US lawmakers propose measure to deter a Chinese invasion of Taiwan，warning an attack would bring devastating sanctions
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
U.S. Representative Young Kim introduced the “People’s Republic of China Taiwan Invasion Deterrence Act,” proposing the establishment of an interagency “China Sanctions Task Force” to identify targets for sanctions and deter a Chinese invasion of Taiwan. The bill aims to establish a U.S. sanctions response plan in preparation for China’s use of force against Taiwan or attempts to bring it under political control.
Kuo Che-min’s request for NT$200 million bail and release from detention denied；appeals court orders 2-month extension
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Defendant Kuo Che-min, owner of “88會館,” was sentenced at trial to 11 years and 8 months in prison for involvement in illegal overseas remittances and gambling. Kuo offered NT$200 million in bail and sought release from detention, but the appeals court rejected the request and decided to extend his detention by a further 2 months.
Lai Yung-chuan, a national policy adviser to the Presidential Office and honorary chairman of 嘉義城隍廟, has died at the age of 90. He served as chairman for 8 years, laying the temple’s foundations and working to serve the community, earning the deep trust of people from all walks of life. He was also close to President Lai Ching-te.
Beigang Mazu makes first journey east to Japan，showcasing Taiwan’s religious soft power to the world
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A Mazu statue from 北港朝天宮 traveled to Japan for the first time since the temple was founded, for a cultural exchange event titled “Heavenly Mother: First Voyage East to Japan.” The event aims to showcase Taiwan’s religious cultural soft power to the world and deepen exchanges between Taiwan and Japan.
Japanese music group reschedules Hong Kong concert after it was linked to “Unit 731”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Japanese music group “XG” changed the dates of its Hong Kong concerts from July 31 to August 2 after Chinese internet users criticized July 31 for evoking Japan’s “Unit 731.” The organizers faced criticism for lacking historical sensitivity.
Taiwan Power Company’s 2026 recruitment exam for new graduates was held, with an average pass rate of 14.63%. Starting salaries for new hires are about NT$38,000, while field workers such as power technicians nicknamed “Spider-Man” can earn more than NT$40,000, the company said.
New Taipei mayoral contenders strike a warm note：Su Chiao-hui and Lee Szu-chuan both wish mothers a happy Mother’s Day
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
New Taipei mayoral candidates Su Chiao-hui of the Democratic Progressive Party and Lee Szu-chuan of the Kuomintang campaigned on Mother’s Day while sending messages of thanks to all mothers, adding a warm note to the election contest. The candidates met with residents in their respective districts and stressed the importance of women’s policies.
Peña visits Taiwan and meets Tsai Ing-wen，reviews bilateral cooperation and reaffirms Taiwan-Paraguay ties
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Paraguayan President Santiago Peña visited Taiwan and met with former President Tsai Ing-wen to discuss bilateral cooperation. He also visited Tainan, where he toured AI facilities and cultural sites and reaffirmed friendly ties with Taiwan.
Tainan expands special inspections；pinhole camera found in smoke detector at 研醫明醫美診所
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Tainan City Health Bureau expanded special inspections of aesthetic medicine clinics, and a hidden camera was found in a beauty room at 研醫明医美診所. Concerns have been raised over patient privacy, and the bureau is stepping up inspections of aesthetic medicine facilities across the city.
NBA defending champions Thunder rout Lakers for 3rd straight game，one win away from Western Conference finals berth [Video]
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The オクラホマシティ・サンダー defeated the ロサンゼルス・レイカーズ 131-108 in the NBA playoffs, moving within reach of a place in the Western Conference finals. The Thunder recorded their 7th straight win without a loss in this season’s playoffs, while injuries to key players have hurt the Lakers.
Tzu Chi marks 60th anniversary；vice president says it is a key partner in whole-of-society resilience
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
慈済基金会 held a ceremony in Hualien to mark its 60th anniversary, and Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim highlighted the organization’s important role in promoting “whole-of-society defense resilience.” She praised its humanitarian aid and ability to mobilize society as a foundation of Taiwan’s resilience and thanked it for its contributions at home and abroad.
Wu Tsung-hsien and Lin Kuo-chang visit Yilan’s Datong Township，present platforms to win Indigenous support
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Kuomintang candidate Wu Tsung-hsien and Democratic Progressive Party candidate Lin Kuo-chang, both running for Yilan County magistrate, visited Indigenous communities in Datong Township and presented their respective platforms. Wu emphasized development in Indigenous communities and cultural preservation, while Lin stressed respect for traditional land rights and long-term care policies.
Indonesia’s Dukono volcano continues to erupt，hampering search for missing hikers
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Mount Dukono in Indonesia continues to erupt, hampering the search and rescue effort for 2 missing Singaporean hikers because of bad weather and volcanic activity. The death of 1 Indonesian hiker has already been confirmed, and the 2 missing hikers are feared unlikely to have survived. The incident has highlighted the difficulties and risks of search and rescue operations in natural disasters.
Taipei women’s and children’s hospital to be inaugurated in June，will offer all-female medical staff clinic
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an announced that the Taipei Women and Children Specialty Hospital will open in June. The hospital will house the country’s first cold-chain breast milk bank and Taiwan’s first long-term care facility for children across the full range of needs. It will also offer a specialized “Good Doctor Clinic” staffed by a team of female doctors in the future.
Taipower：New corporate identity mainly for digital use；old lettering to remain on building signs
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan Power Company explained that it will use its old and new designs side by side following a NT$960,000 overhaul of its corporate identity and fonts. The company will continue using its traditional “于右任題字” typeface on buildings and signs, while applying the new design to digital products and employee business cards, keeping costs down as it responds to digitalization and the green energy transition.
Mother’s Day is about more than carnations；social welfare groups urge recognition of caregivers’ heavy burden
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
On Mother’s Day, social welfare organizations are drawing attention to the heavy burden on caregivers. They have highlighted, with examples, the health problems and emotional strain faced particularly by mothers, emphasizing the need for support. They are calling for donations to specific programs, including support for people in vegetative states and early intervention for children with intellectual disabilities.
One month until the 2026 World Cup；political turmoil and sky-high ticket prices cast a shadow
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
With 1 month remaining until the 2026 World Cup, soaring ticket prices, political tensions in the United States under the Trump administration and the ongoing war in Iran have combined to turn anticipation into concern, casting a shadow over the tournament.
Taipei Masters and Stars Music Festival：Maestro Graff conducts symphony concert
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 2026 Taipei Masters Star Festival enters its 8th year, with a symphony concert conducted by Graf scheduled to take place starting August 1. The festival aims to nurture a new generation of musicians capable of making an impact internationally, and will feature renowned conductors and students from leading music conservatories at home and abroad.
2 Taichung police officers arrested a suspected drug driver, but the investigative team refused to take custody because no urine test had been conducted. The suspect was released and later referred to prosecutors on an escape charge. After admitting fault, the suspect received deferred prosecution. The incident exposed shortcomings in the police response.
Yang Li-wei’s fire dance act wins over Britain’s Got Talent again，earns “Golden Buzzer” and direct spot in finale [Video]
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Yang Li-wei of Taiwan’s 即將成真火舞團 won the golden buzzer in the semifinals of “Britain’s Got Talent,” sending her straight to the final. Her fire performance captivated the judges and audience, and judge Simon Cowell praised her as a “superstar.”
Taiwan representative to Switzerland：Taiwan uses its democratic advantage to work with the international community to safeguard prosperity and stability
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Wang Szu-wei, Taiwan’s representative to Switzerland, said at the opening ceremony of an international AI training camp held in Switzerland that Taiwan would draw on the advantages of democracy to work with the international community to maintain prosperity and stability in the digital age.
Revolutionary Guard：If Iranian oil tankers are attacked，US military bases will be targets for retaliation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned that if an Iranian tanker is attacked, it would retaliate against U.S. bases and enemy vessels. The warning came amid rising tensions between the United States and Iran.
Kaohsiung Criminal Investigation Corps launches anti-fraud picture book；“Detective Cat Squad” teaches children to avoid scams
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Kaohsiung Criminal Police Brigade has released an anti-fraud picture book, “Detective Cat Mi Team: The Game Virtual Currency Trap,” to teach children about common game virtual currency scams. It aims to instill awareness of fraud prevention from an early age.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang chairs State Council executive meeting，calls for progress on local government debt resolution
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Chinese Premier Li Qiang chaired a State Council executive meeting and called for efforts to resolve local government debt problems and strengthen the ability of local governments to repay their debts independently. Local government debt stood at about 56.6 trillion yuan at the end of February.
Huang Kuo-chang：If Executive Yuan wants to advance special drone legislation，persuading the public is most important
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s Legislative Yuan passed an opposition-proposed special military procurement act that excludes drones and other items. Taiwan People’s Party Chair Huang Kuo-chang said that if the Executive Yuan moves ahead with a special act on drones, persuading the public and the legislature must be the top priority.
Suspect in child theft case counter-accuses others of assault；National Police Agency chief says no favoritism and respects judicial proceedings
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The son of Taiwan National Police Agency Director-General Chang Jung-hsing was countersued for assault after clashing with a thief at his hot pot restaurant. Chang said individuals must take responsibility for their own actions and that he respects the judicial process.
Chief engineer falls from ladder and dies while repairing switchboard；TTSB says no fall-protection measures were in place
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The chief engineer of the fishing vessel “詠勝2號” fell from a ladder and died while repairing a switchboard. An investigation report by the Taiwan Transportation Safety Board found that no fall-prevention measures were in place and that the work was being carried out in an unstable posture. The board recommended that the fishing company and the Ministry of Agriculture strengthen safety measures.
Chung Shan Girls’ High School’s Lee Ming-tsu uses AI to innovate teaching，fostering creativity in Chinese class
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Li Ming-ci, a teacher at Zhongshan Girls High School, was selected as an exemplary educator for her innovative teaching, incorporating AI tools into Chinese-language classes to foster students’ creativity. During the pandemic, she had students turn interviews with family members into articles and make short films using AI.
France investigates X platform；Musk’s outspoken remarks prompt lawsuit from LGBTQ groups
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
French prosecutors are investigating the Xプラットフォーム, and Elon Musk was sued by French LGBTQ+ groups after criticizing the French justice system. The investigation covers a wide range of issues, including political interference, child sexual abuse images, deepfake pornography and Holocaust denial.
Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang visited 華為’s chip fundamental technology laboratory and spoke with founder Ren Zhengfei. Ding emphasized strengthening basic research and original innovation capabilities, as well as achieving breakthroughs from “zero to one.” This is an important move toward strengthening China’s scientific and technological capabilities.
Supreme Court orders suspension of new law to block sentence reduction for former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes ordered a temporary suspension of the enforcement of a new law that could lead to a reduced sentence for far-right former President Bolsonaro. The law could have applied to Bolsonaro, who was sentenced to 27 years in prison for attempting a coup last September.
[Omotesando and Harajuku Diet Gym 808TOKYO] The time to work hard for summer is now. Mother’s Day campaign underway / ¥30,000 off the enrollment fee
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The Omotesando and Harajuku diet gym “808TOKYO” will run its “Mother’s Day Campaign” from May 10 to May 31, 2026, offering ¥30,000 off the enrollment fee to people looking to start dieting for summer. The gym features one-on-one instruction from female trainers and the convenience of being able to attend without bringing anything.
Community-born “信長デイトナ” launches retail rewards program using FiNANCiE points—offering logo T-shirts as a token-linked shopping experience— / 田中麗華, founder of “エクスパンス,” tries on the item
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社クロスワン has launched a retail rewards program using FiNANCiE points for the “信長デイトナ” project. Community members can purchase project-logo T-shirts with points, offering a new shopping experience linked to the token economy.
[Free admission for those aged 18 and under!] Singer and actor Kumiko Mori is coming to Isogo Ward!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Singer and actor Kumiko Mori will hold a concert at 横浜市磯子区民文化センター杉田劇場. With support from 文化庁, admission is free for those aged 18 and under, while accompanying guests can attend at half price.
Yokkaichi eyelash perm and Parisienne specialist “ケイトステージラッシュ四日市店” to launch a new “eyelash perm + eyebrow wax set” menu in May 2026—treatment menu, prices and visitor guide
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Yokkaichi eyelash perm and Parisienne specialist “ケイトステージラッシュ四日市店” will begin offering a new “eyelash perm + eyebrow wax set” menu on May 1, 2026. Customers can receive treatments for their eyelashes and eyebrows in a single visit, making for an efficient total beauty experience.
Case study achieving a 5-fold increase in order conversion rate revealed for the first time! Seminar on highly precise targeting using “company lists × public information × generative AI” to be held May 27 (Wed.)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社経営参謀 will hold a seminar on highly precise targeting on May 27. Founders of Olly株式会社 and 株式会社ピースフラットシステム will share case studies and know-how on using generative AI to increase order conversion rates 5-fold. A networking reception is also planned after the seminar, providing concrete strategies and an opportunity to connect for business owners and sales managers.
[7-minute walk from Ebisu Station] Storage facility “スペラボ渋谷広尾1丁目店” to open on June 1, 2026!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Storage facility “スペラボ” will open its Shibuya Hiroo 1-chome location, a 7-minute walk from Ebisu Station, on June 1, 2026. A special discounted rate will be offered as part of the opening campaign, and the facility is available to individuals and businesses alike. Contracts can be completed without contact or in-person meetings, and users can start using the facility in as little as 1 hour. Features include double security and monitoring for added peace of mind.
BUDDiiS’s nationwide hall tour “FLORiiA” to be streamed exclusively on U-NEXT! SNS watch party also confirmed for the day
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
U-NEXT will exclusively livestream the additional and final performances of “FLORiiA,” the nationwide hall tour by EBiDAN dance-vocal group BUDDiiS, on June 7. Monthly subscribers can watch at no extra charge, and an SNS watch party will also be held.
MV for “The Hearties,” a track from MECHATU-A’s 1st mini album “On-Deck!,” to be released, along with a share campaign! The song is also available for early streaming!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
MECHATU-A, a VTuber unit affiliated with にじさんじ, has released the music video for “The Hearties,” a track from its 1st mini album “On-Deck!” To mark the release, an MV-sharing campaign will run from May 10 to May 25, 2026, with limited-edition wallpapers offered to participants.
Solve the case over a bowl of katsudon! “まかない刑事の聴取メシ” (森田蓮次) begins serialization on Comic DAYS from May 10!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
森田蓮次’s new manga series “まかない刑事の聴取メシ” will launch on Comic DAYS on May 10. It is an unusual gourmet comedy police drama in which suspects confess after eating delicious staff meals.
Day 2 of the IRO-certified International Rescue Dog Examination concludes
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
On May 9, 2026, Day 2 of the IRO-certified International Rescue Dog Examination was held at the Yatsugatake International Rescue Dog Training Center, with wide-area and rubble search exercises for missing people. House of Representatives member Akinori Eto served as the event chair.
Avail to appear at “Sapporo Collection 2026 SPRING/SUMMER” on May 17 (Sun.)! Featured products to be sold online and in stores
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Casual wear and footwear brand “アベイル” will appear at “Sapporo Collection 2026 SPRING/SUMMER,” taking place on May 17. The latest outfits from its original brands featured on stage will be sold through its online store and アベイル stores nationwide.
[Preorders now open on Makuake] Beauty influencer “こーき,” with 280,000 total followers, launches “1KEMEN 日焼け止めジェル,” a sunscreen for men
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Beauty influencer “こーき,” with 280,000 total followers, is launching “1KEMEN 日焼け止めジェル,” a sunscreen for men, for presale on Makuake. Its 6-in-1 formula helps prevent stickiness and a white cast and can be washed off with facial cleanser, supporting men’s everyday skincare.
[NEW OPEN] “ヴィラ楓倉 -KAGURA-,” a residence resort of remarkable scale, to grand open in Nasu-Shiobara on June 21, 2026!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“ヴィラ楓倉 -KAGURA-,” a luxury villa of remarkable scale limited to 2 groups per 1-day period, will grand open in Nasu-Shiobara on June 21, 2026. This completely private retreat offers spring-fed hot-spring baths and fine dining, providing a stay for adults who appreciate quality.
和歌山県 will hold “100億企業創出シンポジウムin和歌山” on May 25, 2026, for small and medium-sized business owners aiming for annual sales of ¥10 billion. The event aims to support growth strategies, offer ideas for resolving challenges and foster connections among business owners, contributing to the revitalization of the regional economy.
Making its first appearance at マルイファミリー溝口 in Kanagawa! Make the rainy season easier and more enjoyable. KONCIWA limited-time pop-up
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
KONCIWA株式会社 will hold a limited-time pop-up shop at マルイファミリー溝口 from May 13, 2026. The shop will showcase innovative umbrellas to make the rainy season more comfortable, and offer discounts of up to 25% off and hands-on events.
“Buddhism as a way of life,” a conversation with former entrepreneur and monk 新川瑜龍, to be held on June 3 (Wed.) [仏教BAR]
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The business community “参謀” will host a networking event, “仏教BAR,” in Hamamatsucho on June 3, 2026, featuring 新川瑜龍, a former entrepreneur who is now a monk, and exploring the theme “Buddhism as a way of life.” The event offers business owners facing pressure at work a relaxed opportunity to reflect on their state of mind, addressing the spiritual needs of busy professionals.
Announcement of contract agreement with player Yuma Tsuboi (new signing)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
T.T彩たま has agreed to a new contract with table tennis player Yuma Tsuboi for the 2026-2027 season. Tsuboi will become the team’s first player from Saitama Prefecture and said he is determined to repay local fans for their support.
[BUZZ × REO・TAKARA] Childhood friends and top dancers gather at one of Shibuya’s largest studios! “BUZZ PARTY” workshop and special showcase to be held!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
BUZZ GROUP, which operates the rental studio “BUZZ,” will hold “BUZZ PARTY,” a collaborative event with childhood friends and top dancers REO and TAKARA, at BUZZ Shibuya TOWER on May 16, 2026. The one-day event for dance enthusiasts will feature a men-only workshop, a two-part showcase, and limited-edition merchandise sales.
TV anime “The Maid Just Wants to Eat”: Anime collaboration illustration “Working Maid and Eating Maid” released to mark Maid Day! Collaboration cafe event set to be held at キュアメイドカフェ!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
TV anime “The Maid Just Wants to Eat” and “Heroine? Saint? No, I’m an All-Works Maid (Proud)!” have released a collaboration illustration to mark Maid Day. A collaboration cafe event at キュアメイドカフェ has also been confirmed. A giveaway campaign featuring prizes signed by voice actors will also be held.
Taste 3 varieties of long-aged vintage sake “Koshiki no Bisho” in Ginza: “Sake Tasting Set” available at THE GRAND GINZA from May 10 (Sunday)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Originalパソナグループの匠創生が提供する長期熟成古酒ブランド『古昔の美酒』の3銘柄「INISHIE 匠 No.1」「天貴」「梅響」を飲み比べできる「利き酒セット」が、2026年5月10日より銀座の「THE GRAND GINZA」内「THE GRAND 47」で提供開始されます。これは日本の古酒文化を広める取り組みの一環です。
Companies mentioned：パソナグループ、株式会社匠創生、THE GRAND GINZA、THE GRAND 47、ANA、日本テレビ