HONG KONG: Cantonese opera actress Yemina Yu Chung Yan, 32, recently tied the knot with 73-year-old politician Lo Wai Kwok.
Beyond their 41-year age gap, the union has attracted significant public attention because the groom is a decade older than his new father-in-law, veteran horse racing commentator Yu Pak Lok, and has known the bride since her childhood.
According to 8Days, the couple's wedding ceremony took place at the Hong Kong Jockey Club's Beas River Country Club on Oct 11, with about 300 guests in attendance.
Pictures shared online showed the traditional tea ceremony, where the couple served tea to 63-year-old Pak Lok.
Both the newlyweds and the bride's father remained standing during the ritual rather than following the customary kneeling protocol.
Lo, a former Hong Kong legislator and current chairman of the Business and Professionals Alliance for Hong Kong, first crossed paths with Pak Lok over two decades ago through a shared passion for traditional arts and horse racing.
At the time, Yemina was a child performer who began opera training at age five.
Impressed by her talent in a competition, Lo learned she was his friend's daughter. She had addressed him as "Uncle Lo" for over 20 years.
Their dynamic shifted dramatically in May this year, after Yemina completed her veterinary medicine exams. What began as late-night text exchanges about Cantonese opera quickly took a romantic turn when Lo responded to an opera quote from Yemina with lines expressing his admiration and a desire for lifelong companionship.
Their romance blossomed, and within three weeks, the pair had chosen a venue, commissioned rings, and begun gown preparations.
The couple share a deep passion for music, Cantonese opera, and equestrian pursuits.
Highlighting their interests, Lo personally drove his prized 1994 Ferrari 348 Spider to pick up his bride, noting with a smile that the classic sports car was manufactured in the year Yemina was born.
Pak Lok gave his full blessing to the marriage, saying, "I have no problem with it."
He also described his long-time friend as a responsible partner who will care deeply for his daughter.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd