The Latest Portrait of Kwong Wa, the Actor Who Played Monk Tang Seng in 'Journey to the West' Now Living as an Entertainer at a Tourist Spot

Kapanlagi.com - Do you still remember the character Monk Tang Seng in the legendary series Journey to the West? The wise figure who led the journey with Sun Wukong was played by Kwong Wa, an actor from Hong Kong who was once an idol in the 1990s.

Now, after more than two decades have passed, the latest news about him has shocked the public, as Kwong Wa is reportedly working as an entertainer at a tourist spot.

1. From Top Actor to Simple Life

Kwong Wa, whose real name is Chan Muk-wah, was born on November 19, 1961, in Hong Kong. He is known as one of the most influential television actors of his time. His popularity skyrocketed thanks to his role as Monk Tong Sam-chong in the series Journey to the West (1996), which is known in Indonesia as Kera Sakti.

However, his career did not stop there. Kwong Wa also appeared in several major TVB dramas such as A Step Into the Past, The Conqueror’s Story, The Legend of Lady Yang, and The King of Yesterday and Tomorrow. In the last drama, he played Emperor Yongzheng, who travels to the future—a role that further solidified his reputation as a talented actor.

2. Fading Popularity and Scandals That Struck

Tong Sam Chong - Kwong Wa

Although he was once at the peak of fame, Kwong Wa's career began to fade in the early 2000s. Several factors contributed to this. According to reports from Detik Hot and Liputan6, he suffered from a severe back injury that made it difficult for him to act. In addition, rumors of an affair with actress Sheren Tang emerged, even though he was still married to singer Kitman Mak at the time. The scandal also affected his image in the eyes of the public.

As time went on, Kwong Wa was also reported to be experiencing mental pressure and depression, which led him to choose to withdraw from the entertainment world. After leaving TVB, he tried several other jobs to make ends meet, including becoming an insurance agent—a move that surprised the public in Hong Kong.

3. Latest News as an Entertainer at Tourist Attractions

Latest news about Kwong Wa emerged again in October 2025. Quoting from QQ via Kbizoom (21/10), the 63-year-old actor was seen working at a tourist spot in Hong Kong alongside several other veteran artists such as Lam Chun Hin and Cheng Kwok Lam.

In a video uploaded by Cheng Kwok Lam, Kwong Wa is seen wearing a complete emperor costume while interacting with tourists. His face appeared sweaty from working under the scorching sun, but he still smiled warmly and served visitors who wanted to take photos with him. This moment touched many netizens, recalling that Kwong Wa used to be the leading actor in major TVB series.

4. Serving Visitors with Sincere Heart

According to a report by Liputan6 (21/10), Kwong Wa's work is not just about appearing on the entertainment stage, but truly becoming a tourist entertainer who welcomes visitors, takes photos, and performs in small shows in recreational areas. Although it may seem simple, many long-time fans praise his spirit to keep working hard and not be ashamed to face life's changes.

5. Once Tried the Business and Live Streaming World

Before working at the tourist site, Kwong Wa tried his luck in the world of e-commerce live streaming in 2022. As reported by Dramapanda, he opened an online store and conducted live broadcasts to sell various products. However, the business only lasted about six months before eventually closing due to a lack of viewers.

Despite his various efforts not always being successful, Kwong Wa continues to show an indomitable spirit. He is known as a hardworking individual who strives to rise again even after being far from the spotlight.

6. Reflection on the Life of a Legend

The life story of Kwong Wa now serves as a real portrait of how a celebrity's life can change drastically after the peak of their fame. From a renowned actor known throughout Asia, he now spends his days as a tourist entertainer and a former insurance agent.

However, instead of being pitied, many actually respect him for his sincerity and resilience in facing reality. At the age of 63, Kwong Wa chooses to keep moving and continue working, demonstrating that a person's worth is not determined by popularity, but by the spirit to endure and live life with dignity.

(kpl/chn)