The KCRC was established in 1982 as a statutory public body to operate the KCR (now commonly known as East Rail),which was formerly built and operated by government.

• 九广铁路(现时普遍称为东铁)原由政府建造并营运，直至一九八二年，始由当时成立的法定公共机构－－九广铁路公司－－负责营运。