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President Lai takes part in day 2 of Han Kuang drills

President Lai Ching-te took part in the second day of the Han Kuang live-fire military exercises on Wednesday, inspecting frontline operations at the Port of Taipei. He reviewed combat readiness with the Bali Garrison and received a briefing on the missile deployment status of Coast Guard vessels.

Lai rode in a Clouded Leopard 8x8 armored vehicle during a simulated attack on the area surrounding the Presidential Office. Military Police Rapid Response units formed a heavily armored convoy to escort the president to the Hengshan Command Center in Taipei’s Dazhi District. It was the first time President Lai personally participated in the exercises since taking office, highlighting the importance of this year’s training. Reports say the operation deployed three separate motorcades, traveling at different times along different routes to complicate enemy surveillance and targeting. US personnel were also on site throughout the exercise, observing the operation from start to finish.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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#president #hankuang #dazhi #military #commander-in-chief #US

Time：2026-08-06

最新消息 Latest News

Eatery in Taipei goes viral because of mayoral signatures

Over in Raohe Night Market, an unassuming yet popular eatery known for its signature dishes of vermicelli and pork thick soup recently got swept into the contentious Taipei mayoral race. That’s all because one wall had the signatures of both incumbent Chiang Wan-an of the KMT and DPP competitor Puma Shen. When Shen signed the wall recently, netizens noticed that a menu had been posted over the old Chiang signature, causing cries of a political “cover-up.” Angry netizens review-bombed the restaurant online, prompting the owner to simply paint over the signatures and put an end to it.

It’s lunchtime at this eatery, which has well over 10 people waiting in line outside, because inside it’s a full house. Boasting a century-long history, this unassuming local hotspot recently got dragged into a political storm. But business is good as usual, in fact, even slightly busier than before.

This white wall originally had the signature of Taipei mayoral candidate Puma Shen, of the DPP. Next to the signed name was a menu, which when lifted up had shown current Taipei mayor Chiang Wan-an’s signature from four years ago. This “cover-up” resulted in a group of keyboard warriors posting negative reviews of the restaurant. Bothered by the extra attention, the proprietor painted over the wall.

Member of public
Wanted to witness spectacle
I know the reason why so many people are here, and it’s why I drove over here to see it for myself. I’m happy to see such a big crowd, so I’m here as a show of support.

Member of public
Didn’t trust online reviews
Rather than be affected by those negative reviewers, who’ve never actually eaten here, I decided it’d be best to give this place a try and then leave a review, which is a better reflection of how good it is.

Despite running the restaurant as usual, upon seeing a news reporter had come, he made a point of asking for the media to stop covering this story when the cameras weren’t on him.

Puma Shen
DPP Taipei Mayoral Candidate
That wall shouldn’t become a place that people fight over. I hope that everyone can keep supporting the restaurant, because, at the end of the day, I grew up eating there.

Chiang Wan-an
Taipei Mayor
I’d like to continue inviting everyone to come to the night markets of Taipei City, to walk around, to consume and to try the delicious food of Taipei.

Known for its oily sticky rice, vermicelli, and pork thick soup, who would’ve guessed that this small restaurant, for a brief political interlude, would be most famous for its signatures of politicians?

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
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#Taipei #Raohe #ChiangWan-an #PumaShen #nopolitics #cover-up

2026-08-06

Official AI-created infographic shows China emblem instead of Taiwan

A poster explaining consumer rights at social housing apartments has caused an outrage among residents. It’s not because of the consumer protection guidelines themselves, but because the poster features China’s national emblem as the symbol of the central government, not Taiwan’s. The Taichung City government has admitted the fault, saying that the poster was AI-generated and was not properly examined before it was posted in public. Let’s hear more.

Member of public
Baffled by poster
I don’t have a political stance, but I think this is really inappropriate. It’s as if we had been infiltrated by the CCP. They put it up without taking a look at it. It’s unreasonable.

Member of public
Baffled by poster
Of course I feel uncomfortable. It’s our central government, our country. How did our central government turn into theirs?

Member of public
Saw the poster
The intentions of the sign are good, but the problem is that they put a symbol from across the strait. I take the elevator every day to and from work. It’s been up for about 3 or 4 days.

Chen Shu-hua
Taichung City Councilor (DPP)
Even posters at social housing units are now featuring Chinese symbols in Taichung! Has the Taichung City Government been annexed by the CCP? Lu Shiow-yen, are you a mayor for the Chinese Communist Party?

Chen Yu-jung
Taichung City Councilor (DPP)
The city government should explain why this sign was made, who created it, and what measures will be taken.

Chen Ching-I
Taichung Housing Development Bureau
We removed all the promotional posters as soon as it was brought to our attention. We acknowledge that this was a very serious oversight.

The Chinese emblem with the five gold stars on a red background raised many eyebrows. In the bottom right corner, a note says “This infographic is AI-generated.” The Taichung City Government says that the incident was a serious oversight, adding that the posters were taken down immediately after the mistake was reported.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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#aigenerated #poster #consumersrights #protection #socialhousing #china #taiwan

2026-08-06

TaiwanICDF upgrading itself into a strategy-led organization

The Taiwan International Cooperation and Development Fund may’ve turned 30 last month, but its focus has already turned to the future. Despite so much of the world now cutting back on foreign aid due to the last half-decade of uncertainty, the ICDF is bucking the trend by focusing on digital innovation, which will allow it to help its diplomatic partners become more resilient and independent.

Recently, Taiwan International Cooperation and Development Fund Secretary-General Dr. Yu-Lin Huang signed a joint declaration with international partners entitled “Investing in Resilience and Prosperity: Driving Sustainable Development through Digital Innovation.” The document’s signing is one more item on the list of achievements for the TaiwanICDF, which has recently been celebrating its 30th anniversary as it undergoes structural reorganization.

Yu-Lin Huang
Secretary General of TaiwanICDF
The ICDF is not a big organization, but with our international partners we’ve established long-term relationships built on trust. During these last two years this trust has been our foundation while we’ve been restructuring our organization and carrying out financial reform. And now we’re already transforming from a traditional public organization that helps carry out the plans of others to a platform with its own strategy.

Formed on July 1, 1996, the ICDF offers recipients Taiwanese expertise in areas including agriculture technology, public health and medical treatment, and educational training. By sharing its technology, talent, and forming long-term relationships, Taiwan has created an important path for diplomacy. However, as a result of the world facing so much uncertainty in recent times, many countries have chosen to reduce foreign aid. Taiwan, with the support of its president and the Executive Yuan, is, instead, going against the grain as it strengthens its connections around the world. For the first time in three decades, Taiwan has created a cooperative framework with Europe and the US, and in recent years Taiwanese manufacturers have been encouraged to invest in other countries, thereby creating a path of cooperation where Taiwan and its allies have both autonomy and equality.

Yu-Lin Huang
Secretary General of TaiwanICDF
In recent years we’ve heard the term debt trap get talked about a lot. The ICDF, however, seeks to foster the local talent of our international partners as well as help them establish systems. By developing their technology and cultivating their ability to govern themselves, we’re actually helping our partners have autonomy when it comes to making decisions.

Instead of heedlessly throwing around large amounts of money, the ICDF is seeking to increase its influence by relying on expertise and innovation. From receiving aid in the past to now exporting its experiences to others, during these last 30 years the ICDF has worked hard to ensure the world can see Taiwan’s many areas of soft power.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
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#30thenew20 #TaiwanICDF #digitalinnovation #diplomacy #foreignaid

2026-08-06

Motorists makes miracle car crash escape with mid-air front flip

A motorist in Yilan made a miraculous escape after crashing against a car, by making an impressive front-flip right over the car’s hood. The collision took place on Tuesday morning, near Nanping Elementary School. A black sedan was making a U-turn and cut off the motorist’s path. Let’s hear more.

Chang Yu-sheng
Police officer
First responders arrived at the scene and immediately took the injured party to the hospital. Both drivers tested negative for alcohol in the breathalyzer test.

Shopkeeper
Yilan
They all turn around over there. Everyone here does that.

Shopkeeper
Yilan
Of course it’s more dangerous, but you also have to consider the businesses in the area. Instead of parallel lines all along, ideally you should have a space to turn there. It would be handy for the shops here.

The motorcycle rider crashed against the car, resulting in a stunning mid-air summersault right over the car. Despite the hair-rising footage, the best part is, the motorists emerged with just minor injuries. But the new accident has reignited debate about road markings in the area, with many locals complaining that illegal U-turns have turned that stretch into a hotspot for accidents. Authorities say they will speak with locals about a solution.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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#caughtoncamera #frontflip #biker #motorist #gymnastics #miraculous #nearmiss

2026-08-06

Insulting emperor quotes, cute cats and punny goods at Creative Expo

Taiwan’s biggest celebration of creativity is back, and it’s bigger than ever. The Creative Expo Taiwan has opened at the Nangang Exhibition Center, bringing together a record 1,200 booths and over 870 brands. There’s stickers with insulting quotes from the Yongzheng Emperor, punny trinkets for mouse lovers, and adorable cat trinkets. For many Taiwanese who grew up in the 80s and 90s, there’s an extra dose of nostalgia, as beloved illustrator Cathie Chen returns to the spotlight after a 30-year hiatus.

Creative Expo Taiwan has kicked off at Nangang Exhibition Center, with the first two days open to professionals only. More than 80 companies from overseas have come to Taiwan to discuss collabs with creators. Among them is Cathie Chen, who’s making a comeback after 30 years by offering illustrations that evoke childhood memories for Gen X.

Cathie Chen
Creator of cathie’s
Last year marked 30 years of cathie’s. Now it’s the 31st year, and I recovered my trademark. So this is a fresh start for me, and cathie’s.

Chen is celebrating her new beginnings by participating in the expo for the first time. Among her wares is an illustrated 6-ring binder that can be used as a journal. The event has brought together 870 brands across 1,200 booths, including popular creators such as Fumeancats and Onion Man. It’s the biggest edition of the expo yet.

Lin Yung-chi
FTV reporter
The popular National Palace Museum rain ponchos can also be found here, as well as highly-demanded products with memeable quotes from the Yongzheng Emperor’s memorials, like this savage sticker saying “You are mentally ill.” Other more amiable quotes include “I gained weight again” or “I trust you can do it.”

Huang Yung-tai
National Palace Museum
It is a major breakthrough for us to be able to bring personalized content to the general public. We also have a section dedicated to the Tibetan Dragon Canon, which became super popular recently.

There’s a book with illuminations from the Tibetan Dragon Sutras, lucky charms, a bottle opener and even a pen shaped like a vajra scepter. If you like cheesy puns about mice, this other stand will get you squeaking with laughter. After mouse-ive demand last year, they have stocked shelves to the rafters.

Ah-tsung
Creature Collectors Club
There were so many people, it was crazy. We brought more stock this year, especially since last year everyone loved our handkerchiefs.

Yuri
3co Studio
We have doubled the stock we bring to a regular expo. New creators can come to expos to sell their products, but if you can score a collab with a manufacturer, you can get licensing agreements.

Exposure is what every up-and-coming artist wants, so rental prices for booths in the emerging creator area are cheaper than before, at just NT$9,500. If shopping for ingenious doodads sounds like fun, this weekend and next, the Creative Expo Taiwan is the place to be.

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

#creativeexpotaiwan #designer #creator #illustration #creative #expo #3costudio #Fumeancats #onionman #cathies #nationalpalacemuseum

2026-08-06

Top museum becomes Taiwan’s newest social media bestie

Taiwan’s latest internet crush might just be a museum! The National Palace Museum Southern Branch in Chiayi has gone viral after its social media manager started replying to netizens with surprisingly casual, and sometimes downright savage comments. From a simple “What?” to wishing people good night, the account is really responsive. So much so that some visitors are even showing up at the museum asking to meet the person responsible for turning the prestigious museum into Taiwan’s newest online bestie.

Taiwan’s latest social media sensation is none other than the official account of the Southern Branch of National Palace Museum. Netizens tag the account constantly, hoping to be noticed by senpai. What is going on?

A couple of days ago, a user made a post saying just “National Palace Museum Southern Branch.” It got a reply from the institution: “What?” It turns out the NPM is willing to chat!

- Do you know what is the most iconic reply?
- “What?” Hahaha
- What?
- Yeah, “What?”

- Someone said their name and it replied “What?” It’s my fave.

The casual reply opened the flood gates, starting a nationwide contest to get a reply from the museum. Among the winners were some who asked the museum “What are you up to?” and in reply got a picture of a carved ceramic pillow in the shape of a baby, with the message “Chilling.” Another asked NPM “Are you sleeping yet?” The reply was “About to.” Someone had a special request “Can you wish me a good night?” and lo and behold, the museum replied “Good night.” But the museum has feelings too. One netizen said “NPM, come here now!” The reply? “You’re mean!”

Member of the public
Into the trend
It’s like a boyfriend. You call him, and he shows up. Except real-life boyfriends aren’t so obedient.

Member of the public
Into the trend
It feels so relatable. Like he’s one of us.

The fun interactions have helped the account rack up countless followers, some of whom even showed up to the museum in person.

Yu Bing-yi
National Palace Museum Southern Branch
I was stopped by a group of visitors, and they asked us, “Are you the account manager?” We were like.. Uh…no. People come in and ask the exhibition staff where the social media guy is, and whether they can meet him.

The social media manager is always lurking and more than willing to chat with fans. Who would’ve known that such a prestigious institution could be so down with the kids?

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
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#nationalpalacemuseum #noticemesenpai #socialmedia #socialmediastrategy #npm #故宮南院 #故宮

2026-08-06

Revamped railway depot reopens as Taiwan’s largest indoor playground

A kid’s playground paradise is set to open its doors in Kaohsiung this weekend, just in time for Father’s Day. The project has been in the works for two years, revamping a historic railway maintenance depot into a must-visit site for families.

The former Kaohsiung Railway Workshop has a new lease on life as the country’s largest semi-indoor playground. The fun spans over 1.5 hectares, dotted with more than 30 attractions for all ages. The park itself is a feast for the eyes, preserving the industrial architecture of the original site. The highlights include the first cloud-themed bouncing area in Taiwan, a parkour course for kids and plenty of climbing and bouldering walls. What’s best, is that it’s all free of charge.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
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#play #familyfun #playground #kaohsiung #weekend #events

2026-08-06

Viral video of Vaseline use on dolphin inspires brand collaboration

Dolphins also need to care for their skin. A dolphin caretaker at Hualien’s Farglory Ocean Park said dolphins are prone to dry, cracked skin in the winter, and shared a video of him applying Vaseline to their skin for protection, which unexpectedly went viral.

Five dolphins at Hualien’s Farglory Ocean Park respond to their trainers’ gestures, jumping into the air and diving back into the water. While the dolphin show has been replaced with an educational program, these five dolphins are still the park’s stars.

Teng Chun-jen
Ocean park brand development director
We hope that the animals in the park will receive even better care and that visitors can learn more about them from a different perspective.

This dolphin caretaker, Lao Tien, has been at the park for 12 years and often posts about his work on social media. One recent post got a lot of attention.

It turns out dolphins also need skincare. This post about applying Vaseline to the dolphins’ skin in winter went viral.

Lao Tien
Dolphin caretaker
I covered the skin around this area so that it will retain moisture. This way it won’t crack due to cold weather or dry winds.

The skin around the dolphin’s blowhole tends to get dry and crack in the winter, just like human skin. Lao Tien tried using Vaseline to keep the skin hydrated. The video’s popularity led the brand to approach him to collaborate.

Huang Yi-ting
Brand manager
We hope that sustainability can become a tangible and visible action and to create a space where people can experience it in a tangible and meaningful way.

The collaboration between the ocean park and Vaseline shows both organizations are turning their focus to sustainable development.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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#OceanPark #Hualien #dolphin #dolphintrainer #viral #Vaseline #skincare #dolphinskincare #sustainability #conservation

2026-08-06

Whale shark swimming alongside boat wows crew, tourists in Penghu

Tourists were treated to a special sight in the waters off Penghu! While carrying visitors out to experience squid fishing near Qimei, the passengers encountered an enormous whale shark swimming right alongside their boat. Delighted to witness such a rarity, the crew and tourists alike whipped out their phones to record the encounter.

Just as these tourists were getting ready to go squid fishing, an enormous spotted whale shark swims out from under the boat, causing the passengers to gasp in awe.

The shark swims back and forth beside the boat, occasionally opening its mouth and poking its snout above the surface. The passengers and crew whip out their phones to capture what was sure to be the highlight of their Penghu trip.

Member of public
Commenting on whale shark
Better environmental awareness has really had a positive impact on the ecosystem here.

Member of public
Commenting on whale shark
Environmental awareness among fishers and locals is getting better. We expect more tourists to see surprising wildlife on their trip to Penghu, like this whale shark.

The whale shark is the largest species of fish in the world. It likes to stay near the surface and feed on plankton. Due to its mellow nature, people sometimes call it the “gentle giant of the sea.”

Hsueh Chieh-yin
Penghu Agriculture and Fisheries Bureau
The International Union for Conservation of Nature has named it an endangered species. Taiwan listed it as a protected marine species in 2020.

Although the unexpected visitor scared away all the squid, getting to see an endangered species made the trip well worth it.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
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#whaleshark #Penghu #marinelife #marineconservation #gentlegiant #squidfishing #oceans

2026-08-06

Technical seawater monitoring ensures Chiayi’s oysters are top notch.

Succulent and slippery—who can resist the large, famous oysters from Chiayi County’s coastal towns of Budai and Dongshi? Behind their exceptional quality is a scientific secret: home to Taiwan’s first continuous automatic marine water quality monitoring stations—funded by the Ocean Affairs Council—the region tests the surrounding sea for purity and even microplastics. Here is how high-tech monitoring protects one of Taiwan’s favorite delicacies.

Placed on the grill in their shells, the oysters pop open once cooked to reveal plump, juicy meat. All sourced from Dongshi and Budai in Chiayi, these oysters are so fresh they’ve earned the title "milk of the sea."

Weng Chang-liang
Chiayi County Commissioner
Coming to Dongshi and not eating oysters is like not having been to Dongshi at all. Our oysters are incredibly fresh and delicious. We have two seawater monitoring systems along our coastline in Dongshi and Budai. If you go online, you can see the state of our overall water quality. We monitor it regularly.

How are such high-quality oysters cultivated? Let’s take a closer look behind the camera lens.

Arriving at the Dongshi’s marine area automatic water quality monitoring station, it’s like we are entering a mini monitoring lab. Funded by the Ocean Affairs Council of the Executive Yuan and built for the Chiayi County Government, this station provides continuous automated monitoring of the surrounding waters.

Chiu Mei-chun
Ocean Affairs Council
A dual-station monitoring network was established in Budai and Dongshi, enabling 24-hour monitoring of the marine environment, with data transmission occurring every 5 minutes.

Seawater is extracted to monitor its quality. If abnormalities are detected, the water will be automatically directed to a sample storage container and then sent to the laboratory for more precise testing.

Chuang Hui-chuan
Chiayi County Environmental Protection Bureau
In recent years, another sampling technique for microplastics has been added. Oysters are filter feeders, so after they filter the water, microplastics may remain in them. That’s why we test for microplastics as well.

The oysters from Budai and Dongshi are famous far and wide, thanks not only to the efforts of the fishermen, but also to the efforts of relevant authorities in maintaining the quality of the seawater, which serves as the strong foundation behind their success.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
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#oysters #oystercultivation #Taiwancuisine #Chiayicuisine #Budai #Dongshi

2026-08-06

42nd year of Han Kuang Exercise is a 10-day, 9-night affair

Today was day one of the 42nd edition of the Han Kuang Exercise, an annual event for combat readiness. Over the course of the event, which will last for 10 days, a variety of unscripted drills involving constantly changing conditions will test the troops and their commanders in simulated war-time situations. The Army, Air Force, Navy, and even the Coast Guard are working together and will introduce new technology in order to increase Taiwan’s defense resilience.

This F-16V fighter zips by on its descent to Hualien’s Chiashan Air Force Base. Next up is a Mirage 2000 fighter jet that is then followed by an Indigenous Defense Fighter. These military aircrafts are carrying out tactical redeployment drills, which allows for decentralized deployment of troops in order to secure positional advantage. The fighter jets of Taiwan’s Air Force are the opening act of the 42nd edition of the Han Kuang Exercise.

After being ordered to deploy, the Navy’s Kang Ding-class frigate has sortied out of the harbor. This patrol vessel of the Coast Guard Administration is inspecting the area as part of a simulation exercise in which law enforcement units are finding ways to support troops during a war. Also showcasing their combat prowess are these Army helicopters.

Several UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters from the Army Aviation 602nd Brigade are carrying out a troop transport mission in which they must rapidly drop off troops at tactical positions; this tests their ability to carry out long-range movements as well as air-ground coordination. This CH-47 Chinook helicopter is carrying 100 fully armed reinforcement troops, who are being taken to tactical positions in Northern Taiwan, thereby completing the mission to defend critical infrastructure.

Reservists in this mobilization exercise are using T65K2 rifles during live-fire drills, which are training them under conditions that’ll closely resemble the battlefield and help them strengthen their combat readiness. Also present is the Taipei City Reserve Command’s mortar battalion, who are training with US-made M4A1 rifles to improve their shooting proficiency.

The 42nd edition of the Han Kuang Exercise will last 10 days and 9 nights. Unscripted and utilizing decentralized command, the drills will incorporate new military technology, like the recently commissioned M1A2T, a M1 Abrams battle tank, as well as attack drones. The exercise will be a multi-faceted test of Taiwan’s overall defense and resilience.

Wellington Koo
Minister of National Defense
This year’s Han Kuang Exercise has adopted an unscripted approach, in which constantly changing conditions will force commanders to improvise, thus testing their decision-making and ability to issue commands.

Minister Koo expressed his confidence that the mobilization drills of the Han Kuang Exercise will involve the soldiers in every area of war, thereby showcasing Taiwan’s elite military forces.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
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#HanKuangExercise #TopGun #Taiwan #combatreadiness #military

2026-08-05

Taiwan set to double airport service fees to fund infrastructure

Going overseas for a vacation is about to get more expensive. Airport service fees will double in price to fund projects at the airports in Taoyuan, Kaohsiung and Taichung. The higher fees will come into effect in two stages. The fee will go up from NT$500 to NT$750 per passenger on Sept. 1. Another rise will happen on Sept. 1, 2027, to hit NT$1,000. But that doesn’t mean you’ll have to bring cash to the airport. The fee will be collected by airlines as part of the ticket price. Travelers have mixed feelings about the change. Let’s hear more.

Traveler
Not happy about price hike
If the increase is too much at once, like from NT$250 to NT$750… Our salaries certainly haven’t gone up by that much. Everything is getting pricier, and with higher costs, you definitely feel the pressure.

Traveler
Hoping for better service
I’d be more willing to accept it if the higher service fee actually improves the quality of service.

Traveler
Hoping for better service
Then they should offer better services and more options. Make things more convenient. That’s only fair.

Airport service fees have remained unchanged for more than a decade, but construction costs have only climbed in recent years. The government is planning to spend NT$600 billion over the next 20 years to build Terminal 3 at Taoyuan International Airport, add a new Terminal to Kaohsiung International Airport, and expand Taichung International Airport.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
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#airport #travel #taiwantravel #airtravel #planes #ilikeplanes #infrastructure

2026-08-05

New THSR trains to arrive this month, enter service next July

The first next-generation N700ST train for the Taiwan High Speed Rail recently debuted at a rollout ceremony at the Hitachi Kasado Works in Yamaguchi, Japan, launching the 20-year-old THSR into a new chapter. The new trains will also come with a new timetable. Starting next year, the high-speed rail will undergo its largest schedule adjustment to date, to be carried out in five stages, significantly expanding weekly services to 1,400 and introducing a "super express" train.


This brand-new N700ST train for the Taiwan High Speed Rail features seats with added lumbar support, reading lights conveniently relocated to the seatback, and two trays: one large and one small. Every seat has outlets, and the overhead luggage racks are deeper, offering a major upgrade to the passenger experience.

The THSR bought 12 new train sets from Japan, the first of which is expected to arrive on Aug. 15 and enter service on July 1 next year. Minister of Transportation and Communications Chen Shih-kai and THSR Chairman Shih Che visited Japan recently to preview the new business class carriages. An unboxing video was posted to the official THSR Facebook page, featuring reactions from legislators.

- I think it’s great! Everyone should be looking forward to it.

- Having an extra tray is convenient to hold your coffee or water.

- There’s a lot of added space for luggage, which is a very useful service.

The “Dual Supreme Wing” nose cone, designed especially for Taiwan, can reduce noise and wind resistance, while the crisp white livery with orange and black lines running along the side gives the 13-tonne train a sleek and high-tech look, even while moving at high speeds of 300kph.

Shih Che
THSR Chair
After the new trains enter service, the high-speed rail will eventually have 1,400 services every week, up from 1,134 currently, boosting peak-hour capacity by at least 25%. Over the next two to three years, operating the two train models at the same time will bring about major timetable changes.

The new timetable is the high-speed rail’s biggest schedule overhaul since it debuted 20 years ago. It’s planned as a one-time change with five successive increases, to be announced in detail by the fourth quarter of this year for implementation early next year. There will be more peak-hour trains and better long-distance and express services, including a “super express” train between southern and northern Taiwan, and services connecting Yunlin and Chiayi directly to Taichung and Taipei.

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

#THSR #highspeedrail #newtrains #traintravel #N700ST #publictransit

2026-08-05

TaiwanICDF chooses 6 students to go abroad to do 5-day diplomacy trips

The Taiwan International Cooperation and Development Fund received more than 100 applications for its first-ever campus ambassador program. A big challenge for the ICDF was whittling down the large candidate pool to just six students that’d be going on a 5-day diplomatic internship trip to either Eswatini or Saint Lucia. Earlier this week, the ICDF selected the six campus ambassadors, who faced stiff competition during a 3-week selection process.

This speaker is standing next to a screen that has PowerPoint slides depicting her diplomatic plan. She’s one of the finalists for the Taiwan International Cooperation and Development Fund’s campus ambassador program, which on August 3 selected its 6 campus ambassadors. With 3 going to diplomatic ally Eswatini, the other 3 will be traveling to Saint Lucia, another ally of Taiwan.

Huang An-yu
ICDF Campus Youth Ambassador
I sought to understand the true nature of the exchanges the ICDF has with local women or the local people who receive aid.

Tsai Wan-yin
ICDF Campus Youth Ambassador
We help by providing them with crops and teach them how to grow crops even better. I think these issues are all a good example of Taiwan showing itself to the world, because it’s an opportunity for others to see us helping foreign countries.

Starting with a preliminary competition, this 3-week selection process ended with oral reports during the final stage. The campus ambassadors who were ultimately selected passed a battery of tests.

Lin I-chun
ICDF Campus Youth Ambassador
I want to take the passion and warmth of the Taiwanese people with me and share this with the local community, because based on my interactions with a lot of friends from abroad, the one thing I’ve heard the most is that they really like Taiwanese people. So I want to take our spirit, as well as what makes Taiwanese people special, and then bring this with me to the local community.

The committee needed to select six students from 100+ candidates, who faced off in a very competitive selection process.

Peifen Hsieh
Taiwan ICDF Deputy Secretary General
Our standards included how much passion they had for the ICDF and this program. We also considered their sense of motivation, planning ability, diplomatic insight, and ability to communicate effectively, which included their speech presentation skills. So, overall, this was actually quite a thorough selection process.

The ICDF hopes that this campus ambassador internship program will help students broaden their horizons, as this opportunity to travel abroad will offer first-hand experiences of international cooperation in addition to potentially leading to future jobs for these youth ambassadors.

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

#Taiwan #Eswatini #SaintLucia #jobshadowing #campusambassador #TaiwanICDF

2026-08-05

Terrifying Ghost Month shop display taken down in Miaoli

With Ghost Month right around the corner, a convenience store in Miaoli decided to get festive with a spooky décor competition. Staff put up creepy decorations to promote the Ghost Month deals. Though the display attracted plenty of attention, some customers freaked out, saying that it was scarier than necessary. Let’s hear more.

Member of public
Likes the creativity
I thought it was fresh and new, and it reminded me that it’s almost Ghost Month. I thought they were very creative. I did get a fright when I went in and saw the paper ghost that looks like a woman.

Member of public
Was spooked out
The decorations scared me! It was hanging there mid-air, it was terrifying. It frightened me! Like, what is it? Why is it at the convenience store?

Voice of shop staff
Commenting on reactions
People thought it was special. But some did freak out a little bit.

Among the decorations was a ghost dressed in a white robe and wearing a straw hat. There were also ingots suspended from the ceiling, and a long-tongued ghost wishing onlookers to get rich. Though apparently tame during the day, it might have been a bit too terrifying for some, and the display was spirited away overnight. All that remains is the Ghost Month goods for sale with a few decorations made of joss paper.

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

#ghost #ghostfestival #spooky #spiritedaway #conbini

2026-08-05

‘Kung fu grandpa’ does flawless one-foot split against traffic light

A passionate kung fu practitioner in Kaohsiung has become something of a local legend for his very public Shaolin-esque training. The man can often be seen balancing atop YouBike docks, or pulling his leg straight up in the air to do a formidable one-foot standing split against a traffic light. A video of him performing the stunts went viral online, with many admiring his commitment to the craft, and even drawing comparisons between him and bygone martial artists from the movies.

A man wearing a hat appears to be leaning right up against the traffic light pole. Already a strange sight, but not as shocking as the view from the front: a flawless one-foot standing split. The video went viral online, where hundreds were shocked by the kung fu master hiding in plain sight.

Others compared him to Mighty Steel Leg, Stephen Chow’s character in the Hong Kong classic Shaolin Soccer. Mastery of this skill is not for everyone. The man, who appears to be in his 50s, seemed fully at ease practicing the move at a pole on the street.

- That’s impressive.
- Could you do it?
- No way.

- He’s alright. Everyone can do that, even me.
- You can?
- Nah, I’m just pulling your leg.

And kung fu grandpa’s skills don’t end at leg flexibility. Some have seen him training his balance atop YouBike parking docks, 70cm from the ground. He regularly comes to this part of town to practice.

Voice of local
Kaohsiung
If I get here a little earlier, at 8, I usually see him on the bridge. He comes out even if it’s hot, under the scorching sun. He’s always doing static exercises and stretches. He’s just focused on himself, not on anything happening round him.

The man’s identity remains unknown but just in case any copycats get inspired, be reminded that the YouBike pillars have fragile sensors. So if you want to practice butterfly kicks or the praying mantis stance, be sure to abide by the Shaolin code and take care of public property.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
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#funny #martialarts #exercise #workout #parkour #kungfu #splits #stretching #fitness

2026-08-05

British paper names Kaohsiung 10th best November destination

Kaohsiung has been promoting its urban transformation in recent years, featuring attractions such as the Pier-2 Art Center, Lotus Pond, and Love River, as well as a thriving concert scene. Not only have these efforts made the southern port city the top spot for tourism among the six special municipalities for the past three years, it has even grabbed the attention of British media, securing the 10th-best November travel destination as named by The TimesTaiwan’s only spot in the ranking.

The imposing Dragon and Tiger Pagodas stand proudly over Kaohsiung’s scenic Lotus Pond, drawing scores of tourists over the weekends. The city has become a more popular destination in recent years, even gaining accolades from international media.

Tseng Hung-wen
FTV reporter
Kaohsiung was named the 10th-best November travel destination by The Times in the UK, the only destination in Taiwan to make the list. Lotus Pond was even featured as the cover photo for the report.

Chen Chi-mai
Kaohsiung Mayor
Pier-2, Lotus Pond, and the Love River here in Kaohsiung were all recommended by The Times. These are all great reasons to visit our port city in wintertime.

Tourist
Visiting Kaohsiung
I went to the Main Public Library before, and today we came to Lotus Pond.

Tourist
Visiting Kaohsiung
I want to go to Cijin, Sizihwan... These two places seem like quick ways to get to the ocean from the city center.

In addition to Zuoying’s Lotus Pond, which is steeped in rich religious tradition, Cijin offers stunning ocean views and delicious seafood, accessible after just a 10-minute ferry ride. The Pier-2 Art Center has also become a major draw for cultural tourism in recent years. Hugely popular characters like Ultraman and Chiikawa have been featured in events here. Add to that a burgeoning concert scene, it’s no wonder that Kaohsiung has been named the most satisfying tourism destination among the six special municipalities for the past three years running. Gaining recognition from abroad as well is the cherry on top.

Resident
Kaohsiung
I feel like Kaohsiung is gradually transforming from an industrial city. The attractions and infrastructure is all really good.

Chen Chi-mai
Kaohsiung Mayor
Aside from the attractions, we also have excellent street food here. We’ll keep working with organizers to bring concerts, including AAA in October and BTS.

Kaohsiung has been heavily promoting its recent urban transformation. With delicious local street food, convenient transportation, and targeted global promotion, Taiwan’s largest port city has created a proud identity to showcase to the world.

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

#Kaohsiung #tourism #LotusPond #TheTimes #traveldestination #internationalmedia #ranking #Pier2ArtCenter #concerts

2026-08-05

Hotels create family attractions, partner with popular IPs to attract summer stays

Hotels are vying for family business over the summer vacation. Marriott has stepped up its game with a 1,320-square-meter indoor play area with electric cars for children as well as indoor go-karts that both adults and kids can enjoy. Meanwhile, the Shangri-La and Hotel Cozzi are featuring well-known characters in themed rooms and play spaces, hoping to create a one-stop travel destination.

Children speed along in tiny electric cars, obeying the traffic signs as they have a blast driving around the track.

Chen Chih-fan
FTV reporter
Not only are there miniature cars for kids, but also electric go-karts that both children and adults can enjoy together. This hotel has set up a 1,320-square-meter indoor play area, seeking to draw the summer vacation crowds.

- I’m so happy! I love driving cars.

- It’s so fun and exciting! I want to be a race-car driver!

Parent
Thinks it’s great
I think it’s great. It’s boiling hot outside right now. I prefer to be inside where we’re not sweating constantly. Plus the kids can burn off their energy, so it works out well.

Another floor offers an artwork treasurehunt, with free afternoon tea for anyone who can complete it. This five-star Marriott transformed its banquet hall into an indoor family play zone, making it free from rain and wind, not to mention the scorching sun. Children can play from morning until night to burn off energy while staying cool during their summer break.

Sun Yi-tien
Marriott senior marketing manager
We’ve noticed that when families go on summer vacation, they need a place to let out some energy. So this year, we installed this 1,320-square-meter play zone in the banquet hall. We hope parents will bring their kids here for a one-stop entertainment experience. There are instructors standing off to the side to make sure they’re safe, so our guests can enjoy themselves with peace of mind.

Other hotels are looking to popular characters for a boost. The Shangri-La has teamed up with Sanrio to offer dreamy rooms and arts-and-crafts activities. At Hotel Cozzi, everything from the lobby to the in-room amenities are covered with Korea’s popular cartoon dogs Gonchil and Gongsil.

Wu Chia-ying
Shangri-La marketing director
Coming to a hotel allows for a more comfortable stay that also beats the heat. This wave of summer room bookings is expected to drive overall summer revenue growth by about 20%.

Chung Hung-ting
Hotel Cozzi marketing director
Across our two branches, we offer six different themed guest rooms. Overall revenue is expected to bring nearly a 15% growth in earnings.

Big hotels are pulling out all the stops to offer one-stop experiences for families looking for a fun summer travel destination.

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

#hotels #summervacation #familyvacation #gokarts #indoorplayground #Sanrio

2026-08-05

Traditional bamboo broom maker is unafraid of Chinese competition

In Miaoli’s Zaoqiao Township, there’s a 77-year-old craftsman who makes hand-made bamboo brooms using traditional techniques that were taught by his father. Chen Wan-te says he’s not afraid of Chinese competition as his brooms are much more durable than their Chinese counterparts, while his township chief is begging him to teach his skills to others. Let’s find out more.

Wearing gloves, he uses his hands to strip the leaves off bamboo branches, removing them one by one.

Next, he sorts through the bamboo branches. They must be chosen with precision to ensure a neat finish, then bound tightly with wire to form a broom head.

The final step is to insert a bamboo pole. There! He’s just successfully made a broom.

- How many can you sell in a month?
- I can sell 350 each month.

Chen Wan-te, a 77-year-old craftsman, lives in Zaoqiao Township, Miaoli County. He started to learn the craft of making bamboo brooms from his father when he was a child. Faced with competition from cheap Chinese imports, he is not afraid, but rather confident.

Chen Wan-te
Bamboo broom craftsman
The road maintenance workers need to sweep the streets, but they don’t buy Chinese brooms because they break down in less than a month. Go buy some and see for yourself; their brooms keep breaking pieces off and falling apart in less than a month of use.

This traditional method of hand-tying brooms is becoming increasingly rare. The local township chief has paid him a personal visit in hopes that he will teach courses to pass down his knowledge of broom making.

- How about we ask Chen to arrange a course to make bamboo brooms?
- Yeah, sure!

This septuagenarian insists on making bamboo brooms by hand, hoping to preserve an art that is on the verge of being lost.

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

#Taiwancrafts #Taiwantraditions #bamboobrooms #Taiwanbrooms

2026-08-05