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Yuck! Freeloaders put half-eaten beef sushi back on sample tray

Picky eaters left a sushi chef heartbroken, after helping themselves to free torched beef sushi samples, and putting their half-eaten leftovers back on the tray. The incident happened at a Japanese food festival held by a shopping center in Taoyuan. The sushi vendor was so distraught by what he saw, that he shared the story online. Netizens could also not believe the entitlement, and condemned the inconsiderate freeloaders.

A generous slice of beef covers the ball of vinegar rice below. Kissed with a torch and garnished with spring onions… Simply mouthwatering!

A shopping center in Taoyuan is celebrating Japanese cuisine with more than 30 brands and about a dozen chefs cooking up fresh food. Surely nobody would spoil the party, right?

Chen Yen-lin
FTV reporter
A participating shop serving up free torched beef sushi samples was assailed by a picky diner who did not seem to like rice.

Chef
Beef sushi stand
Just think of all the people who have nothing to eat. But this customer just placed all of the rice back. So unhygienic! He didn’t bother to put it to the side. He just put it back on the sample tray! It’s unsanitary and such a waste.

Let’s check the facts. This is what the sample tray looked like, with one dish containing just rice and no beef. The stand operator posted the photo online, saying “My heart was truly broken seeing the tray looking like this… Someone ate the torched beef on top. If it hadn’t been for another customer who pointed it out to us... Not in our wildest dreams would we have imagined something like this would happen.” The rice, made with love, was discarded without a second thought, leaving the inconsolable vendor lost for words. Sadly, it didn’t just happen once.


Voice of Tseng Yi-ching
Sushi shop operator
We were very worried about hygiene. After all, it’s the leftovers someone ate. We don’t know if they are sick, or if they have something you could catch. Several people did the same thing.

Member of public
Would eat whole thing
I would eat the whole thing. If not, then don’t take it. Don’t waste food.

Member of public
Would confront perpetrator
Who would even eat the leftovers when someone already ate half of it? I would’ve called them out. So inconsiderate!

People at the event were indignant at the incident. But the sushi vendor has come up with a solution so that only those who truly treasure food can get a bite. Until Aug. 19, the beef sushi samples will still be free, but they won’t be put on a platter for anyone to grab and go. Instead, staff will hand them out one by one so food wasters back off.

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

#sushi #beef #japanese #food #sample #inconsiderate #classlesss #mindyourmanners

Time：2026-08-12

最新消息 Latest News

Oil spill deathtrap causes 7 scooter crashes in just 1 hour

As if Taiwan’s road weren’t already dangerous enough, an oil spill at a busy Taipei intersection made things worse on Tuesday evening. The slippery death trap caused seven scooters to come crashing to the ground in just one hour, at the crossroads between Chengde Road and Zhongzheng Road in Shilin. Let’s hear more.

Lu Chao-ting
Police officer
Seven scooter riders were injured after their scooters slipped and came crashing to the ground. We’re reviewing security camera footage to determine the origin of the oil spill.

Chang Ching-han
FTV reporter
Traffic is very heavy at the intersection, even though it’s not rush hour right now. That’s why the oil spill caused seven scooter crashes in less than an hour.

Fortunately, the scooter riders only sustained minor abrasions, and none are in life-threatening condition. As for the oil leak, police are reviewing surveillance footage to identify the driver, who could face a fine of between NT$3,000 and NT$18,000. Fortunately, none of the victims ended up under another vehicle, or the incident could have ended in tragedy.

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 #oil #slippery #messy #mess #taiwannews

2026-08-12

2 Chinese men in custody after crossing Taiwan Strait in dinghy

Two Chinese nationals have been taken into custody after allegedly crossing the Taiwan Strait in a rubber dinghy and illegally entering Taiwan. The incident dates back to July 24, when a member of the public discovered the dinghy near the northern breakwater of Taipei Port in New Taipei’s Bali District. Inside were two cans of gasoline and numerous items bearing simplified Chinese characters. The two men were arrested six days later, on July 30. They claimed they had gotten lost at sea while fishing, but authorities were not convinced. Their arrival just days before the start of Taiwan’s Han Kuang military exercises has raised concerns over how they managed to make the crossing undetected. Let’s hear more.

Ma Sheng-chieh
FTV reporter
The two Chinese nationals set off from Fujian Province in China and traveled to Taipei Port on a rubber dinghy. They say they got lost at sea, but it’s not looking like a likely story.

Huang Cheng-wei
Coast Guard Administration
The two Chinese nationals suspected of entering Taiwan illegally have been detained on court orders. The case has been referred to prosecutors for investigation.

Su Tzu-yun
Institute for National Defense and Security Research
It could be that China is conducting a test. When they time comes, they could send special forces this way to carry out infiltration operations and sabotage.

Voice of Shen Ming-shih
Institute for National Defense and Security Research
We should consider the incident from the angle of national security. There is a possibility that China could try to gather intelligence regarding specific exercises and targets during the Han Kuang exercises. I think that possibility is increasingly likely.

The pair were Mr. Luan aged 35, and Mr. Yu aged 44. They said that they had gotten lost out at sea after setting off on a fishing trip from Fujian Province across the strait. After arriving at Taipei Port, they made their way to Taoyuan’s Chaoyang朝陽 Forest Park, where they lived and slept until their arrest on July 30. When they were caught, they were carrying cash in New Taiwan dollars, suggesting they may have set off from China with the intention of arriving in Taiwan.

#taiwan #illegalmigration #china #taiwanstrait #infiltration #taipei #newtaipei #taoyuan

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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2026-08-11

Taoyuan airport imposes new rules, with fines up to NT$25,000

If you’re planning an overseas summer vacation, take note. Since August, new rules have been in effect at the international airport in Taoyuan. Any motorist parked or loitering in the drop off/pick up zone for more than three minutes will be fined up to NT$1,200. Furthermore, placing standing signs, suitcases or other clutter in the arrival hall blocking traffic is also now prohibited. Fines for these violations stretch up to NT$25,000. Let’s find out more.

Outside the airport terminal’s pick-up and drop-off zone, a long line of cars is waiting. Every vehicle is picking up or dropping off passengers—some are loading luggage into trunks, while others are squeezing into the back seat with their bags. But be aware that the Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport’s smart enforcement cameras are now officially active, so you’d better be quick. If you stop for more than three minutes and get caught on camera, it will be considered a violation and you’ll be fined.

Airport taxi operator
Thinks fine system is reasonable
Three minutes is about right. As long as they book in advance and are waiting for cars, it’s fine. As professionals, we know that we only arrive after the customer has made a booking and comes outside. But many ordinary people don’t know this and will be waiting there early.

Macau tourist
Thinks fine system is reasonable
My timing will be calculated well, and I won’t be waiting there for that long, so I actually think it’s okay.

Whether three minutes is enough is a matter of opinion. As for violations, fines of up to NT$1,200 can be imposed according to the traffic management act.

In addition to fines for motorists that stop for too long to pick up or drop off passengers, the airport has also tightened regulations surrounding people meeting passengers inside the terminals. They are not allowed to use standing signs or put down suitcases or other clutter when they meet passengers. Violators can be fined up to NT$25,000.

Hotel airport transfer provider
Commenting on the new system
Previously, our hotel had a front desk—meaning we had a dedicated lounge area. So when we did airport pickups, after meeting guests here, we would all head over there. But later on, because of the pandemic, the airport terminal stopped renting those spaces to us. That’s what led to the current situation being a bit more chaotic.

This veteran airport pick-up operator says that they used to have dedicated arrival counters for tourists to find for themselves, but these were removed due to the pandemic, leading to the current chaotic situation. He’s hoping the authorities won’t just rely on fines, but will implement better planning to solve the root of the problem.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
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2026-08-11

Taipei Main Station to lose beloved checkered flooring

An iconic piece of Taipei Main Station is about to disappear, according to the renovation plans of its new operator, Shin Kong Mitsukoshi.

The most shocking redesign will take place in the main lobby, where the famous black-and-white checkerboard flooring will be completely removed. A 600-inch LED screen will be installed on one of the walls, to display scenes of Taiwan’s landscape and culture to travelers. It will also play sporting events when they happen, so that everyone can cheer on for Team Taiwan indoors. The first phase of the revamp will add sensors to the public toilets for better management. In addition, an escalator is being planned to connect the Basement level directly with the second floor. All in all the revamp will take 2 years and 8 months.

#taipei #taipeimainstation #trainstation #iconic #checkers #urbanism #gathering

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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2026-08-11

Education crisis deepens as teachers face mounting pressure

The hit Korean drama Teach You a Lesson has sparked discussion about issues within the South Korean school system, such as bullying, overbearing parents, and a decline in faculty authority. Similar issues exist in Taiwan, with an FTV investigation finding that 65 teachers died by suicide from 2020 to 2024. Teachers say workloads are heavy and that school affairs committees have become a tool for unreasonable complaints by students and parents.

Former students fill a funeral hall to bid farewell to their beloved teacher. Back in May, a Kaohsiung elementary-school teacher fell to his death on campus, shocking the community.

Huang Hsiang-hsien
Teachers’ union acting chair
There were two classes that were impossible to manage.

The teacher had taught for 33 years, dedicating his life to education and inspiring countless students. But it seems he was under immense pressure due to issues with discipline in his classes.

Lee Ya-wen
Kaohsiung Teachers’ Union chair
All the teachers at this school face enormous pressure when it comes to disciplining students, because parents make unreasonable complaints all the time. When parents get angry, they don’t just report the homeroom teacher, they also report the student affairs director involved in handling the case.

Teachers not only have to deal with students and parents who file complaints at the slightest issue, but the school affairs committee has also become a tool for students and parents to repeatedly report teachers.

Hsieh Ssu-hua
Middle-school teacher
I just asked him if he wasn’t practicing math as much, and even though this was just to better understand him, it made his father very angry. His father said my question would destroy the child’s life. Then a committee member told me that I had been reported so many times that if not even one was substantiated, parents would feel the committee was siding with the teachers.

Lee Ya-wen
Kaohsiung Teachers’ Union chair
The school affairs committee is being abused. It’s become a haven for unreasonable complaints. If I wanted to target a teacher, even without evidence or facts, I could use AI to make up a story and file a complaint against them, and they would still be investigated.

More and more teachers are getting fed up with the education system and choosing to leave. Taiwan is now facing a shortage of teachers, and its education system is in danger of collapsing. How to solve this issue remains a major challenge.

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

#education #teacher #teacherrights #Taiwan #Korea #TeachYouaLesson #complaints #stress #pressure #teachershortage

2026-08-11

Police officer saves life of man who collapsed at red light

A police officer was at the right place at the right time to save a life in a recent incident in Taipei. A scooter rider that had been waiting a red light collapsed to the ground, apparently due to a medical problem. He lost his breathing and his pulse.

Fortunately for him, officer Wang from the Xiyuan Police Station was directing traffic at the intersection. She immediately called 119, and began performing CPR on the man, until paramedics arrived at the scene. The man was rushed to the hospital, where he regained his vital signs and his condition stabilized.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
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#police #cpr #medical #traffic #warden

2026-08-11

Hualien and MIT REAP forum puts county on international innovation map

From agriculture to cutting-edge technology, Hualien is looking to put itself on the global innovation map. A new two-day forum backed by the Hualien County Government and MIT’s Regional Entrepreneurship Acceleration Program is bringing together local industries, universities, research institutions and startups, with the goal of turning the county’s agricultural strengths into new business opportunities. The initiative covers everything from AI-powered healthcare to life sciences, as Hualien looks to build a homegrown innovation ecosystem and connect local ideas with international markets.

An array of crystal clear display bottles showcase a wide range of agricultural materials, including rice husk charcoal, mineral phosphorous and dark granular fertilizer. This is the Hualien REAP Forum, hosted by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Regional Entrepreneurship Acceleration Program under the guidance of the Hualien County Government. The forum kicked off on Monday at the Parkview Hotel in Hualien.

Hsu Chen-wei
Hualien County Commissioner
With agriculture as our starting point, we’re driving innovation, to a wellbeing economy and a whole ecosystem that puts Hualien on the world map for startups.

The forum integrated methodology from the MIT REAP, bringing together resources from local industry, government, academia and research to create a support system that nurtures innovation and growth-oriented businesses in Hualien. Covering topics such as AI-powered healthcare and innovative ecosystems in the life sciences, the forum features keynote speeches, opportunities for regional exchanges and an MOU signing ceremony.

Hsu Chen-wei
Hualien County Commissioner
We at the Hualien County Government are bringing together industry, academia and research. We have a strong healthcare system, with institutions such as the Tzu Chi Hospital and the Mennonite Christian Hospital. We have top universities including National Dong Hwa University and Tzu Chi University, and institutions such as Academia Sinica and the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology. All these are working together with local industry players and startups.

Hualien hopes that the forum will drive innovation locally ranging from agriculture to high technology, and make itself a space in international markets.

#hualien #mit #mitreap #innovation #technology #agriculture

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
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2026-08-11

Taiwan schoolkids win gold at world choir contest despite China protests

Taiwanese schoolchildren sang their way to victory in Sweden at the prestigious 2026 World Choir games, dubbed the Choir Olympics. But although their victory was a huge reason to celebrate, it was not without its setbacks. Before the contest, the choir of young singers put on a street performance in Denmark, where they showed the national flag of Taiwan. That did not sit well with China, who lodged a protest with the organizers of the competition. Let’s hear more.

Voice of Wei Hsiang-ying
Dacun Elementary School
They saw our photo and reported us to the organizers, and lodged a protest. But the organizers of course said it was not a problem, saying that, in the world of music, we are all friends.

The schoolkids were not put back by China’s shenanigans, and prevailed to bag the gold medal in the Open Competition, filling the auditorium with songs from Taiwan. The school says the choir respected the competition’s rules at all times, which state that the national flag of Taiwan could not be shown during the actual competition. They only showed it during a street performance in a different country, before the competition had even started. A teacher says that participating in the event was a form of diplomacy for Taiwan, which somehow became a major issue troubling China.

#choir #choral #taiwan #china #angelical #voice #singing #sweden #denmark

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
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2026-08-11

Retiree reclaims lost envelope with NT$30,000 after seven months

At the beginning of the year, a retired military instructor in Chiayi’s Minxiong Township accidentally left an envelope with NT$30,000 in a duck soup restaurant. The owner handed the money over to the police, but received it back six months later after no one came to claim it. But by chance, the owner was able to find the person, and could finally return the money. Grateful for the gesture, the man donated a portion of the money to charity in the shop owner’s name to pay forward her act of kindness.

Hsu Kun-cheng, a retired military instructor from Sieh Chih Vocational High School in Minxiong Township, rushed back to this duck soup restaurant to meet the kind-hearted owner.

Back in January, he left this exact envelope at the restaurant. As soon as she discovered it had NT$30,000 inside, she knew the owner must be frantic to get it back.

- I’m so glad you came back for it! Knowing you couldn’t find it made me anxious for you.

Although the envelope had a name on it, the owner didn’t know him at all. She turned it into the police station, but since it wasn’t claimed for six months, she got it back. By law, the money now belonged to the store. But the owner had no intention of keeping it for herself. She kept searching for the owner, and resolved to donate it if she couldn’t find him.

Friend of Hsu Kun-cheng
Was asked about envelope
The owner showed me this exact envelope and asked whether I know anyone named Kun-cheng.

Restaurant owner
Took envelope to police
I figured the person who lost it would be frantic to get it back and go to the police station. But he never went there to find it.

After hearing the news, Hsu Kun-cheng went in person to retrieve the envelope, with a plan to pass on the owner’s kindness.

- If you couldn’t find it, you planned to donate the money?
- That’s right.
- Right. So I’ll make the donation on your behalf.

Seven months later, the envelope was finally reunited with its owner, with a portion of the cash destined for charity. This heartwarming act of goodwill has since continued to inspire local charities throughout Minxiong Township.

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

#Chaiyi #charity #heartwarming #kindness #lostandfound #payitforward

2026-08-11

Lost dog finds own way to police station, has heartwarming reunion with owner

A Yorkshire terrier in Kaohsiung’s Cijin recently snuck out the front door when his owner wasn’t looking and got lost. But somehow, he was able to find the police station, where the officers took him in. The panicked owner came rushing in looking before long for help. As soon as she saw her dog there safe and sound, she broke down in tears, stunned that her pup knew where to go.

A woman bursts into a police station and breaks down into tears. It’s because she saw her beloved lost dog sitting politely inside, safe and sound.

- Why did you run away?
- Where did you lose him?
- He ran out of the house.

Scooping the dog into her arms, a huge weight was lifted off, and she could no longer hold back her emotions. As if knowing his mom came to find him, the dog couldn’t stop showing his affection, either.

- I just wondered if he could be here. He came to the station all by himself.

She could hardly believe that her dog would report himself missing. This five-year-old Yorkie named Didi staged an escape, taking advantage of an open door to sneak out. He got more lost the further he got, eventually making it to the police station 200 meters away to look for help. He slowly peeked inside, almost as if telling the officers, “I’m lost!”

Ms. Kuo
Dog owner
I didn’t think he’d be smart enough to come to the police station on his own. My family also couldn’t believe it. How did he know where to go? We always tell him not to go outside, because if he does, he won’t be able to find Mom and she’ll worry to death.

Ms. Kuo dotes on Didi like a child and chats with him often. Maybe he really did understand her, and knew he shouldn’t make her worry.

This incredibly intuitive dog reported himself missing after a half hour, and was able to enjoy a heartwarming reunion with his family.

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

#dog #pet #Yorkie #Kaohsiung #petreunion #cutepets #policereport #smartanimal

2026-08-11

Classic song ‘Any Wine Bottles for Sale’ used for recycling truck in Pingtung

There are two songs that everyone in Taiwan hears daily thanks to the ubiquitous garbage truck: “Maiden’s Prayer” and “Für Elise.” But in Pingtung’s Chaozhou Township, there’s another song that gets residents out of their homes, trash bags in hand. That song is the classic “Any Wine Bottles for Sale,” used for the recycling truck. These days, it’s a reminder nearly exclusive to Chaozhou.

“Maiden’s Prayer” is probably the most common song in Taiwan, heard every time the garbage truck comes by. But in Pingtung’s Chaozhou Township, there’s another song that residents have grown up listening to.

As soon as residents hear this song, they know it’s time to take out the recycling.

Resident
Chaozhou
I’ve been hearing this song since I was a kid. It reminds me to take out the trash.

Resident
Chaozhou
Whenever people hear this, they know the truck is coming and it’s time to take out recycling.

The melody played by this recycling truck is the Taiwanese classic “Any Wine Bottles for Sale.” If you can hear it, Chaozhou residents will be close by, bags of recycling at the ready.

Chu Yu-hsun
Chaozhou neighborhood warden
Everyone is very familiar with this song. We hope that by using this music, it can help people to recycle.

Wang Chien-yuan
Chaozhou Township Office chief secretary
We use this song for our recycling trucks because it’s familiar to people. Of course, we aren’t selling the recycling. We’re collecting it back here.

In the old days, people used to miss the recycling truck because it didn’t play any sound. So in 2003, the EPA made a rule allowing local governments to choose whether to play music or not. Although the music isn’t exclusive to Chaozhou, it remains a fond memory for people who grew up here.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
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#Pingtung #recyclingtruck #garbagetruck #garbagetruckmusic #AnyWineBottlesforSale #Taiwanesemusic

2026-08-11

Care workers at children home are severely overworked

Children entering child and youth welfare homes are severely traumatized. Their residential care workers often act as their “surrogate parents,” working 24-hours around the clock. However, spare a thought for these diligent and loving caregivers. They are also in need of care. Experts say that they are often overworked, exhausted and government funding is insufficient. Let’s find out more.

These children were happily playing cards in a circle. It was originally just for fun. But then one got angry and cried because it got too competitive. When dealing with children with high emotional tension, it is necessary to comfort and guide them.

Ya Hui
Youth and children’s home residential care worker
Some children will suddenly wake up in the middle of the night, crying loudly, and then they might rush to our staff room and bang on the door. I think that when you first start working here, you’ll be quite nervous at night.

Placement facilities serve as a new safe haven for many children who may have experienced domestic violence, sexual assault, or the death or incarceration of their parents. Their "surrogate parents"—residential care workers—must accompany them 24 hours a day to prevent conflict, with their daily lives tightly bound to the children’s. These combined pressures leave residential care workers physically and mentally exhausted.

Hsu Yu
Youth and children’s home CEO
Right now, the only strategy we see from the government to address this issue is throwing money at it—and not even significant funding, just a pittance. As a result, so many of our team members arrive full of enthusiasm, only to leave deeply scarred.

Wen Kuo-shih
Child and youth care NGO
We truly believe that if we take good care of caregivers, children will have a better chance. So we should take care of caregivers first, instead of expecting love to generate all their power.

The professional value and labor dignity of these residential care workers deserve sufficient support and respite. Only then can these invisible parents reliably catch every child and tighten the safety net for youth.

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

#abusedchildren #childrenshomes #Taiwanesechildren #childrenswelfare #Taiwanesewelfare

2026-08-11

Backlash after Hiroshima leaves Taiwan out of diplomatic seating

A diplomatic snub at Nagasaki’s atomic bomb memorial is sparking outrage in Taiwan and Japan. Taiwan’s representative to Japan, Lee Yi-yang, skipped the ceremony after learning he would be seated outside the diplomatic section. That’s despite Taiwan receiving diplomatic treatment just days earlier in Hiroshima. Now, critics are accusing Nagasaki of putting its ties with China ahead of its friendship with Taiwan, turning a dispute over seats into a question of national dignity.

Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae laid a wreath at Nagasaki’s Atomic Bomb Peace Memorial Ceremony, calling for nuclear disarmament and world peace. Taiwan’s representative to Japan, Lee Yi-yang, declined to attend the event after learning he would not be seated with diplomatic delegations. Taiwan’s Fukuoka Office director-general attended in his place.

Akio Yaita, head of the Indo-Pacific Strategy Think Tank, slammed Nagasaki City on Facebook, accusing the city of staying silent as China expands its nuclear arsenal while belittling Taiwan, a staunch supporter of Japan. He said the problem went beyond seating arrangements, affecting Taiwan’s national dignity and warning that hurting a true friend would only benefit Japan’s adversaries.

Only a few days earlier at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony, Taiwanese officials had been seated in the area for diplomatic delegations. But at Nagasaki, Taiwan was placed in the “overseas groups” section meant for civic groups. Japanese netizens were outraged. One user wrote, “As a Japanese person, I feel ashamed. They came all the way from Taiwan, and when Japan faced difficulties, Taiwan provided a great deal of assistance. I’m sorry, Taiwan.” Another said, “I cannot tolerate what Nagasaki has done. This does not represent the consensus of all Japanese people. It is a problem with the Nagasaki mayor personally.”

Rosalia Wu
Lawmaker (DPP)
The Nagasaki City Government may have made these arrangements, which hurt Taiwan’s national dignity, due to its longstanding relationship with China. Nagasaki shouldn’t side with China, which is expanding its nuclear arsenal and disrupting peace. It shouldn’t undermine the strong trust and friendship between Taiwan and Japan. We hope Nagasaki will handle this in the same way Hiroshima did.

Chen Gau-tzu
Lawmaker (TPP)
We support Representative Lee Yi-yang in how he protested by taking action.

Amid the backlash, Nagasaki said that due to the limited seating, officials who could not be accommodated in the diplomatic section had to be assigned to the overseas section. Officials stressed that the arrangements for Taiwan were the same as last year, and stated they had not intended to downgrade Taiwan’s status. But considering Taiwan’s reception in Hiroshima, the explanation may still not convince critics.

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

#diplomacy #hiroshima #nagasaki #history #japan #japanese #taiwan

2026-08-10

Rider loses control over scooter seconds before disembarking ferry

We cover plenty of scooter accidents on roads, but this might be the first time we cover an accident on a ferry. It happened on Sunday afternoon, on a ship connecting Cijin and Gushan in Kaohsiung. Just seconds before disembarking, a rider lost control of his scooter, which lurched forward and sped against a fellow passenger. Let’s hear more.

Voice of Mr. Lee
Witness
A lady to my right immediately shouted at them “Get off the scooter” and “Stop!” It was so dangerous. Online, people think that the passenger might have twisted the handlebar, causing it to speed forward suddenly.

Voice of staff
Gushan ferry pier
- They rushed out as soon as we moored the ship.
- Such a rush.
- I don’t know, haha.
- They lost control over the accelerator.
- Yeah, yeah.

Scooter rider
Commenting on incident
It’s very dangerous. They must have been in a rush to disembark.

Scooter rider
Commenting on incident
It’s the first time I see something like that. I’ve taken the ferry for so long, but it’s the first time I see that.

Whether the rider accidentally lost control of the throttle or deliberately twisted the handlebars, only those involved know for sure. The two parties left separately, without injuries and without reporting the incident. Fortunately, the ferry’s loading ramp had not yet been lowered, otherwise, the sudden acceleration could have sent the vehicle straight into the sea.

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

#scooter #ferry #kaohsiung #seatravel #publictransport #city #citylife

2026-08-10

Meta, Google, and Samsung release new AI glasses

Competition in the smart glasses market is heating up, with Meta, Google, and Samsung all releasing new models. The glasses incorporate AI features that can do everything from offering instant translation for dozens of languages to serving as teleprompters for speaking engagements. Let’s take a look at these glasses.

- How are you today?
- If you put these glasses on, foreign languages can be translated on the spot, eliminating any language barriers.

These glasses offer over 35 different languages. Translations appear on the lenses and when giving speeches Even Realities smart glasses can also project one’s speech script. If it’s time to flip to the next page, just slide a finger along the smart ring and everything’s A-okay. The audience off-stage won’t even notice a thing.

Lee Chia-feng
iNNOHOME consultant
The LED light is projected onto both lenses of the glasses, so visually they’re very clear. Weighing just 36 grams, they have a 2-day battery life, so they’re glasses that can be worn every day, even replace the glasses you currently wear.

Samsung has now released its first generation of AI smart glasses. The South Korean company collaborated with Gentle Monster on their new product, which has a battery life of 9 hours. The glasses have Google Gemini and its AI features pre-installed, helping users with everything from summarizing meetings, translating, and navigating.

Choi Won-joon
Head of R&D Office of Samsung Mobile
Like your child taking their first step or your pet being completely ridiculous, by the time you find your phone and open your camera, the moment has already passed.

Meta brought in internet celebrity Kylie Jenner to model the glasses. Boasting a 12-megapixel camera that can be operated via voice control, these glasses have a battery life of 8 hours. They also add convenience to the lives of visually impaired people by doing things like telling them what’s in their vicinity and reading items off a menu.

Liao A-hui
Tech guru
In the real world, you can use them as a type of first-person camera to take photos and record videos of your daily life. And with AI they can do identification tasks. The main aspect is this is a new market, because in the past there really wasn’t a product like this. I think these glasses are most similar to being a type of cell phone accessory.

The smart glasses market is on the rise. Market research organizations predict that this year 13.6 million pairs will be sold and by 2030 annual sales are expected to surpass 50 million pairs.

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#smartglasses #AI #thefutureishere #megapixels #Samsung #Meta #Google

2026-08-10

TAITRA visits Yamaha for application of automation technology and cooperation

When it comes to Japanese motorcycle makers, Honda and Yamaha are household names. But did you know that Yamaha has also been involved in the industrial robot market for over 40 years, developing automated storage and retrieval systems, high-speed robotic arms, and apps that span logistics, electronics, food, and semiconductor industries? Facing the global challenges of declining birthrates and labor shortages, the Taiwan External Trade Development Council, or TAITRA, visited a Japanese factory to understand automation technologies and explore new opportunities for Taiwan-Japan cooperation.

Chen Meng-hsuan
FTV reporter
We’re all familiar with Yamaha motorcycles, but you might not know that Yamaha has already ventured into the robotics market. Today, we’ll take you into Yamaha’s robot factory.

This robotic arm will follow your instructions and can quickly locate a package and proceed to pick it up and place it where you tell it to. In the face of labor shortages, this automated storage and retrieval system not only saves manpower but also improves overall operational efficiency.

Satoshi Nakamuro
Yamaha Robotics
As birth rates decline in today’s society, the demand for robots will be quite high, and I believe that the demand for robots will continue to rise in the future.

Yamaha’s initial foray into automation was actually to solve production problems in its own factories. As early as 1984, it developed industrial robots and gradually moved toward commercial use.

This 7-axis collaborative robot has torque sensors on each axis. It can smoothly navigate around obstacles and even work in narrow spaces. It has officially entered mass production this year, and all of its components are made in Japan. It can be adopted by industries ranging from traditional industries to electronics to the food industry.

Here, a robotic arm is moving back and forth at high speed, quickly grabbing small parts. Yamaha has partnered with Taiwan’s Toyo Automation to incorporate the equipment into automated production lines. It is mainly used for handling and assembling electronic parts and is currently Yamaha’s best-selling machine tool.

Satoshi Nakamuro
Yamaha Robotics
Currently, about 30% of Yamaha industrial robotics’ business comes from semiconductor-related applications. Looking ahead, we hope to continue investing in the semiconductor field, not just in Taiwan, and collaborate to further develop the semiconductor market.

James Huang
Chairman, TAITRA
I want to witness firsthand the strength of Japan’s technology, a major producer of high-end robots and automation equipment. What can we learn from them? What areas can our two countries further collaborate in?

Robots are being adopted across various industries as countries face the challenges of declining birth rates and labor shortages. This time, TAITRA led Taiwanese media on an overseas trip to production lines to better understand Japan’s strength in manufacturing automation equipment and to further explore opportunities for future Taiwan-Japan cooperation.

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#taitra #trade #robots #technology #tech #taiwan #japan

2026-08-10

Hualien souvenir shop offers free smoothies for Indigenous Peoples’ Day

Walk into the souvenir shop and shout, "I love Indigenous peoples!" to receive a complimentary smoothie! To celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day, a souvenir shop on Zhongshan Road in Hualien is offering a special event for August: simply state the secret password "I love Indigenous peoples" upon entering the store to enjoy a Hualien-exclusive pomelo-series smoothie free of charge. Packed with real pomelo pulp, it’s a hit with everyone!

A plate loaded with fresh pomelo pulp is poured into juice, blended together, and transferred to a smoothie machine. Before long, it turns into a refreshing, sweet-and-sour smoothie.

Taking a big sip brings an instant chill right to the core. In the sweltering heat of summer, enjoying an ice-cold smoothie is definitely the best way to beat the heat. This month, a souvenir shop on Zhongshan Road in Hualien is hosting a special campaign—to try the shop’s smoothie for free, all you have to do is say this single phrase.

Simply say the secret password "I love Indigenous peoples" to get a Hualien-exclusive smoothie. Available in pomelo-lemon and pomelo-hibiscus flavors, both options come loaded with fresh pomelo pulp. Taking a photo and checking in online even earns you a free pomelo mochi! As Aug. 1 marks Indigenous Peoples’ Day, this generous promotion will run throughout the entire month of August.

Ma Shu-chen
Shop owner
For our campaign, there’s no requirement that you have to be Indigenous. People from other cities and counties are all welcome. As long as you come in and say the secret password,“I love Indigenous peoples,” we’ll give you a free smoothie.

There are no restrictions on eligibility or redemption frequency. Beyond the slogan campaign, some products in the store incorporate traditional Indigenous spices such as mountain pepper and prickly ash, allowing visitors to better appreciate local Indigenous culture. Through the campaign, the shop encourages people to support Indigenous culture together.

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#Hualien #Indigenous #smoothie #freefood #IndigenousPeoplesDay #pomelo

2026-08-10

Man busted trying to sell 5 lemurs at temple parking lot

Five endangered ring-tailed lemurs have been seized in an illegal wildlife deal at a temple parking lot in New Taipei’s Zhonghe District. Animal protection officials intercepted the sale and seized the animals. The owner will be investigated by prosecutors under the Wildlife Conservation Act, and is facing a sentence of up to 5 years in prison and a fine of up to NT$1.5 million.

With their big eyes, and long fluffy tails, lemurs are one of the superstars of the animal world. They are native to Madagascar and are in high risk of extinction. Hunting and trading them is prohibited everywhere in the world. After a veterinary examination, the five primates were determined to be in good health, but further testing will be necessary to rule out amoebic infections and tuberculosis. For now they have been housed in a safe facility, and will be transferred to Taipei Zoo for care in the future.

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#lemur #busted #sale #endangered #nature #newtaipei #taiwan

2026-08-10

Feline imposter infiltrates Shiba Inu gathering

Many dog owners like to take their pet out for walks and playdates with other dogs. At a recent Shiba Inu gathering in Japan, a dozen Shibas gathered in a circle on the grass. But one of them wasn’t like the others. You had to squint to see it, but one of them was actually a cat! The calico’s calm composure had commenters joking that he came as an ambassador representing feline-kind. Others said he blended in so seamlessly that they had to watch the video three times just to spot him!

A dog sprints across the grass. After getting tired, he trots over to sniff the other dogs. They don’t just come here to let off some steam. They’re also busy making friends.

Dog owner
Likes animals
Shibas have to get outdoors. He’s a bit curious, but also a little timid.

Owners in Japan also love taking their Shibas out for playdates. This clip was taken at a recent gathering of a dozen or so dogs, looking like they’re holding their annual board meeting.

Dog owner
Likes animals
It’s so typical. That’s exactly how Shiba Inus look whenever they meet up on the street.

But if you look closer, one of them is grooming himself a little strangely. Let’s zoom in and take another look.

- Is that an Akita? No?
- No.
- What kind of dog is it?

- What is it?

There were 14 pets at this gathering: two black Shibas, while the rest look to be a yellowish-tan. But over on the right, why does one look a little smaller? It also has black, orange, and white markings on its fur. It turns out that sitting amidst this gathering of Shibas all along was a calico cat!

Dog owner
Likes animals
Most Shibas only have two colors. But he has some black too. It’s a calico.

- Cats and dogs can get along after all.

Dog owner
Likes animals
Oh! I spotted it. This is a cat? Shibas seem clever and mischievous, but in reality, they can be scared of cats sometimes. As long as they keep a healthy distance, it’s fine.

This calico blended in seamlessly. Commenters online wondered how on earth he got there, and jokingly asked whether he was a delegate of feline-kind sent to exchange views with his canine counterparts. Shibas are independent by nature. As long as they grow up with cats, they can coexist in perfect harmony.

#viral #dogs #cats #pets #cuteanimals #dogmeetup #ShibaInu #calico #Japan

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2026-08-10