'Ji Gongs' set new Guinness record

Over 700 people set a new Guinness world record by dressing up as Ji Gong, a monk in traditional Chinese legend who purportedly possessed supernatural power through Buddhist practice and used it to help the poor and stand up to injustice.

The event, organized by local charity organizations Tung Cheng Yuen Buddhist Association, Tung Sin Tan and Tung Wah Group of Hospitals yesterday, saw the largest gathering of people dressed as Ji Gong. Some 730 people from schools, organizations and religious groups took part in the event. They put on Ji Gong's iconic costumes, including his traditional cap, navy robe and trousers, monk shoes, monk bags, a calabash, a string of prayer beads, a cattail leaf fan and a waistband.

The last world record was set in 2019 when 339 people wore as Ji Gong.

"The refreshed Guinness record is of great significance and represents that the recognition of Ji Gong culture has been further improved," the association said.