leaving august 1st from US w/ a 1-way ticket.. what's the worst that could happen?

[PorkChop]

I came over from Australia 8 months ago. Got to the airport in Oz, was so excited about coming, and lady at check in counter wouldn't let me check in without ticket.
Had to go buy a return ticket on the spot (I just said make it a return for 3 months time), and then go back to check in.
When I got to HK, I had to send the ticket back to a special address for Qantas in Australia, so that the money I spent on the return ticket was refunded.
I NEARLY MISSSED MY FLIGHT BECAUSE OF ALL THAT, SO IT MIGHT BE WORTH CHECKING IT OUT WITH YOUR IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT AND ALSO HK IMMIGRATION BEFORE YOU COME.

[MisterTanaka]

Shri and PorkChop both raise good points, so while I would probably take the chance and buy the one-way ticket, my advice may not be the best for the original poster.

Plus, this same topic is under discussion at FlyerTalk. This thread doesn't really clear anything up -- anecdotal evidence suggests that, well, you may or may not be required to show a return ticket.

If your credit card can swing it, buying a fully-refundable ticket (and then refunding it once you're in Hong Kong) might be the safest solution.

[Geishboy]

I'm the lucky bloke who will be anxiously awaiting the beautiful Ms. KK.Carter and the a-hole responsible for all this confusion. Thanks to all for your help. A few points to maybe clarify things....

HK Immigration - I was told that only a one-way ticket would be needed to enter HK. After calling back a day later I was told that a one-way ticket would be fine as long as future travel had already been booked.

US Consulate - They have no info on one-way ticketing.

Airlines (United and Cathay) - Both stated that you may not board a one-way flight without a visa. Round-trip airfare must be purchased. I was even told by Cathay that I shouldn't have been allowed to even purchase a one-way without the proper documentation.

American Express Travel Services - possibly the worst group of individuals to ask, they gave me 18 different answers (slight exaggeration but my point is at least made)

In conculsion.....we are buying a fully refundable one-way (return) ticket which we will immediately return once KK.Carter is in the country safely....and in my arms (sorry all, i need the brownie points)