In a recent interview, we sat down with Hu Weiguang, affectionately known as “Uncle Guokui,” who operates a popular snack stall called “Zhejiang Guokui” near Fuzhou University Town. Along with his wife, Hu has become a comforting presence in the area, especially during the chilly autumn and winter months. Their delicious and affordable guokui has earned them a loyal following among students, who eagerly support their humble business.
On October 18, a video titled “Do you love guokui? The kind that’s packed with meat!” circulated on social media, bringing attention not only to their delectable offerings but also to the challenges the couple is facing. Hu’s wife is struggling with health issues, placing a significant financial burden on the family. Despite these difficulties, Hu remains committed to his customers, maintaining his principle of “more for the same price.”
“This overwhelming support has truly touched our hearts,” Hu expressed on October 23, five days after the video was released. The stall continues to draw in crowds, with his son Hu Jiaming, a 21-year-old veteran who was planning to return to school, stepping in to help run the stall as a solid support for his father.
Recently, Hu Weiguang has frequently accompanied his wife to medical appointments, allowing his son to take over the stall. With demand skyrocketing, some customers find themselves waiting in line for three to five hours or scanning QR codes to make payments when they can’t get the food.
“I hope people can be mindful and consume rationally,” Hu Jiaming said, highlighting his commitment to hard work as a means to overcome their struggles.
The father and son duo also feels a deep sense of obligation towards those who leave empty-handed. “We’ve run out of ingredients to serve everyone in line,” Hu Jiaming explained. “So, the other night, we cut the last few guokui we made into small pieces to give out as samples to those who didn’t get to buy one.”
This mutual care has moved many students who come to support them. “Uncle’s guokui is not just filling, it’s also really delicious,” said Yao Yiru, a sophomore journalism major at Fujian University of Technology. “Even though the wait can be long, I’m happy to stand in line and do my part. We’re all the children of hardworking individuals, and we appreciate the effort that goes into every dish.”
Yao even started a WeChat group called “Uncle Guokui,” which now has 500 members, including Hu Weiguang and his son. Messages of encouragement fill the chat: “Wishing Auntie a speedy recovery!” and “Uncle, your guokui is the best!” These heartfelt sentiments have helped keep their spirits high.
As evening fell, Hu Weiguang returned to the stall after escorting his wife home from treatment. His eyes welled with emotion as he watched the line of patient customers and his son diligently preparing the food. “Everything will be alright,” he assured, fighting back tears.
When he took over from his son, Hu quietly urged him to take a break, while Jiaming diligently prepped the dough for their next round of guokui. In the warm light of their stall, the father and son moved in harmony, embodying the strength of their bond.
Looking ahead, Hu Weiguang emphasized that caring for his wife remains his top priority. “I am deeply grateful for all the assistance we’ve received. My wife is starting her treatment now. Sometimes, even when she sees me feeling overwhelmed, she tries to reassure me.” He added, “We will remember everyone’s kindness and continue to run this stall together. As we’re able, we hope to extend that kindness to others in need.”
