A school principal in Hong Kong has said he will seek legal advice after being dismissed following a dispute during a student trip to Singapore.
The principal, Lee Cheuk-hing, was removed from his position at San Wui Commercial Society Secondary School in Tuen Mun after an incident that took place during a school excursion on May 22.
According to his statement, Lee expressed “shock and regret” over the decision by the school board, which terminated his employment with immediate effect on June 2. He said he had initially planned to resign but that the board rejected his resignation and proceeded with immediate dismissal.
The case stems from an incident during a student trip to Singapore, where Lee was filmed swearing at security guards. The video circulated widely and led to public attention, prompting disciplinary action and an official investigation by education authorities.
Following the incident, Lee was suspended while the Education Bureau reviewed the situation. The school board later decided to end his employment rather than accept his resignation.
In his public statement, Lee said he has now appointed legal representatives to examine whether his dismissal followed proper employment procedures. He indicated that he will seek advice on his legal rights and possible next steps.
The school has not released further details about the internal disciplinary process. However, the case has drawn attention in education circles in Hong Kong, where schools are required to maintain strict professional conduct standards, especially during overseas student activities.
Incidents involving school staff abroad are typically subject to both institutional review and oversight by education authorities. In this case, the involvement of the Education Bureau added an additional layer of scrutiny.
The incident highlights the expectations placed on school leaders when supervising students on international trips. Principals and teachers are responsible not only for student safety but also for representing their schools in public settings.
Education officials have previously emphasized that staff conduct during school activities, including overseas travel, must meet professional standards at all times. Breaches of conduct can lead to disciplinary measures, including suspension or termination.
Lee’s dismissal has sparked discussion about due process and proportionality in disciplinary decisions. Supporters argue that context and pressure during travel situations should be considered, while critics say senior school leaders must be held to high standards regardless of circumstances.
The case also raises broader questions about how schools manage staff behavior outside the classroom, particularly during international programs that involve students, parents, and external organizations.
As Lee seeks legal advice, the outcome of any potential challenge to his dismissal remains uncertain. Employment disputes in education cases are typically reviewed based on contract terms, disciplinary procedures, and evidence of misconduct.
For now, the school has not announced who will replace him in the principal role. The Education Bureau’s review is expected to clarify whether additional action is needed or whether the school’s decision will stand.
The incident continues to attract attention in both educational and public sectors in Hong Kong, as institutions consider how best to balance accountability, leadership responsibility, and fair employment practices.
