RTHK launches new media platform and AI-generated mascot 'Dian Dian'

RTHK has launched a new media platform featuring AI-driven content and five themed series, alongside an AI-generated mascot named 'Dian Dian' to boost appeal among younger audiences. An online education resource centre offering free school programming was also announced.

Hong Kong's public broadcaster, Radio Television Hong Kong (RTHK), has launched a new media platform and unveiled an artificial intelligence (AI)-generated mascot named 'Dian Dian', the Broadcasting Controller, Yuen Wai-yi, announced on 5 October.

Yuen said the platform leverages new media's wide reach and production speed to offer diverse online content, enhancing RTHK's communication capabilities and showcasing the extensive application of AI technology. RTHK aims to use the platform and mascot to inject vitality and approachability, attracting a broader audience, particularly younger generations, to its radio and television productions.

The new media platform presents Hong Kong's strengths and community features from multiple angles, with specially tailored content organised around five themes. These include 'Wa～Good Hong Kong', which explores heart-warming community stories; 'Wa～Good Quiz', a light-hearted programme highlighting Hong Kong's charm; and 'Wa～Good Places', which introduces local activities, cultural sites and cuisine to residents and tourists. RTHK stated it hopes the platform's content will promote Hong Kong and its spirit in an engaging yet accessible manner.

Additionally, the broadcaster is using AI to restore precious archival materials, presenting Hong Kong's development through old-new comparisons in 'Wa～Good Classics'. A forthcoming series, 'Wa～Good Drama', will offer online short dramas produced using AI, animation, live-action and hybrid techniques, driving wider AI adoption in media production to improve efficiency and content diversity. The platform is now available on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.

RTHK also introduced 'Dian Dian', a mascot generated by AI. Its design concept is inspired by the electromagnetic waves that underpin RTHK's radio and television services, symbolising the broadcaster's long broadcasting history and its role in delivering information to Hong Kong citizens. 'Dian Dian' will serve as a symbol of the new media platform and will appear in RTHK's online content, television, radio and public events.

Furthermore, RTHK launched an online education resource centre on the same day, featuring over a dozen selected educational and youth-themed programmes. Schools can apply for free licences to broadcast and use these programmes for teaching purposes. RTHK said it will regularly update the centre's featured programmes.