In a dramatic year of political transformation, Hong Kong witnessed unprecedented changes as seasoned politicians and emerging leaders reshaped the city's governance in 2025.

Former lawmaker Regina Ip Lau Suk-yee marked the end of an extraordinary half-century political career, joining 11 other legislators aged 70 and above in stepping down from public office during the December 7 electoral poll. The mass retirement represented the highest proportion of legislative turnover since Hong Kong's return to Chinese sovereignty in 1997.

Ip's New People's Party experienced a significant setback, winning only three seats compared to its previous six-seat representation. In a candid moment, Ip revealed her emotional state during the transition, telling reporters she was experiencing 'an almost panic attack' and appeared 'rather angry' about the potential electoral losses.

The year's political narrative was not solely defined by veteran politicians. Gold medalist fencer Vivian Kong Man-wai emerged as a noteworthy legislator, representing a new generation of public servants bridging athletic achievement with political representation.

Beyond formal political figures, everyday citizens also made meaningful contributions to public discourse. A local mother gained widespread recognition for her courageous public stance following a controversial hot-air balloon festival incident, demonstrating the power of individual voices in shaping community conversations.

The 2025 election saw 35 sitting lawmakers voluntarily stepping down, signaling a significant generational and ideological shift in Hong Kong's political ecosystem. This unprecedented transition highlighted the dynamic and evolving nature of the city's democratic processes.