From Industrial Heartland to CBD2

Kwun Tong is among Hong Kong's most thoroughly reinvented business districts. Once known for factories and warehouses, the area has been completely reshaped since the government positioned Kwun Tong and Kowloon Bay as the city's second core business district, or CBD2, under the Energizing Kowloon East initiative. Many old industrial buildings have been revitalised into Grade A offices, and combined with several new commercial developments, Kwun Tong has shifted from a production base into a cluster of corporate headquarters and back-office operations.

Against traditional cores such as Central, Kwun Tong's biggest draw is cost. Companies can lease larger, more modern Grade A floors at meaningfully lower rents, making it ideal for firms that need space yet value cost efficiency.

Five Representative Building Types

Kwun Tong's office supply is diverse and broadly falls into five categories:

  • New landmark Grade A towers: recent large developments matching Central specifications, with high ceilings, large floor plates and modern facilities.
  • Revitalised commercial buildings: converted from old industrial stock, efficient and flexible with affordable rents.
  • Mall-podium offices: combining retail and office with abundant dining and shopping amenities.
  • Traditional commercial buildings: older but conveniently located, suited to budget-first SMEs.
  • Mixed commercial-industrial buildings: housing office and light operations, ideal for trading, design and studios.

Dual Rail Network and Connectivity

Transport is Kwun Tong's core strength. Kwun Tong MTR station sits on the Kwun Tong Line, running directly to Mong Kok, Yau Ma Tei and the Kowloon core, while the nearby Tseung Kwan O Line (interchange at Yau Tong or Lam Tin) links Island East and the Tseung Kwan O new town, greatly widening staff commuting range. Extensive bus and minibus networks plus links to Kai Tak make the district highly convenient for both staff and clients.

Rent Levels and Suitable Industries

On cost, Kwun Tong Grade A rents sit well below the Island cores; even the newest landmark towers offer standout value, giving firms Grade A floors at below-core cost.

By sector, Kwun Tong particularly suits:

  • Technology and startups: needing space and flexibility while cost sensitive.
  • Trading and logistics: close to Kai Tak and freight nodes.
  • Design, media and creative industries: revitalised spaces fit creative needs.
  • Corporate back office and service centres: housing many seats at lower cost.

In sum, Kwun Tong has matured from an industrial zone into a business core combining cost, space and connectivity, making it one of the most compelling choices for firms seeking to upgrade their premises today.