Peking University, June 23, 2025: On Saturday afternoon, Peking University Guanghua School of Management hosted an insightful session of its “FUTURE Talk” series, titled “A Dialogue with Shanghai Disney Resort.” The event featured Murray King, Vice President of Public Affairs and Communications at Shanghai Disney Resort, and was co-organized by the School of Journalism and Communication and the Office of Global Communications (OGC). The event attracted a full audience of students, alumni, faculty, and guests. 

In his keynote address, King offered a behind-the-scenes look at how Shanghai Disney Resort has become the most visited theme park in China and the fifth globally. He reflected on the park’s evolution from concept to reality, guided by the philosophy of being “authentically Disney and distinctly Chinese.”

“We don’t just build parks,” King said. “We build places where people create the happiest memories of their lives. People might forget what we build—but they never forget how we made them feel.”

A highlight of the presentation was the story of the Zootopia-themed land, opened in December 2023 - the first of its kind in the world. King emphasized how its core message, “Anyone can be anything,” deeply resonated with Chinese youth, especially those leaving small towns for big cities in search of opportunity.

“The story of Judy Hopps reflects the journey of millions,” he said. “It speaks to perseverance, courage, and the belief that dreams can become reality.”

King also quoted the Chinese proverb “天道酬勤” (Heaven rewards the diligent), acknowledging the hard work of Disney’s cast members and local partners in bringing the resort to life.

Technological innovation was another focus. King highlighted the use of trackless ride systems, audio animatronics, and immersive design in the Zootopia attraction—not to showcase machinery, but to deepen emotional storytelling.

Beyond entertainment, King stressed Disney’s social mission. He shared how the resort collaborates with wildlife conservation teams in Northeast China, annually inviting rangers and their families to the park. “If these animals disappear in the wild, they disappear from our stories too. Conservation is also storytelling— protecting the magic of the real world.”

Following the keynote, a roundtable discussion was held with Professor Zhang Ying of the Guanghua School of Management. Together with King and the audience, they explored themes of cultural branding, emotional connection, and career growth. Prof. Zhang praised Disney’s “strategic empathy” in understanding local dreams and identities.


The event concluded with an inspiring message from King: “You are not your major. You are your story. Be bold. Be curious. Life is full of surprises—and just like in Zootopia, anyone can be anything.”

He left students with one final Chinese proverb: “千里之行，始于足下”—A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.

At Peking University, we are committed to making a meaningful difference in people’s lives and fostering happiness, and this lecture stands as a testament to that dedication.


Written by: Pralhad Gupta
Edited by: Chen Shizhuo