2026 Taiwan News: High City Wins Historic Election & More

Japan’s Ruling Party Secures Historic Victory in Parliamentary Elections

Japan’s House of Representatives held early elections under the leadership of Prime Minister Takishi Hayao, with voters showing strong engagement. Official estimates indicated a record 26.1% of eligible voters cast ballots before election day on February 8, the highest turnout in the nation’s electoral history. Despite snowfall in many areas of Tokyo on February 8, voters turned out in large numbers. Early returns confirmed the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) would secure a majority in the 465-seat chamber, ultimately reaching the 310 seats needed to claim a two-thirds majority. This marks the largest victory for a single party in Japan’s postwar era and the highest record for the LDP since its founding in 1955. The opposition “Center-Reform United” suffered a significant setback, losing over 100 seats, dropping its representation to below 67. The result signals a strong endorsement of Prime Minister Hayao’s leadership and is expected to consolidate her authority.

The election results come as geopolitical tensions in the region remain high, and Japan continues to navigate a complex relationship with China and the United States. President Lai Ching-te of Taiwan issued a statement congratulating Hayao on her victory, expressing hope for continued collaboration between Taiwan and Japan to promote peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.

Cold Front Brings Low Temperatures to 21 Counties and Cities

A cold front impacting Taiwan is expected to bring low temperatures to 21 counties and cities, excluding Penghu, through the morning of February 9, according to the Central Weather Bureau. Localized temperatures are expected to remain below 10 degrees Celsius. Temperatures will begin to rise during the day, with highs of 16 to 18 degrees Celsius in the north and east, and 21 to 22 degrees Celsius in the central and south. A weaker cold front is forecast to arrive on February 11 and 12, with residents advised to be aware of significant temperature differences between day and night.

Video of Taiwan’s Indigenous Submarine Released, Showing Underwater and Torpedo Launch

Taiwan’s domestically produced submarine, the Hai Kun, continues to undergo sea trials, and Taiwan Shipbuilding Corporation released a video on February 8 documenting the first dive, rudder control, antenna deployment, and the launch of a training torpedo. President Lai Ching-te stated the achievement was a result of the dedication and professionalism of the navy, Taiwan Shipbuilding, and the industrial supply chain, urging continued support for all involved. Former President Tsai Ing-wen also expressed hope for continued public support for the submarine’s development.

Director of ‘Century Blood Case’ Film Apologizes, Halts Post-Production

The 1980 Lin family massacre has been brought back into focus with the release of the film “Century Blood Case.” Minister of Culture Lee Yuan expressed serious concerns about the film’s handling of the sensitive historical event, questioning the content and citing legal issues related to a lack of consent from the victims’ families and disputes with cast and crew. Director Hsu Kun-hua acknowledged that his position caused harm to the victims’ families and apologized, stating he would immediately suspend all post-production work on the film. Actor Kou Shih-hsun also issued an apology on February 8, expressing remorse for causing secondary harm due to a lack of consideration and understanding of the historical tragedy.

US Arms Sales to Prioritize Countries with High Military Spending and Strategic Importance

President Trump signed an executive order establishing a “America First” arms transfer strategy, prioritizing the sale and transfer of military equipment to partners who invest in their own defense capabilities, play a key role in US plans and operations, or contribute to US economic security. Analysts suggest this development is positive for Taiwan, which should qualify as a “priority partner” provided the Legislative Yuan approves related military spending.

Thai Election: Pheu Thai Party Leads, Prime Minister Anutin Expected to Form Coalition Government

Thailand’s general election took place on February 8, with voting concluding at 5:00 PM local time. According to Thai PBS, as of midnight on February 9, the Pheu Thai Party maintained a lead, securing 195 seats in the 500-seat House of Representatives. The People’s Party won 114 seats. Pheu Thai did not achieve a majority and Anutin Charnvirakul will need to form a coalition government, with future cooperation intentions closely watched. Both Pheu Thai and the People’s Party expressed a desire to maintain friendly relations with Taiwan and enhance bilateral cooperation before the election.

Taiwanese Diver Dies During Salvage Operation in Japan, Preliminary Cause Identified as Oxygen Toxicity

A 57-year-vintage Taiwanese diver participating in an operation to salvage remains from a coal mine in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan, died on February 7 after experiencing convulsions during a dive. Fellow divers stated the preliminary cause of death was believed to be oxygen toxicity leading to convulsions and drowning. The operation organizers stated they would prioritize support for the diver’s family and would not abandon the salvage effort.

Man Arrested for Arson at Taipei Metro Stations, Claims Ignored Petitions

A man was arrested after setting fires in restrooms at the Daan Forest Park and Ximen stations of the Taipei Metro on February 8. Police identified the suspect as a 70-year-old man who allegedly committed the act to draw attention to his grievances regarding a land redevelopment project in Taichung City. He is being investigated for public endangerment.

From Scalpel to Chocolate: Taiwanese-American Creates Brand to Share Island’s Flavors

Formosa Chocolate, a brand based in the San Francisco Bay Area, is bringing Taiwanese flavors to a wider audience. Founder Kimberly Yang, a Taiwanese-American, transitioned from a career in medicine to pursue her passion for chocolate making, training in Belgium. She now focuses on incorporating ingredients like passion fruit and Alishan oolong tea into her creations, aiming to share Taiwan’s story through her brand.

Feyreid Included on Taiwan’s Classic Round Lineup, Sends Message in Mandarin

Cleveland Guardians outfielder Josh Feyreid and Chicago Cubs minor league infielder Long were both added to Taiwan’s 30-man roster for the World Baseball Classic due to their Taiwanese heritage. Feyreid recorded a video expressing his gratitude for being selected and delivered a message in Mandarin: “Taiwan,加油!” (Taiwan, add oil!).

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