Corruption in Hong Kong 50s-now?

That is partly true. Corruption was popular in 50s-60s in Hong Kong. Corruption was a common practice in many government departments, not only Chinee, but also the Bristish officers. In 1970s, the chief superintendent of Hong Kong Police Godber was discovered that his wealt was abnormally high. While the government requested Godber to explain his sources of income, he escaped to Britiain. This incident kindled the demand for an integrity government among HK residents. In 1974, Hong Kong government established an independent branch called Independent Commission Against Corruption，ICAC in order to abolish corruption. As to maintain the stability of Hong Kong, ICAC agreed not to investigate any cases before 1977, as the result of the protest of a large amount of police officers in Hong Kong. As ICAC is a totally independent department and is only responsible for the HK governor or the chief executive when British left, it plays a very significant role in sustaining the integrity and efficiency of Hong Kong society. Hong Kong therefore can be such a properous and vivid international city with the reputation of one of the most efficicent and open governmentnwadays.

I knew a guy in the military who's buddy joined the Hong Kong police in the late 1970/s or early 1980's. Apparently, if you weren't on the take within about 6 months of joined, they just "eliminated" you. It was possible to stay straight, but, apparently pretty difficult.

I have no idea who started the corruption, but, apparently it was there.

There are a number of articles/books about it available online. On Google books, look up "Measuring Corruption" by Charles J.G. Sampford.