Vicky, for those who might not know you well yet — how would you describe yourself in three words, both as a player and as a person? I’d say straightforward, passionate, and perseverant. I know some people might think I come offas a bit intimidating at first glance, maybe it’s my game face or just how focused I get but once you get to know me, you’ll see I’m someone who speaks honestly, puts my whole heart into what Ido, and never gives up easily. That’s true both on and off the pitch. I don’t sugarcoat things, but that’s because I care deeply about my team, my goals and the people around me. You represent both Kitchee and the Hong Kong national team. What does it mean to you to wear the Hong Kong badge and play for your country? It’s something that still gives me chills every time I put on the jersey. Representing Hong Kong — whether it's for Kitchee or the national team is a huge honor, but also a big responsibility. It’s not just about playing a game. It’s about representing a place, a people, and everything we’re striving for. Every time I step on the field, I know I’m not just playing for myself but I’m also playing for every young girl who dreams of being where I am one day, for the fans who support us through thick and thin, and for the growth of women’s football in Hong Kong. That’s something I don’t take lightly.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Vicky Chung | Kitchee | HK Womens Footballer⚽️ (@vickypkchung)
Take us back, when did your love for football first begin, and what kept you chasing the game all the way to the professional level? I kicked my first ball when I was about 9, but it wasn’t until I was around 14 that I really fell in love with football. That’s when I realized this wasn't just a hobby. It was something I wanted to build my life around. There were definitely moments I wanted to give up. Times when the support wasn’t there, or when the future felt uncertain. But football kept calling me back. It shaped me. It taught me how to push through challenges, how to fail and get back up, and how to believe in something bigger than myself. It gave me a purpose and a sense of identity. I honestly don't know who I’d be without it. Playing for Kitchee, one of the top clubs in Hong Kong, comes with high expectations. How do you keep yourself grounded and motivated in that environment? When you become a player for a top club in Hong Kong, people's expectations on you are definitely different, and I may not be able to meet them all. The only thing I can do is continue to work hard on myself (physically, mentally, and spiritually). When I encounter difficulties or problems, I would watch the playback for self-reflection and seek out trusted coaches for consultation.
From your perspective, what are the biggest challenges facing women’s football in Hong Kong right now, and what changes would you love to see? One of the biggest challenges is simply the lack of numbers especially at the grassroots level. A lot of primary and secondary schools don’t have enough girls to form full 11-a-side teams. That makes it really hard for young players to get regular match experience and build chemistry. I’d love to see more small-sided tournaments and training platforms across the city. It’s less pressure for newcomers, and a great way to keep more girls playing the game long-term. If we can build a stronger base, I truly believe women’s football here has huge potential. Football teaches more than just tactics and fitness. What’s the biggest life lesson the game has taught you so far? It’s taught me how to be a better human being. And I don’t say that lightly. Football puts you in situations where your character gets tested. When you lose, when you make mistakes, when things don’t go your way. Through those moments, I’ve learned patience, humility, leadership, and empathy. “Being a good person” might sound simple, but it’s not always easy especially in a competitive environment. Football has taught me how to carry myself with integrity, how to be part of a team, and how to treat people with respect, even when emotions are high.
We know you’re also building something exciting off the pitch with K.9 and VAR. Can you tell us what they’re about and what inspired you to start them? K.9 is my personal brand, a combination of my name and number. I've always dreamed of having my own brand or business, and now I've taken the first step. I hope my brand reminds me of my roots and inspires those who speak out. And VAR is my working and management partner.
How do you balance being a professional athlete with running your own brand? Is it tough juggling both worlds? Honestly… it’s tough. Between training, matches, and coaching to support myself financially, finding time to build a brand from the ground up isn’t easy. Most days, I’m either on the pitch or working with young players. But in the quiet moments, early mornings, late nights — I pour my energy into K.9. Whether it’s brainstorming ideas, learning about design, or just reflecting on what message I want to send out, I try to make progress bit by bit. It’s tiring sometimes, but also fulfilling. The key is having a strong sense of why I’m doing all this that keeps me going. If you could describe the vibe or message behind K.9 in just one sentence, what would it be? “To speak your truth, and to keep goingno matter what.” That’s the heart of it. Outside of training, matches, and business, what’s your go-to way to switch off and recharge? The seaside. Always. There’s something about the sound of the waves and just sitting by the water with my favorite drink or snack. It calms me down and clears my mind. That’s where I go to reflect, reset, or just breathe. Life moves fast, and when I’m by the sea, I feel like I can finally slow down.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Vicky Chung | Kitchee | HK Womens Footballer⚽️ (@vickypkchung)
Looking ahead, what’s your ultimate dream both as a footballer and as an entrepreneur with K.9? As a footballer, I’m still chasing the dream of playing abroad. That’s been a goal for a long time, and I’m not giving up on it. I want to test myself at the highest level I can reach. And for K.9, I hope to launch products that really reflect who I am - raw, real, and unique. I want people to see the brand and feel something, whether it's inspiration, courage, or just connection. There’s a long road ahead, but I’m excited for every step of it.