HK action maestro Corey Yuen died in 2022 from Covid-19, death kept secret by family

HK filmmaker Corey Yuen began his film journey with minor roles in the 1970s before he gradually transitioned to directing and choreographing action sequences. Photos: China Press

Renowned Hong Kong filmmaker and action maestro Corey Yuen has died. He was 71.

The news of his death was confirmed by Shaolin Soccer actor Tin Kai-Man on Aug 12.

In an interview with HK01, Tin revealed that Yuen had passed away from Covid-19 in 2022. However, news of his death was never made public due to his family’s wishes.

Born on Feb 15, 1951, Yuen was one of the founding members of the influential Seven Little Fortunes martial arts group. Known members include Jackie Chan and Sammo Hung.

In a Weibo post, Chan expressed his grief and urged fans to join in remembering Yuen.

“It is with profound sadness that we bid farewell to Corey Yuen, whose legacy in action cinema is unparalleled. Let us honour his memory together,” said the 70-year-old, as quoted by HK news portal Dimsum Daily.

Yuen’s journey in the film industry began with minor roles in the 1970s before he gradually transitioned to directing and choreographing action sequences.

He had his first taste of fame as an action director with the 1998 Hollywood film Lethal Weapon 4 and has worked on major productions such as X-Men (2000), Romeo Must Die (2000), The Expendables (2010) and more.