Logo
  • Home

頭條新聞 Headline News

FBI arrests realtor accused of surveilling Lai Ching-te’s son

The FBI has arrested a Chinese American woman for surveilling the son of Taiwan President Lai Ching-te in the US on behalf of China. The arrest took place at Los Angeles International Airport, where the suspect, called Zhang Wanying or Heather, was about to embark on a flight for Shanghai. According to federal court documents, the woman allegedly traveled to Seattle last September, hid near Lai Ting-yu’s home and photographed his family. She also allegedly sent their vehicle license plate information to Chinese officials via Chinese messaging app WeChat. Let’s hear more.

Karen Kuo
Taiwan Presidential Office Spokesperson
This is a classic case of transnational repression. We strongly condemn it. Such behavior should not be tolerated in the civilized world. Taiwan thanks US law enforcement for assisting and protecting our people, and we will continue working with the US and all our democratic partners to jointly combat this kind of illegal transnational repression.

Wang Ting-yu
Lawmaker
Her actions clearly violate the laws of the countries involved. The FBI even had its director personally announce the case this time. China’s long-arm reach, particularly its targeting of the overseas activities of the relatives of key Taiwanese political figures, is something the US is taking very seriously. US authorities have gathered substantial evidence, including communications, surveillance photographs, and an oath of allegiance in which she pledged loyalty to the People’s Republic of China.

FBI Director Kash Patel also took to social media, accusing the woman of surveilling the family of a foreign leader on US soil on behalf of the Chinese government. Patel questioned whether she thought she could simply board a flight and escape to Shanghai, saying that that was not going to happen. Zhang is accused of failing to register with the US Department of Justice as a foreign agent. If convicted under Section 951 of Title 18 of the US Code, she could face up to 10 years in prison.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#spy #china #us #taiwan #laichingte

Time：2026-10-05

最新消息 Latest News

Taiwan Presidents show support at Puma Shen campaign rally

An ocean wave took over the streets of Taipei on Sunday. The campaign headquarter opening of Taipei’s Mayoral Candidate Puma Shen drew a crowd of 120,000 fans in the streets. Overwhelmed with the support, Shen emotionally exclaimed, “I wish my mother could see this.” When he got on the stage, he quoted a famous line from the anime, “JoJo’s Bizarre Adenture,” and also appeared alongside his wife and daughter, speaking from the heart about making Taipei run smoothly.

Many small drops eventually make up the ocean, and that was the case on Sunday along Taipei’s Zhongshan North and South Roads; at the opening of Taipei’s DPP Mayoral Candidate Puma Shen’s headquarters. Some reports suggest over 120,000 fans showed up in the streets.

Legislator Rosalia Wu, who serves as Puma Shen’s campaign manager, was deeply moved backstage and tearfully embraced Legislator Chen Pei-yu. Shen quietly told Wu that he wished his mother was here to see this.

Puma Shen
Taipei Mayoral Candidate (DPP)
When I think about how far we’ve come, I can’t help but feel tears in my eyes. It’s like the wind being carried by ocean currents, and this is the wind of democracy.

As an avid anime fan, Shen once again quoted a famous line from the anime JoJo’s Bizarre Adventures, to describe the Ocean Current movement.

Puma Shen
Taipei Mayoral Candidate (DPP)
I cannot help but quote “JoJo” once again: the hymn of humanity is a hymn of courage, it is because we possess courage that we have made it this far.

With clear vision and no turbulence, Puma Shen is emerging as a favorable figure for the DPP despite the odds stacked against him. He’s even released a campaign song titled “Future Soon.”

President Lai Ching-te also made an appearance on Sunday, raising Shen’s hand in support.

Lai Ching-te
President
As of late, I’ve seen TV commentators claiming that when I nominated Puma Shen, the sole objective was to check Chiang Wan-an rather than winning, and that this goal has been achieved. Let me set the record straight: such claims are a form of cognitive warfare. As the party chairperson, when I nominated Puma Shen, my goal was precisely for him to win this election.

Not only the president, vice president, and premier take turns stepping up, but former President Tsai Ing-wen also made an appearance.

Lai and Tsai sharing the stage to rally for support remained the highlight of the event.

The event is being described online as an election-eve rally, featuring an impressive line-up of political figures. With less than two months remaining before elections, Puma Shen continues to pull out all the stops.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#pumashen #tsaiingwen #laichingte #taipeimayor #taiwanpresident

2026-10-05

Legendary TV host Kevin Tsai spotted at Puma Shen event

Legendary television host Kevin Tsai, best known for the talk show Kangsi Coming, rarely attends political events. But on Sunday, he was among the thousands of supporters at the inauguration of Puma Shen’s campaign headquarters in Taipei. Tsai kept a low profile, wearing a hat and a facemask, and holding Puma Shen merch. But still people, recognized him, including people on the other side of the strait. Chinese netizens called for a boycott online, and a Chinese EV brand, Leapmotor, took down all promotional content featuring Tsai. Let’s hear more.

Kevin Tsai (Oct. 4)
Television host
- I came to take a look.
- Do you support Puma Shen?
- I’d like to hear everyone’s views.
- Will you go to Chiang Wan-an’s events?
- If I had the chance to go visit every candidate, that’d be great.

Puma Shen
Taipei Mayoral Candidate (DPP)
Kevin Tsai clearly said he would like to check out all of the candidates, and see what each of them advocates for. I think that’s nothing special in a democratic society like ours. If people who do that were to be punished, that would be extremely unfair.

Chiang Wan-an
Taipei Mayor
Everyone is free to attend any political event. I urge Mainland China to respect Taiwan’s free and democratic way of life, and to not treat people differently due to their political views. I welcome Mr. Kevin Tsai to also attend the inauguration of our campaign headquarters. If he comes, he’ll be in the VIP area.

Tsai later responded to Chiang Wan-an in a social media post, saying that if he receives an invitation, he would be happy to attend the event to observe and learn. He even joked that he would do his best to follow the host’s preferred dress code and dress accordingly to help create the right party atmosphere. While the latest episode involving Tsai may have come as a surprise to some fans, others have praised what they call his intellectual integrity.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#taipei #election #pumashen #chiangwanan #taiwan

2026-10-05

Pomelo peel turned into household cleaner

In addition to making cute, festive hats over the Mid-Autumn Festival, pomelo peels have another use: cleaning. They contain limonene, a compound that can dissolve grease and grime on tough surfaces. Making a cleaning product from the peel is not only economical and resourceful, but it’s powerful enough to remove stubborn grease, even in the microwave.

Yeh Wei-hsiang
FTV reporter
Do you have any more pomelos at home? After eating them, don’t be in a rush to throw out the peel. It contains limonene, which has many uses.

After eating the pomelo, remove the white pith, but keep the peel, because it has limonene: an excellent cleaner.

Yang Hsien-ying
Household expert
We usually don’t recommend using an old pomelo. It’s better to use a fresh one.

Cut up the peel, put it in a jar and submerge it in alcohol, then cover it and leave it in a cool, dark place for a week. This DIY cleaning liquid is great for getting grease off microwaves, stoves, and pots.

Yang Hsien-ying
Household expert
We usually recommend using it on surfaces that don’t come into contact with food, like the hood of a stove or the outside of pots. I wouldn’t recommend using it to wash dishes. It can save you at least NT$1,000 a year.

It can also help clean the microwave. Put pomelo peel in a bowl of water and put it in the microwave for one minute. Then let the steam sit for a few minutes to soften the grime in the microwave.

Yang Hsien-ying
Household expert
When it’s microwaved, it will boil, so there will be steam. The steam will slowly soften any grime and bacteria in the microwave.

Remember to throw pomelo peel away with food waste, except in Keelung, Miaoli, and Hsinchu City, which classify the peel as trash. But before throwing it away, maximize its value by using it as a cleaner, saving money and leaving the home with a fresh citrus scent.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#pomelo #fruit #peel #recycle #reuse #MidAutumnFestival #MoonFestival #clean #cleaner #cleaning

2026-10-05

Man loses NT$200,000 after absent- mindedly putting cash on car roof

It’s easy to forget things when you’re in a rush. One man in Pingtung, surnamed Tseng, was so eager to get to work that he accidentally left a bundle of NT$200,000 in cash on top of his car, and drove away. He didn’t realize the money was missing until he was already on the freeway. Let’s hear more

Voice of Mr. Tseng’s wife
Husband lost NT$200,000
Men can’t be bothered to wear bags, so they just put everything in their pockets. When he was about to drive off, the cash in his pocket was annoying him, so he absent-mindedly put the money on the roof of the car. When he realized the cash was gone, we looked for it everywhere, in the bushes. I was about to give up. I was done.

Huang Yen-wei
Police officer
The cash was found on the onramp of National Freeway 3 at Kanding, and the owner has been notified to collect it.

The cash was on the roof of the car from the moment he got in the car to when he stopped at a gas station for a top-up. Even then, when the attendant was pumping his car, nobody noticed the money on top. It was only when the driver got on the freeway that he realized his pocket was feeling a little empty. After reviewing surveillance footage along his route, the cash was finally locate, on an on-ramp to National Freeway 3. By the time the money was found, seven hours had already passed, but even then every single bill was accounted for. To say that Mr. Tseng was relieved, is an understatement.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#forgetful #car #absentminded #cash #oops

2026-10-05

Elon Musk in talks with TSMC over chipmaking partnership

SpaceX CEO Elon Musk could be looking to team up with TSMC to solve one of his biggest headaches: securing enough chips for his growing empire of AI, robots, self-driving cars and rockets. Musk has announced plans for his own chipmaking project, but now reports suggest he’s in talks with TSMC about a potential partnership. And with TSMC reportedly considering a second US fab, possibly in Texas, the timing is raising plenty of eyebrows.

Elon Musk
SpaceX CEO
And we would like them to expand as quickly as they can and we will buy all of their chips. I have said these exact words to them.

Back in March, SpaceX CEO Elon Musk unveiled the Terafab project, a planned semiconductor fabrication plant that aims to secure a stable chip supply for the development of AI, self-driving cars, robots and rockets. Reports say Musk has been in talks with TSMC for a potential collaboration.

Musk tweeted on X that for now it’s “Just discussions,” adding that “Something may come of it.” The development comes hot in the heels of rumors that TSMC is considering establishing a second US manufacturing site in Texas. Though the chipmaker has not commented on the matter, there is a lot of speculation about a potential collab.

Wu Chin-jung
Tech company GM
Musk is not an expert in chip manufacturing, he’s an outsider. So he may think that partnering with TSMC would be the fastest option. Working with TSMC to make chips in the US would be much faster than building a fab himself.

But how would the two companies cooperate? One possibility is that TSMC would own and operate the facility and SpaceX would provide funding and commit to purchasing the chips. Another is that SpaceX would hold a majority stake, with TSMC providing its expertise and process technology. An expert says that’s not likely.

Wu Chin-jung
Tech company GM
If TSMC were to partner with Musk, TSMC would definitely have to hold the majority stake. I don’t think TSMC would simply provide manufacturing services. If that were the case, TSMC might as well build its own fab and supply him directly.

C.C. Wei (December 2024)
TSMC CEO
A few days ago, I spoke with the richest person in the world, and he told me he was focusing on multifunction robots, for his company’s future. He said his biggest concern was a shortage of chips. I told him not to worry. I said, “If you’re willing to pay, you’ll get your chips.”

Pay, and you’ll get what you want. Traditionally, TSMC has built fabs according to its own expansion plans, so building a facility specifically for a single customer would be at odds with its business model.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#tsmc #musk #spacex #semiconductor #chips

2026-10-05

Prices remain high across new foldable phone models

Phone brands are racing to release new foldable phones for the high-end market, with Apple releasing its first foldable iPhone this October. Meanwhile, Samsung is launching a model with new screen dimensions and Oppo is promoting its model’s advanced camera. But with prices starting at NT$60,000, it remains to be seen how many people will choose these flashy new phones.

Even drilling the screen leaves no scratches. The phone can be folded and unfolded repeatedly and is advertised to last 13 years. To show its strength, the company used the phone to pull rowing machines and lift kettlebells while unfolded.

With a 7.95-inch screen, it can use AI to summarize a video while watching it or use two apps at once through split-screen. Foldable phones are useful, but their bulky design, battery life, and camera capabilities remain major challenges for the market.

Mr. Yi
Tech expert
Its screen breaks easily, so repairs could be expensive, which can make people hesitant to buy it. They might not care about the initial expenditure, but would worry about the warranty and customer service after purchasing it.

Samsung’s Fold8 has a new 4:3 display ratio, Oppo’s N6 boasts impressive camera capabilities, the Honor V6 screen is only 4mm thick when unfolded, and the long-awaited foldable iPhone is only as big as a passport. But with all these phones priced at over NT$60,000, are they really worth it?

Member of public
Considering foldable phone
I’m not sure how many people use it or how long it lasts, because it’s foldable. I don’t think it’s more durable than a normal phone.

Member of public
Considers price carefully
If I could afford it, I’d like to try it. The screen is larger, and the iPhone model has lots of new functions. But it would depend on the price.

With innovative features, foldable phones are continuing to improve as technology develops, but their high price remains a barrier for many.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#iPhone #Apple #Samsung #Oppo #phone #foldable #foldablephone #new #camera #screen #price

2026-10-05

Selfie at level crossing nearly causes train collision

The wait is nearly over. Tainan’s underground railway project is nearing completion, which has led to some people throwing caution to the wind. Wanting to capture the perfect picture, some locals wandered onto the ground level crossing, narrowly missing oncoming trains. Police stated that trespassing could result in a fine of up to NT$50,000 and could constitute a public endangerment offense under the Criminal Code.

A thrill-seeking elderly man snuck onto the level crossing of the train and stood beside the train tracks to take photos, prompting the conductor of the Tze-Chiang Express train to sound the alarm.

The train screeched to a stop and the driver leaned out to check the cause. He quickly told the elderly man to back up.

Member of public
Disapproves of train enthusiasts
The trains will go underground, so many train enthusiasts go there to take photos. They shouldn’t do it, trespassing the crossing just to take pictures can endanger others as well.

Tainan’s Railway Underground Project is nearing completion, and the sight of trains passing through the level crossing is causing mayhem. Many train enthusiasts are flocking to the area to take photos disregarding their safety near the train tracks.

- Where do they take photographs?
- On the side, both sides, some will call you to come out

Chiang Yu-huang
Tainan Railway Police
According to Articles 57 and 70 of the Railway Act, pedestrians and vehicles are prohibited from trespassing on railway lines. Violators may be fined between NT$10,000 and NT$50,000

Similarly, this afternoon at Kaohsiung’s Gangshan Station, a passenger was reported to have asked the conductor to get off and take a picture of him with the Pokémon train.

Member of public
Concerned about train delays
If they cause delays just to take photos, then it is not really okay.

Member of public
Concerned about safety
They have their jobs, they might even help you take photos, and one careless mistake could lead to a major accident.

Taiwan Railways confirmed that the train conductor did get off the train, albeit not to take photos for passengers. It seems in frenzy for photos, passengers are neglecting basic safety and potentially breaking the law. They are encouraged to err on the side of caution if they want to keep their precious photos.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#trains #undergroundrailway #levelcrossing #taiwantransport #taiwantrains

2026-10-05

Thunder Tiger Corp. chief sounds alarm on Taiwan’s nascent drone industry

The war between Russia and Ukraine first showed the world the importance of drones to modern warfare, particularly for a weaker power in conflict with a much larger neighbor. Experts say Taiwan needs a flourishing drone industry. However, a leading domestic military drone manufacturer is sounding the alarm. Gene Su, the general manager of Thunder Tiger Corp., says he’s worried that government investment in the industry might not be stable and consistent, amid clashes with the opposition-dominated legislature, which would greatly impact research and development. He also points out that there is no regulatory body to oversee the industry in Taiwan. Let’s find out more.

Gene Su
Thunder Tiger Corp. general manager
Elon Musk’s company Starlink claims it won’t offer service to Taiwan. I’ve asked the chair of Chunghwa Telecom several times when we’ll have good low-Earth orbit satellites.

Gene Su, the general manager of Thunder Tiger Corp., a leading domestic military drone manufacturer, points out all the difficulties faced by Taiwanese manufacturers. For Taiwan to develop a “non-red supply chain,” three major challenges need to be overcome first.

Gene Su
Thunder Tiger Corp. general manager
For example, in Taiwan we have the Civil Aviation Administration to inspect manned aircraft, and we may have the NCC to inspect telecommunications, but drones, and the hundreds of chips inside drones, who regulates them? Otherwise, import and export manufacturers will have opportunities to attempt to “launder the country of origin,” etc.

The Legislative Yuan has passed a drone bill, budgeting NT$240 billion over six years through annual budgets, which has raised some concerns within the industry

Gene Su
Thunder Tiger Corp. general manager
For example, if I invest NT$100 million in tooling and amortize it over six years, I can gradually iterate and improve its performance. We hope the budget for each year will be consistent and continuous. Otherwise, manufacturers end up making A this year, B next year, and C the year after and continuous research and development and investment will not be stable.

The Ukraine-Russia war has set a precedent, showing drones have completely changed the face of modern military conflicts. Compared with other countries, Taiwan started developing military drones late. It is urgent for Taiwan to catch up with international trends.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#Thundertiger #Taiwandrones #LEOsatellites #dronebudget #nonredsupplychains #crossstrait #Taiwanchina

2026-10-05

Brand-new F-16V fighter jets delivered to Taiwan from US

On Friday, Taiwan welcomed the first delivery of the 66 F-16 fighter jets purchased from the US, under the “Peace Phoenix Soaring” project. The aircraft were originally scheduled for delivery starting in 2023. But the first two F-16s only arrived in Hawaii mid-August, and after a month-long stop there, they finally arrived in Chihhang Air Base in Taitung this afternoon. This marks Taiwan’s first delivery of brand-new fighter jets in 30 years. Let’s hear more.

The thundering sound of engines pierced the sky as two F-16 fighter jets touched down at the Air Force base in Taitung. Military enthusiasts outside the restricted area got a front row seat to this spectacle.

Military enthusiast
Watched the F-16 arrival
30 years ago, in 1996, I went to the US for training, also in a F-16. It’s been 30 years.

Enthusiasts were thrilled to see the fighter jets as this marked the first time in nearly 30 years that Taiwan’s Air Force received brand-new fighter jets.

Under this project, 66 F-16 fighter jets were purchased from the US, a purchase that was only approved in 2019 when Trump took office. Delivery was originally scheduled for 2023, but various delays resulted in only two aircraft departing from the US earlier this year. They officially landed in Taitung’s Air Base today, after spending a month in Hawaii.

Voice of Lieutenant General Yu Te-chung
Taiwan Air Force
The Air Force will carry out equipment acquisition and training according to plan, and gradually advance preparations to ensure that combat capabilities are formed.

Wellington Koo
Minister of National Defense
Of course, we won’t have only these two by year-end. I think subsequent deliveries will be planned in conjunction with the US. As for the electronic warfare system, I believe the manufacturer is already conducting some related hardware and software tests, because this new aircraft needs to be integrated with our existing ones.

Defense Minister Wellington Koo said there will be more deliveries this year.

The single-seat F-16Vs’ serial numbers are 6727 and 6728 of the F-16C/D Block 70, they have an extended service life of up to 12,000 flight hours, 50% greater performance than their predecessors. The new aircraft also integrates the APG-83 radar, upgraded mission computers, and avionics architecture. The manufacturer claims that this provides at least 40 years of service life for most air forces.

Regarding compensation for the delayed delivery, a DPP legislator stated that they are currently negotiating with the US.

Wang Ting-yu
Legislator
According to international arms sales regulations, there are no penalties for delays in deliveries between governments. Given the significant delay, our Air Force and Ministry of National Defense have protested to the US government, hoping to receive some compensation.

The first delivery of the F-16s has significantly enhanced Taiwan’s airspace defense capabilities.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#fighterjet #taiwanmilitary #F16 #aircraft #jet #USmilitary #arms

2026-10-02

Cabbie’s xenophobic outburst catches headlines in South Korea

A xenophobic outburst by a Taiwanese taxi driver has made headlines in South Korea. The incident apparently started due to a payment dispute, when a Korean woman in Kaohsiung asked her taxi driver to wait for her while she went to grab some cash. The cabbie then proceeded to take out her luggage from the trunk and violently throw it on the ground while saying that he “hated Koreans.” Though Korean media reported that prosecutors had closed the case without charges, Kaohsiung prosecutors say the investigation is still ongoing.

The passenger gets out, followed by the taxi driver, who plods his way to the trunk to hurl the suitcases heavily onto the ground. This shocking scene happened to a Korean woman visiting Kaohsiung.

Member of public
Shocked by attitude
It’s truly embarrassing. Since when did Taiwan become like this?

Member of public
Shocked by attitude
It’s terrible. And it happened to a foreign traveler visiting Kaohsiung. I wish they would have a better impression of Taiwan.

The incident took place at Cianjin District in late July. The Korean visitor had called a taxi via an app. After loading her luggage in the trunk, she realized she didn’t have enough cash, and asked the driver to wait a moment while she exchanged some money. But something got lost in translation. Right after the passenger got out of the car, the cabbie followed and went straight to the trunk to unload her luggage and throw it violently on the ground. The suitcases were damaged from the impact, and the driver allegedly said he “hated Koreans” and would “never accept Korean passengers.”

Member of public
Shocked at attitude
The cabbie crossed a line. It makes Taiwan look bad. Really. No matter what, you shouldn’t treat passengers like that.

Taxi driver
Commenting on incident
We should never behave that way. At our company, if we pull something like that, we’d be fired. He tossed the luggage out. It must be one of those independent taxi drivers. They don’t really have rules to follow.

The incident was picked up by Korean media, which reported that prosecutors had closed the case without charges. But the district prosecutor’s office says an investigation is still ongoing. Regardless of the legal consequences, it’s not a good look for Taiwan.

#korea #taiwan #travel #taxi #cabbie

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

2026-10-02

Cafe job ad sparks backlash over makeup, age and Size-S uniform

A café job ad has exploded into a discrimination scandal after netizens spotted a bizarre list of requirements. They included being a college student, wearing makeup to work, and apparently fitting into a women’s size-S uniform. The backlash was swift. Let’s hear more.

Member of public
Finds ad discriminatory
Doesn’t that go against discrimination laws in employment? They can’t openly say they are only looking to hire women.

Lee Fang-ching
Yilan Labor Affairs Department
Restricting applicants to university students could raise issues of age discrimination. And there could also be discrimination based on appearance or gender. These are all forms of employment discrimination, which would violate the Employment Service Act.

It turns out the café owner is from Korea, and wrote the job ad with the help of AI. He says he didn’t realize the wording could be in violation of Taiwan’s employment laws and says the wording got lost in translation. After realizing the controversy, he immediately took the post down and apologized, saying he was willing to take responsibility. Even so, the café could still face a fine of NT$300,000 to NT$1.5 million.

#employment #jobad #cafe #yilan #korea

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

2026-10-02

Japanese YouTuber sparks outrage over comments on Taiwanese food

A Japanese YouTuber living in Taiwan might have committed the greatest offense of all time…criticizing Taiwanese food. The Youtuber, who goes by Zorro, publicly expressed his dislike for Taiwan and criticized the food at night markets drawing intense criticism online. After investigations, he has been exposed for allegedly obtaining work and residence permits in Taiwan over three years ago under the title of “company manager,” but actually worked as a store clerk. The Taipei City Government has given him a fine of NT$30,000.

- What is this? The pickles are very sour and have an alcohol smell. I’m not eating that.

Wearing expressions of disgust, Zorro, a Japanese YouTuber, spat out the snacks he was trying Kaohsiung’s Liuhe Night Market. His disrespect of the food sparked outrage among locals. The controversy has also surfaced some violations of work permit regulations for foreigners in Taiwan.

According to publicly available information from the Taipei City Government, Zorro originally came to Taiwan with the title of “company manager,” with an employment period from Oct. 20, 2023 ending this month. The reality is harsher, Zorro was simply not a manager. When the store underwent inspection in August, he admitted on the spot that he sold goods and handled the cashier desk like a regular clerk.

Chang Ching-han
FTV reporter
It seems, he applied for a work permit to come to Taiwan three years ago as a company manager. However, when I visited his shop on Dihua Street, I saw that he was just taking care of the shop, which is inconsistent with his application.

Although, he argued to the inspectors that he was short-staffed over the summer which is why he was helping out more at the store, the officials were not convinced and slapped him with a fine of NT$30,000 in accordance with regulations. Still, Zorro appealed, but the appeal was rejected.

- If its yummy, I’ll say its yummy.

Just last month, Zorro was happy to take an interview with FTV at the store entrance, but this time, given the violation of work and residence regulations, he was unwilling to speak with media and even called the police on us.

Zorro facing online backlash for criticizing Taiwanese food is the least of his concerns, he now faces issues with residency as his permit is set to expire on the 19, and it may not be a smooth extension.

#yuhorii #yuholy #japanese #influenceroutrage #nightmarket #stinkytofu

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

2026-10-02

Big-box American retailer shuttle bus ridership plummets

Back in July, shoppers flocked to the new outlet of a popular big-box American retailer in Kaohsiung’s Asia Bay. The situation got so out of hand, that the city government ended up asking the company to implement traffic control measures and start free shuttle bus services. But only a few months later, the shuttle buses are more like ghost buses.

Ridership has plummeted to just 20% or 30% of what it used to be in the summer. On weekdays, the vehicles are pretty much empty. Shoppers say they simply prefer to drive to the outlet themselves, without having to keep track of the shuttle bus schedules. Since the buses are no longer needed, some say they just should be stopped. The city government says it will evaluate the situation, to curb wasting resources without sacrificing shoppers’ convenience.

#shuttlebus #shopping #transport #walkablecity #publictransport

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

2026-10-02

Baishatun Temple builds capsule hotel for pilgrims and tourists

The annual Baishatun Matsu pilgrimage, which draws hundreds of thousands of people each year, is getting a major upgrade. As part of a NT$520 million three-year investment for a second dormitory, the Baishatun Gongtian Temple built a first-of-its-kind capsule hotel, with some rooms even offering ocean views. It’s perfect for pilgrims and tourists traveling along Taiwan’s west coast.

This is a new capsule-style hotel for pilgrims at the Baishatun Gongtian Temple.

It’s great for one person. It’s very comfortable.

It’s quite nice for a capsule hotel, as each tiny room has a vent for AC, shelves, and a curtain at the front for privacy.

- One person in each, like crawling into a cave.
- What do you think?
- It’s not bad! It’s the first time I’ve seen it. I like it.

Hung Wen-hua
Temple chairman
There are 54 capsule rooms, 26 two-person rooms, 26 three-person rooms, and 30 four-person rooms.

This is Taiwan’s first capsule hotel at a temple, with 54 individual capsule rooms designed for young backpackers and solo pilgrims offered at affordable prices.

Lin Hsing-fu
Temple secretary
There’s a lot of demand for accommodation along the coast. When we were building the second pilgrim dormitory, we planned the capsule hotel for individual visitors and tourists to use.

Miaoli’s Baishatun Gongtian Temple invested NT$520 million to build this new accommodation. It has a beautiful environment, with some ocean-view rooms where guests can enjoy beautiful sunsets.

Lin Hsing-fu
Temple secretary
We hope to work with Yu Da University of Science and Technology to upgrade our service quality, so that people can get to know Miaoli and Tongxiao Township better.

The new accommodation is a great spot to stay for pilgrims and any tourists traveling along Miaoli’s coast.

#Miaoli #Temple #Matsu #Mazu #Baishatun #pilgrimage #accomodation #tourist #travel #capsule #capsulehotel #pilgrim

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

2026-10-02

Old building tiles crash down inches away from scooter rider

Not keeping up with the upkeep of aging buildings can come with disastrous consequences. And not just for residents, but also for passersby. A shocking incident was captured on camera in Taichung, where a huge block of tiles and concrete came loose from a building’s façade and came crashing down on the busy street below. The debris fell just inches away from a scooter rider that was driving by. Let’s hear more.

Voice of member of public
Shocked at incident
Wow! They almost crushed him! They nearly fell on the scooter! Wow!

Member of public
Is wary of old buildings
You should keep some distance from old buildings covered in tiles. Walk on this side, not over there.

Member of public
Commenting on incident
The firefighters came, and the police came. It’s the first time something like that happened in nearly 20 years.

Building Committee Head
Taichung
A block this wide peeled off from the façade and came crashing down. We called a tile setter to take a look. It has to be fixed, it’s so dangerous. Safety is important.

The tiles fell down onto the road with so much force that they even bounced back. They narrowly missed a car and a scooter, which were forced to brake abruptly to avoid getting crushed. The building is located on Shengli 8th Street in Tanzi District, and is thought to be around 30 years old. The relevant authorities urge proprietors in older buildings to keep up with maintenance and prevent incidents like this.

#tiles #building #maintenance #taiwan #taichung

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

2026-10-02

Discarded batteries cause fires in two separate Hualien trash trucks

Two garbage truck fires broke out on the same day in Hualien’s Ji’an Township, both caused by lithium batteries thrown away by residents that ignited under pressure. Electronics that contain lithium batteries like power banks cannot be thrown away with the regular trash. Before they’re recycled, they must be prepared and handed over separately to a sanitation worker—never mixed in with other recyclables—to prevent an accident like the one seen in Ji’an.

White smoke billows from the back of a trash truck as it rushes to the lot in front of a fire station. The driver dumps all the trash onto the ground and works with firefighters to spray the smoking pile down with a firehose.

These were the culprits: charred lithium batteries and gas canisters. Items like these easily explode or ignite when crushed in a trash compactor. While out on a collection, sanitation workers in Hualien’s Ji’an Township noticed smoke rising from the back of their truck and immediately drove to a nearby fire station for help. After it was extinguished, they resumed collection. But then later that same day, another truck along the same route encountered another battery fire and had to go to the same exact fire station.

Chen Sheng-feng
Renli fire station chief
Duty firefighters at our station immediately deployed hoses to help cool down the smoking items. After confirming there was no further danger, they helped clear the area.

Two very similar fires happened on the same day! But fortunately, thanks to the professional response, both were quickly extinguished. Small appliances and electronics like power banks and pressurized gas canisters shouldn’t be thrown away carelessly.

Chou Tse-sheng
Ji’an Township sanitation chief
Since pressurized gas canisters are dangerous, we encourage people to avoid puncturing them yourself. Please separate them from other recyclables, and hand them over directly to our crew so we can dispose of them properly.

Gas canisters should be bagged separately, insulated, labeled clearly, and handed over directly to a sanitation worker. For lithium batteries, the ports and ends should be covered with nonconductive tape first. Proper waste management not only protects the environment, but also keeps sanitation workers safe.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#batteries #trashtruck #batteryfire #safety #PSA #Hualien #recycling #wastemanagement #sanitationworkers

2026-10-02

Tree branch ‘swallows’ utility wire in Pingtung

Local residents spotted a rare spectacle along County Highway 187 in Pingtung: an electric wire fully encased in a tree branch. The cable was tightly enclosed in a section of wood suspended in mid-air, leading people to wonder whether it was a new kind of installation art. Turns out it was entirely natural. An expert suspects that the tree’s branches grew too close to the wires. Fearing it might be dangerous, the cable TV operator who owns the lines removed the branches.

This electric wire is firmly encased inside a tree branch. From a distance, it looks like someone hung a tree trunk directly onto the cable.

From up close, you can even see small green leaves growing from the branch. This is no art project, but a living, completely natural phenomenon.

- Wow, it’s so strange. I’ve lived this long and never seen anything like it. It’s a first for me.

The section of County Highway 187 in Pingtung near land owned by Taisugar is lined with trees on either side, interspersed with utility poles. The thick foliage almost conceals the cables, which appear to belong to a cable TV provider. Over the years, the branches became closely entwined with the wires.

Lo Kai-an
NPUST Department of Forestry associate professor
A tree is a living organism that will continue to grow, adding to its volume by the year. The cause was likely that the wire and the branch rested against each other, and over time, the branch gradually enveloped it.

Experts say it must have taken many years for the tree to completely enclose the cable. Since the branch and the wire became completely inseparable, workers trimming the tree likely cut off both ends and left this small section behind, unintentionally creating this amusing mid-air installation.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#oddity #Pingtung #trees #cableTV #unintentionalart

2026-10-02

Gem-faced civet family crosses Miaoli main road

An adorable family of animals were recently seen crossing a road in Toufen, Miaoli. People thought they were cats, but it was actually a group of gem-faced civets! Miaoli’s Agriculture Department said it’s not uncommon to see civets in the city, but people shouldn’t touch, feed, frighten, or chase them, and they should report it to local animal authorities.

A family of animals was spotted crossing the road in Miaoli. They aren’t cats or foxes, but gem-faced civets.

The mother civet leads her three pups across the road, but the constant traffic scares them back to the grass on the median.

Eventually, they safely made it across. People were surprised to see gem-faced civets crossing the road in Toufen, Miaoli.

Member of public
Has never seen one
Generally speaking, it’s really rare to see one. I’ve lived this long and never seen one.

Member of public
Considering dangers
It seems like they come out at night. I think it might be dangerous for people on the road. The authorities should come handle it.

Miaoli’s Agriculture Department said gem-faced civets are nocturnal and their population has been rising in recent years, so it’s not uncommon to see them in the city.

Voice of Tsai Cheng-hsin
Miaoli Agriculture Department deputy director
We shouldn’t touch, feed, frighten, or chase them, and should report it to the authorities to deal with.

People should not interact with gem-faced civets and report it if they see any in the city, so that these animals can co-exist peacefully with humans.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#animal #wild #civet #gemfacedcivet #animalfamily #pup #city #nocturnal #animalcrossing

2026-10-02

Taichung business washes city ambulances for free

A car wash in Taichung is washing the city’s 108 ambulances for free, even introducing a washing machine capable of reaching the ambulances’ high roofs. The business wanted to support first responders by sparing them from having to do the work themselves.

Chang Chiao-yi
FTV reporter
Any car wash can wash cars and scooters, but this one in Taichung even installed an automatic machine specialized for ambulances.

After an ambulance drives into position and puts on the handbrake, the automatic washing machine starts to work.

It thoroughly washes and rinses the ambulance, leaving it sparkling clean. This car wash washes the city’s ambulances entirely free of charge.

Yan Kun-hsi
Entrepreneur
A lot of car washing machines in our business can’t service tall vehicles like ambulances, so we specially introduced a smart washing machine for tall vehicles, hoping to show support for our firefighters.

The business specially introduced an automatic washing machine that can reach an ambulance’s high roof, plus a smart license plate recognition system that knows the plates of the city’s 108 ambulances, offering them free service.

Yan Kun-hsi
Entrepreneur
We turned the previous kind of one-time charity deal into a long-term service. If civilian ambulances want to come here, we will also offer them discounts, but they need to give us their license plate.

Equipment engineer
Uses technology for charity
This is one way in which technology can be used to support public welfare. We hope to use modern technology to drive charitable activities.

This car wash supports first responders by washing ambulances for free, taking just one of their challenging tasks off their hands.

#carwash #ambulance #firefighter #paramedic #firstresponder #charity #publicwelfare #free

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

2026-10-02