South Korean YouTuber's wheelchair ride uncovers the heartstrings of HK's warmth and accessibility

Amidst the bustling streets of Hong Kong, South Korean paraplegic YouTuber Park We has recently unveiled a new perspective of the city's accessible transportation system and the warm support extended to those with disabilities.

In a video uploaded earlier this month, Park and his friend captured their journey navigating the city's transport from Kowloon to Hong Kong Island.

Before their adventure on the MTR, the duo praised the overall planning of the sidewalks, noting that while the sidewalks are sometimes narrow, no curbs or steps hinder wheelchair accessibility.

Highlighting the inclusion of tactile paving for visually impaired pedestrians on the roads, Park was also impressed with his pleasant experience with the elevators, handrails and smooth floor for wheelchair users.

While waiting for the elevator, he noticed a sign indicating a priority line for those with mobility issues, remarking that there is no similar guide in South Korea.

When faced with the gap between the train and the platform, Park hesitated and sought help from his friend to exit the train during their transfer.

Park praised for the barrier-free facilities and kind assistance from MTR staff

Before boarding a train to Wan Chai, they approached a help desk, where an MTR staff member was deployed to assist them by placing a folding board to bridge the gap, ensuring a safer entry onto the train.

The staff warmly advised the YouTuber to ask the service next time before boarding the train at the customer service center to get a smoother experience.

Both of them appreciated the help from the staff member, with his friend saying, "so if you just ask for help, it's easy to get assistance."

After enjoying lunch, the duo planned to visit Central and returned to Tsim Sha Tsui via the Star Ferry.

Despite some communication difficulties with the ride-hailing service driver, Park praised his patience and assistance, making their trip comfortable.

Shortly after boarding the Star Ferry, Park noticed a designated wheelchair section and felt reassured by the stable facilities during the ride, even taking pictures with some local fans on the boat.

YouTuber believing in miracle after three-meter fall

The 38-year-old YouTuber was a former football player who became paralyzed after a drunk three-meter fall in May 2014.

Thanks to his active rehabilitation and the support of his loved ones, he has regained some upper body mobility and launched his YouTube channel, "Weracle," in 2019, which has gathered over 970,000 subscribers to date.

The channel's name–Wearcle– is a combination of "We" from Park's name and the English word "miracle," aiming to spread hopeful messages to audiences and raise awareness about the needs of people with disabilities for a more inclusive society.

Additionally, Park's touching love story has begun a new chapter as he married Song Ji Eun last October, a former member of the girl group Secret, who has starred in popular Korean dramas such as "Sweet Home, Sweet Honey," "Melting Me Softly," and "My Secret Romance."

(Phoebe Poon)

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