Two cultural themes have been dominant amongst the 13 chapters of the compilation honouring Professor Frederick Leung’s mathematics educational research. These relate to Confucian values and to the non-cognitive aspects of mathematics education. They evolved from research studies that paid attention to the sociocultural context of mathematics teaching and learning, inspired by Professor Leung’s past and current research. In particular, it is argued that the many Confucian values that had been associated with East Asian students’ excellent mathematics performance might be indicative of a terminal value, filial piety. As for non-cognitive factors, beliefs and motivation have been prominently researched. Even though many of the research studies featured in the tribute volume were conducted in China, there is much for all to learn and gain, in the spirit of Professor Leung’s research legacy.