There are very few records about Trien Chieu in historical texts, so the true identity of this figure is quite elusive.
In movies, the public is familiar with the image of Trien Chieu always by Bao Cong's side, aiding in solving cases. This character is known for exceptional martial arts skills in the martial world. However, the real background of this individual is not widely known.
Is Trien Chieu real or fictional?
According to Chinese historical records, Trien Chieu, also known as Hung Phi, was a figure who lived during the reign of Emperor Song Renzong.
Trien Chieu hailed from the martial world, possessing formidable martial arts skills. Impressed by Bao Chung's integrity, he decided to become his assistant. Bao Chung recommended Trien Chieu to the emperor. Subsequently, Trien Chieu was bestowed the title of Imperial Guard Commander, also known as Trien Guard.
Trien Chieu, along with Cong Ton Sach, Vuong Trieu, Ma Han, Truong Long, and Trieu Ho, assisted Bao Cong in solving many cases.

The greatest adversary of Trien Chieu is a group of five sworn brothers called the Five Trials, named so because they all have the character 'trial' in their aliases, including Toan Thien Trial Lu Phuong, Triet Dia Trial Han Chuong, Xuyen Son Trial Tu Khanh, Phien Giang Trial Tuong Binh, and Cam Mao Trial Bach Ngoc Duong. Trien Chieu had a martial brother named Duong Nhan.

Trien Chieu handsome, skilled in martial arts, and righteous on screen
Although a historical figure, Trien Chieu is not extensively documented in historical texts. Particularly, there are no records preserving the actual image of this figure. He is more renowned in Chinese folklore and cinema.

The 1993 version of Bao Thanh Thien is known as a classic masterpiece of Asian television in general and Chinese television in particular. The series recounts the thrilling detective stories of the literary official Bao Cong and the martial general Trien Chieu, alongside Cong Ton Sach.
With his righteous image as the right-hand man of Bao Cong, Trien Chieu garnered the affection of numerous audiences.
In the film, Trien Chieu possesses handsome looks and is a righteous hero. He is a loyal and trusted aide of Bao Thanh Thien. Trien Chieu stands by to protect Bao Thanh Thien, having saved this official's life on numerous occasions. He also assists Bao Cong significantly in solving cases.



In the series Bao Thanh Thien, Ha Gia Kinh plays Trien Chieu - the martial arts expert who stands by Bao Cong. At the time of airing, the actor was beloved by audiences for portraying Trien as a gallant hero, with exceptional martial arts skills, upholding justice and righteousness.
Thanks to this role, the actor born in 1959 became a leading star in Asia, eagerly sought after by filmmakers in the 90s.
Alongside Ha Gia Kinh, there have been many stars such as Lưu Lương Vỹ, Lưu Đức Hoa, Tiêu Ân Tuấn… who portrayed Trien Chieu, but when mentioning this legendary character, Ha Gia Kinh is praised above all. To this day, the actor is known as the 'most handsome Trien Chieu on screen'.