Shih-I Hsiung on the air: a Chinese pioneer at the BBC during World War II

Abstract

This article studies Shih-I Hsiung’s contribution to BBC’s Asia programs between 1940 and 1942. Hsiung, who grew up in China, went to England in 1932 and became a renowned writer after the publication and staging of Lady Precious Stream in 1934. In 1940, he was invited to prepare news reports in both English and Chinese languages, targeting the audiences in Asia; and in 1941 he was asked to broadcast news commentaries in Chinese. These radio programs, well received in Hong Kong, China, and Southeast Asian countries, were discontinued after the Pacific War broke out in early 1942. By studying this historical episode, the article aims to underline the significant role Hsiung played in the international coalition in anti-Fascist efforts. Though Hsiung is generally known for his literary and theatrical accomplishments, his cultural and political contributions during World War II deserve recognition. Utilizing language skills, cultural knowledge, and social influences, he helped rally support for his home country and boost the morale of the Chinese in their resistance against Japanese invasion. Through radio broadcasting, which was a sophisticated transcontinental network, Hsiung effectively enabled the audiences in China and Asia to be informed and connected.