MBC. In October 2015, Chung received the Asia Grand Star Award at the Seoul International Drama Awards for his performances in *My Sunshine* and *The Stand-In*.

In November 2015, he announced his directorial debut, *Sandglass*, a youth film adapted from Rao Xueman's best-selling novel. On December 31, 2015, he officially released his album *Sing For Life* (乐作人生), with the title track as its main single. In January 2016, he announced his "Sing For Life" World Tour, which began in Shanghai on February 20, 2016, and subsequently traveled to Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Beijing.

In 2016, Chung starred as Wang Boyou in the action comedy film *Bounty Hunters*, directed by Shin Terra, alongside Tiffany Tang and Lee Min-ho. The film was released on July 1, 2016. In July, he also starred as Guo Zhiyong/Guo Zhihua in the cross-border action thriller *Tik Tok*, directed by Li Jun. He then played the antagonist Cheung Lai-shun in the crime drama film *Three*, directed by Johnnie To and co-starring Zhao Wei and Louis Koo. For his performance in *Three*, he won the Most Anticipated Actor award at the 19th China Movie Channel Media Award at the Shanghai International Film Festival and the Most Popular Actor at the 13th Guangzhou Student Film Festival. In March 2016, he was cast as Chu Beijie in the historical romance drama *General and I*, adapted from the novel *A Lonesome Fragrance Waiting to be Appreciated*, alongside Angelababy. The series premiered in January 2017, achieving high ratings and over 20 billion online views. Chung also performed the ending theme "A Lonesome Fragrance" (一支孤芳). In April 2016, he starred as Lu Fei in the urban romance drama *Memories of Love* (一路繁花相送), based on Qingshan Luotuo's novel. In October, he filmed the urban romance drama *All Out of Love* (凉生，我们可不可以不忧伤), playing Cheng Tianyou and singing the opening theme "Love that is Not Sad" (不忧伤的爱).

In March 2017, Chung executive produced and starred in the urban romance drama *Healing Love* (幸福的理由), portraying talented artist Fang Haosheng, with a focus on public welfare themes. In June, he served as a judge for the Shanghai Television Festival's Magnolia Awards, his first time as a judge for a major television award. In July, he was also a judge for the 45th International Emmy Awards' "Best Actress in Europe" category. On July 1, Chung opened the "Wallace Chung Visual Arts Exhibition" at the Shanghai Museum of Contemporary Art, incorporating AR technology and projection mapping. This exhibition also launched the "Wallace Chung W Liang Family Sunflower Project," with the first "Wallace Chung Happy Rural Library" initiative beginning on July 10. In February 2019, Chung performed "China's Joyful Event" at the CCTV Spring Festival Gala for the second time. In February, he starred as Yao Zhe in the war film *Liberation* (解放·终局营救), directed by Li Shaohong. In August, he starred as Li Xiang in the romantic comedy film *Adoring*. In September, he received the "Top 10 TV Actors" award at the 20th China TV Production Industry Awards. In November, he became a co-host of the travel and food show *Man You Ji* (漫游记) with Guo Qilin. In May 2020, Chung joined *Street Dance of China Season 3* as a team captain. In October, he began filming the police action film *Arch Enemy* (宿敌) and the urban romance drama *The Rest of My Life* (余生), later released as *Because of Love*. In February 2021, Chung starred as Xu Lingyi in the historical romance drama *The Sword and the Brocade* (锦心似玉), which achieved over 5 billion views on Tencent Video. In July, he became a resident cast member on Hunan TV's variety show *Summer Youth* (夏日少年派). In November, he participated as an explorer in the documentary *Journey of Warriors* (勇敢者的征程), recreating the Red Army's Long March. In 2022, he received the People's Choice: Popular Actor Award at the Seoul International Drama Awards for *Because of Love*. His upcoming project is the historical drama *The Emperor's Love* (倾城亦清欢), scheduled for 2024.

2.4. Filmography

3.1. Albums

4.1. Film and Television Awards

4.2. Music Awards

4.3. Other Accolades

6.1. Charitable Work and Advocacy

In 1996, Chung began serving as an image ambassador for Taiwan's Happy Wish Association, an organization dedicated to fulfilling the wishes of children with life-threatening illnesses. He has repeatedly helped "Wish Children" fulfill their last wishes, even composing the lyrics and music for the theme song "Want to Fly, Fly Over the World" (想飛，飛過世界) for the association.

On January 16, 2003, he participated in the large-scale concert "Love in the World Sings for Public Welfare" organized by Human Satellite TV. A portion of the concert's proceeds was donated to support post-tsunami reconstruction efforts in South Asia. On October 15, 2004, Chung, as an image representative for the "Long March for Education Support" project, participated in a fundraising walk in Ruijin to support children's education.

On January 1, 2005, he participated in the large-scale concert "Love in the World Wishes for Public Welfare." On December 28, as a guest on Dragon TV's charity program "Lightning Star Moved," he raised funds for a child with uremia, campaigning across Shanghai in a single day to gather donations for surgery costs. In June, on the 25th anniversary of the China Children and Teenagers' Fund, Chung was awarded the title of "China Children's Charity Star," with his name engraved on the "China Children's Charity Monument" on the Great Wall in Beijing. On September 3, he was appointed as the image spokesperson for the "Red Cross Book Bank" project by the Chinese Red Cross Foundation.

On March 11, 2007, he received the "Power Lightning Star" title at the new entertainment charity star awards ceremony organized by Dragon TV. On July 14, he participated in the "Light of Love Prevention Fund" charity sale event. On August 12, he joined the "One Fund" charity competition initiated by Jet Li, raising funds for emergency relief, disaster rescue, youth mental health initiatives, and humanitarian aid.

On May 17, 2008, he participated in the large-scale disaster relief performance "We Are One Heart." On May 31, he attended a charity gala organized by the Guizhou Provincial Red Cross Society and Guizhou People's Radio and Television Station to raise funds for Sichuan earthquake relief. Chung officially became the Guizhou Charity Ambassador, participating in the "Red Scarf Ecological Civilization Action" with children. From July 5 to July 26, he participated in Dragon TV's "Go On! 2008" program, successfully raising significant funds for disaster relief and school reconstruction in earthquake-stricken areas of Sichuan. In this program, Chung and other stars collectively raised 530.00 M CNY.

On November 5, 2011, he filmed the charity music video "Want to Fly, Fly Over the World" for the Shaanxi Education Organization. On July 19, 2014, he personally purchased 549 pairs of charity shoes through the "Buy One Good One Charity Channel" and donated them to all students at the central school in Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province. In April 2015, he donated 600.00 K TWD to the Happy Wish Association.

In October 2015, the "Good Match" charity project was launched in collaboration with an endorsed brand. This charity sale raised a total of 307.17 K CNY and completed its first book donation to 14 schools in October 2016. The project was relaunched on November 30, 2016, to help more children and ignite their passion for knowledge. On July 15, 2017, Chung and his fandom, Liang Family, participated in the construction of the 19th "Happy Rural Library" in Shanxi Province.

In February 2018, Chung participated in the poverty alleviation public welfare program "We Are Acting," traveling deep into villages in Xinping County, Yunnan Province, to experience rural life and promote local agricultural products. In September of the same year, he rejoined "We Are Acting," aiming to create a characteristic local industry in Nga Village and promote high-quality local products to help more impoverished families.

In February 2020, he participated in the public welfare music video "Let the World Be Full of Love" for the "War on Epidemics" alongside hundreds of stars. He also recorded a public service announcement for the Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, urging collective efforts against the pandemic, and donated nearly 2,000 bottles of hand sanitizer to Wuhan Children's Hospital. On July 23, 2021, Chung's agency, Hua Hua Cao Cao Television Culture Media, donated 500.00 K CNY to the Henan Provincial Charity Federation to support flood relief efforts in Henan.

6.2. Community Impact

Wallace Chung's social contributions and philanthropic activities have had a significant positive influence on communities and individuals. His long-standing involvement with the Happy Wish Association demonstrates a deep commitment to children's well-being. Through his "Sunflower Project" and the establishment of "Happy Rural Libraries," he actively promotes literacy and education in rural areas, believing that "reading does not necessarily change your destiny, but it will definitely enrich your life." His participation in poverty alleviation programs and disaster relief efforts highlights his dedication to practical aid and community development, leveraging his public platform to inspire action and provide tangible support to those in need.

7.1. Portrayal of Roles and Social Commentary

Chung is recognized for his versatility in portraying a wide range of characters, from historical figures and wuxia heroes to modern romantics and complex antagonists. His performances often delve into the psychological depth of his characters, allowing for nuanced interpretations. For instance, his dual roles in *Imminent Crisis* and *The Stand-In* showcased his ability to differentiate and embody distinct personalities. In films like *Three*, his portrayal of a criminal received critical praise for its intensity and departure from his usual heroic roles. While his roles are primarily entertainment-focused, his choice of characters and his public persona contribute to broader cultural discussions, reflecting or influencing societal values related to love, justice, and resilience.

7.2. Critical Assessment of Performances

Critics have consistently lauded Chung's acting abilities, particularly his dedication to character development and his captivating screen presence. His performance in *Imminent Crisis* earned him the Audience's Favorite TV Drama Actor award at the China TV Golden Eagle Award, a significant national recognition. He also received Best Actor awards at the LeTV awards for *The Magic Blade* and *Best Time*. His portrayal of the antagonist in *Three* garnered him the Most Anticipated Actor award at the Shanghai International Film Festival's China Movie Channel Media Awards, further cementing his reputation as a versatile and powerful actor capable of handling challenging roles.

7.3. Public Perception and Influence

Wallace Chung's public image is characterized by his enduring popularity and charisma. He earned the affectionate moniker "Little Sun" early in his career in Taiwan, symbolizing his bright and positive appeal. Later, in mainland China, he became widely known as "Male God" (남신_nam-sin^Korean), particularly after the success of *My Sunshine*. His consistent presence on the Forbes China Celebrity 100 list (ranking 68th in 2013, 94th in 2014, 45th in 2015, and 31st in 2017) underscores his significant influence and commercial value in the entertainment industry. Beyond his acting and singing, his active involvement in philanthropy and social welfare further enhances his public perception as a responsible and compassionate public figure.