梵蒂岡 announces Pope Leo XIV will be discharged and return to the Vatican 4 days after lung cancer surgery
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
梵蒂岡 announced that Pope Leo XIV will be discharged and return to his residence 4 days after lung cancer surgery. The medical team said the surgery was successful and there were no complications. The pope is expected to make a public appearance tomorrow, but the secretary of state said future engagements may need to be adjusted based on his health.
Facts
4 days after surgery
71-year-old Pope Leo XIV
Underwent right lower lobectomy on the 13th
At noon local time
Original去年5月當選
Visit to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru from Nov. 6 to 17
Dragons win Taiwan Series opener as 蔣銲 shuts out the Brothers over 8 innings
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
味全龍隊 foreign pitcher 蔣銲 threw 8 scoreless innings as the starter at Taipei Dome, helping the Dragons beat 中信兄弟 3-0 and claim their first win in the 中華職棒 championship series.
Documentary director 彭啓原 chronicles an old photo studio, hoping to bring local stories to a wider audience
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Documentary director 彭啓原 spent 30 years chronicling the story of an old photo studio in Yangmei, Taoyuan. His book, 《從前從前，有家金淼寫真舘》, won an Openbook Best Book Award and was shortlisted for the Golden Tripod Awards. Recently reprinted with support from 客家公共傳播基金會, the new edition was celebrated at a gathering in Taipei's Dadaocheng district.
蔣萬安 said to have never attended a preschool directors' meeting in 4 years; 林奕華: Taipei and New Taipei have different systems
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
蘇傳臣, head of the childcare support association for 國民黨 New Taipei mayoral candidate 李四川, said Taipei Mayor 蔣萬安 had not attended a preschool directors' meeting in 4 years. Taipei Deputy Mayor 林奕華 explained that Taipei and New Taipei have different systems, while 蔣萬安 pledged to attend if reelected.
Facts
Has never attended a preschool directors' meeting in 4 years
Green Oscars ceremony honors several prosecutors and police officers for protecting forests and curbing environmental crime
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency of the Ministry of Agriculture held an awards ceremony for 「115年度林業及自然保育有功人員」, with 15 individuals and 3 groups receiving awards. Several prosecutors and police officers were recognized for investigating environmental crimes and protecting forests, including prosecutors 嚴維德, 蘇厚仁 and 張雅晴, and police officer 謝睿軒. Business representative 黃國寶 was also honored for contributions to disaster response.
Taichung's Dadun Fine Arts Exhibition opens in Singapore, showcasing the diversity of Taiwan's artistic talent
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 2026 Taichung Dadun Fine Arts Exhibition Cultural Exchange Exhibition opened at the art gallery of the Singapore Chinese High School Cultural Centre, featuring 60 works from past Dadun Award collections. It is the first time the exhibition has traveled to Singapore in its 31-year history.
李四川 backs health insurance law amendments for seniors, hopes to expand 土城醫療園區
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
李四川, the 國民黨 candidate for New Taipei mayor, supports amendments to health insurance laws for seniors and has pledged to expand medical, long-term care and social welfare resources at 土城醫療園區 if elected.
張峻 launches campaign headquarters; 季連成 backs him and pledges to support disaster prevention and management
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Independent Hualien County mayoral candidate 張峻 held an inauguration rally for his campaign headquarters. Executive Yuan政務委員 季連成 attended to show his support and pledged to serve as chief disaster-prevention adviser. 張峻 invited 和碩集團 Chairman 童子賢 to head the campaign headquarters and responded to controversy over past allegations of damaging information about him.
陳素月 forms civic-group support association, pledges to work together on charity if elected
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
陳素月, the 民進黨 candidate for Changhua County mayor, held an inauguration event for the Civic Groups Support 陳素月 Association. She pledged to work with groups including 扶輪社 and 獅子會 to promote charitable causes if elected, and to set up a project office to serve small and medium-sized enterprises.
Oil tanker attacked in Persian Gulf, loses power; crew evacuated safely
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
An oil tanker flying the flag of the Marshall Islands was attacked by an unidentified projectile in the Persian Gulf, lost power and caught fire. The crew was evacuated safely, with no casualties.
吳釗燮 attends Taiwan Forum in Berlin, stresses Taiwan's security is vital to Europe's prosperity
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
National Security Council Secretary-General 吳釗燮 was invited to attend the 「台灣論壇」 in Berlin and speak with European Parliament Security and Defence Committee Chair 史琪曼. He stressed that peace in the Taiwan Strait is vital to Europe's security and economic interests, and called for deeper Taiwan-Europe cooperation in semiconductors, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.
U23 World Cup training squad plays exhibition games in Japan; 宋柏翰 hits home run and drives in 5 to help team win
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan's U23 World Cup training squad traveled to Japan for exhibition games against 梅田學園. 宋柏翰 hit a home run and drove in 5 runs, helping the team win 9-4.
Russian military launches airstrikes, claims to have targeted Ukrainian steelworks and power facilities
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Russia's Defense Ministry claimed it carried out large-scale airstrikes on Ukraine overnight, targeting the 阿塞洛米塔爾 steelworks in Kryvyi Rih, a substation in Zhytomyr, the Zaporizhzhia steelworks and a Black Sea cargo ship.
Yokohama Ryusei says losing weight to just over 40 kilograms for a role took a toll on him physically and mentally
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Japanese actors Yokohama Ryusei and Suzu Hirose visited Taiwan to promote the film “You Are Like the Stars.” Yokohama said he lost weight from just over 60 kilograms to just over 40 kilograms for his role, leaving him physically and mentally exhausted.
iPhone Duo opens for preorders; Hong Kong police receive more than 100 reports of credit card fraud
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
蘋果’s first foldable-screen phone, the iPhone Duo, opened for preorders last night. Hong Kong police received reports from more than 110 residents saying their credit cards had been used without authorization to place orders, involving about 4.6 million Hong Kong dollars. Police said the fraud occurred because 蘋果 had not enabled the “3DS” verification mechanism, and expressed regret that 蘋果 had not taken a more active role in accepting responsibility.
Facts
Reports received from more than 110 residents
About 4.6 million Hong Kong dollars involved
(About NT$18.99 million)
The largest case involved 12 phones worth 229,000 Hong Kong dollars
Legislature to review NCC appointments next week; Cabinet urges rational, professional review
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
立法院 will review the consent cases for NCC commissioner appointments next week. 行政院 urged 立法院 to return to a rational, professional review and exercise its consent authority as soon as possible to restore the independent agency’s operations.
Facts
Acting chair Chen Chung-shu and commissioners Wang Cheng-chia and Wang Yi-hui, 3 people
Their terms expire on July 31
A vacancy with no commissioners in office begins Aug. 1
行政院 as early as April 2024
行政院 nominated again at the end of 2025
行政院 put forward another slate this July
The latest list of 7 nominees, including lawyer Yuan Hsiu-hui
China protests Estonian lawmakers’ attendance at Taiwan National Day reception; lawmaker says exchanges with Taiwan will continue
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Chinese Embassy in Estonia issued a diplomatic note to Estonia over the attendance of several Estonian parliamentarians at Taiwan’s National Day reception. Peikto, chair of the Estonia-Taiwan Friendship Group in the Estonian parliament, said such attendance was customary and would not affect his willingness to continue active exchanges with Taiwan.
Hospital: Pope Leo XIV recovering well, to leave this afternoon for the Vatican
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Pope Leo XIV is recovering well from surgery to remove a lung adenocarcinoma, and 傑梅利醫院 said he would be discharged this afternoon and return to the Vatican. He is expected to recite the Angelus in St. Peter’s Square tomorrow.
Trump pauses sweeping sanctions on Russia; Zelenskyy says move rewards and emboldens Putin
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to waive new sanctions on Moscow would only embolden Russian President Vladimir Putin, and called on allies to continue pressuring Russia.
Facts
Original（中央社基輔17日綜合外電報導）
Depriving millions of people of heating and electricity
Worker killed by falling suspended panels; Keelung City Government orders work halted and investigation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A workplace accident occurred at a construction site on Dade Road in Qidu District, Keelung City. A 30-year-old worker surnamed Chen was suspected of being struck and killed by suspended panels. The Keelung City Government ordered the contractor to halt work immediately and investigate.
U.S. civic groups stage “No Kings Day” rallies for the 4th time, urge early voting in midterm elections
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
U.S. civic groups held “No Kings Day” rallies for the 4th time, aiming to encourage voters to cast ballots early ahead of the Nov. 3 midterm elections. The cross-partisan effort included more than 3,000 events nationwide.
New Taipei City Christmasland opens Nov. 13; lights on Banqiao footbridges unveiled early
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 2026 New Taipei City Christmasland will open on Nov. 13, with its main lantern area in Banqiao District, and run through Dec. 27. Lights on footbridges around Banqiao Station and the New Taipei City Government have already been unveiled. New Taipei City Mayor Hou Yu-ih said 6 satellite light zones will be set up to disperse crowds.
Yang Yung-wei continues pursuit of Olympic points, thanks brother for encouragement and says he is the strongest
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
After the Nagoya Asian Games and world championships, judo athlete Yang Yung-wei said he would continue competing in 3 events to accumulate Olympic points, and thanked his brother, Yang Chun-ting, for his encouragement.
Facts
Men’s 60-kilogram event
Men’s 60-kilogram division, top 4
Finished in 5th place
3 more competitions ahead
Won all 3 consecutive matches after they went into overtime
Political sources: Locally funded health insurance subsidies for seniors differ from Legislature’s demand that central government pay
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Political sources clarified that President Lai Ching-te supports Pingtung County Magistrate Chou Chun-mi’s plan to use locally budgeted funds to subsidize health insurance premiums for people aged 65 and older. This differs from the unconstitutional approach opposed by the central government, in which 立法院 demands that the central government pay. The key difference lies in budget allocation and which level of government bears fiscal responsibility.
Dust and overflowing restrooms at Tainan Station; railway bureau to step up cleaning and inspections
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
On the first day of underground railway service in Tainan, Tainan Station experienced heavy dust, overflowing restrooms and elevator failures. 交通部鐵道局 said it would step up cleaning and inspections and urged the public to help maintain the facilities.
Inflation and debt squeeze; IMF says low-income oil importers shut out of AI gains are most vulnerable
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva said at the annual meeting in Bangkok that low-income oil-importing countries unable to benefit from AI gains are the most vulnerable amid inflation, high debt and the war with Iran. Their debt repayments as a share of government revenue have risen from 8% to 14%.
Global oil prices remain volatile at high levels; 中油 to leave gasoline and diesel prices unchanged next week
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
中油 announced that gasoline and diesel prices would remain unchanged from Oct. 19 to 25: 92-octane unleaded gasoline at NT$31.2, 95-octane unleaded gasoline at NT$32.7, 98-octane unleaded gasoline at NT$34.7, and premium diesel at NT$29.9. To stabilize prices, the government and 中油 will together absorb NT$10.6 and NT$10.9 of the costs of gasoline and diesel, respectively.
Facts
92-octane unleaded gasoline at NT$31.2 per liter
95-octane unleaded gasoline at 32.7 yuan per liter
98-octane unleaded gasoline at 34.7 yuan per liter
Super diesel at 29.9 yuan per liter
A total of NT$10.6 absorbed for gasoline and diesel, respectively
Gasoline and diesel costs absorbed by a total of... NT$10.9 each
Total gasoline and diesel cost absorption expanded to about NT$28.99 billion
Yasukuni Shrine’s autumn festival; Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi offers a ritual offering
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi sent a ritual offering for Yasukuni Shrine’s autumn festival. Cabinet members Minoru Kiuchi and Kenichiro Ueno also visited or made offerings. South Korea’s Foreign Ministry expressed deep disappointment and regret, calling on Japan to face its history.
Facts
The 3-day autumn festival
81st anniversary of Japan’s surrender in World War II
1995
70th-anniversary postwar statement
The Murayama Statement, issued 50 years after the war
Contemporary International Printmaking Art Exhibition presents diverse media and regional perspectives
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Penghu’s first “Ink in Motion—Contemporary International Printmaking Art Exhibition” opened at 洪根深美術館, bringing together more than 10 artists from Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Malaysia, Finland and Taiwan to showcase the diversity of printmaking across media and regions.
Facts
More than 10 artists
The exhibition runs from the 17th through March 29, 116.
Chiayi’s Lucao dry-pond fishing festival opens, recreating early fishing scenes
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Ludong Community in Lucao Township, Chiayi County, held a dry-pond fishing festival, inviting the public to haul in seine nets and recreate early fishing scenes. Fish and shellfish caught from the ponds were given away for free. County Magistrate 翁章梁 and Legislator 蔡易餘 took part in the event, which aims to preserve local traditions and cultural heritage.
Champi could strengthen into a severe typhoon as early as tonight; expected off eastern Taiwan on the 22nd, track still being monitored
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
氣象署 said moderate Typhoon Champi could strengthen into a severe typhoon as early as tonight and is expected to reach waters off eastern Taiwan on the 22nd; its subsequent track remains uncertain. Temperatures in western Taiwan could reach 35 degrees before the 20th, while strengthening northeasterly monsoon winds on the 21st and 22nd will affect weather and temperatures nationwide.
Facts
Temperatures in western Taiwan could reach 35 degrees
Expected to reach waters off eastern Taiwan on the 22nd
Temperatures in western Taiwan could reach 34 degrees Celsius
31 degrees in eastern Taiwan
Lows of around 23 to 25 degrees nationwide
Highs in northern and northeastern Taiwan will fall to 25 degrees
Lows of around 21 degrees
Highs in central and southern Taiwan will remain at 33 degrees
Finalists named for the 2026 Tokyo tournament of the “Roland-Garros Junior Series by ルノー”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The semifinals of the 2026 Tokyo tournament of the “Roland-Garros Junior Series by ルノー” were held, with 2 players each in the boys’ and girls’ draws advancing to the final. The winners will earn a place in the main draw of the junior tournament in Paris in 2027.
Facts
The tournament brings together 32 of Asia’s top players under 17
Being held since Oct. 12, 2026 (Monday, Sports Day)
Film “We Are Aliens” wins Best Animated Feature Film at the 59th Sitges-Catalonia International Film Festival!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The film “We Are Aliens” won Best Animated Feature Film at the 59th Sitges-Catalonia International Film Festival, making director Kohei Kadowaki the youngest winner in the award’s history.
Facts
59th edition
For the first time in 6 years
30 years old
2022
Companies mentioned：NOTHING NEW、TOHO NEXT、MIYU PRODUCTIONS、Sony Music Labels、フィルムエストTV
“Hatena Exhibition,” which drew approximately 16万人 in Tokyo, to open in Nagoya for the first time! Opens Oct. 30 at Fushimi Daiichi Building!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ENTAKU produce will hold the experiential exhibition “Hatena Exhibition,” which drew approximately 16万人 in Tokyo, for the first time in Nagoya at Fushimi Daiichi Building from Oct. 30, 2026, to Jan. 24, 2027.
Facts
Friday, Oct. 30, 2026
Sunday, January 24, 2027
Weekdays: ¥1,800
Weekends and holidays: 2,100 yen
Find out if you’re actually [???] (includes a sticker): 400 yen
Discount of 500 yen for people with a disability certificate
[Soka City only] November limited-time campaign | Refresh your rug for winter! Collection of old carpets, electric carpets and kotatsu blankets | Junk removal by まるっと本舗
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
まるっと本舗, a junk removal service operated by SYSTR株式会社, is running a campaign in Soka City only during November 2026 to collect carpets, electric carpets, kotatsu blankets and other items in bulk, offering a discount of up to 1,000 yen when customers use a flat-rate package.
Facts
Up to ¥1,000 off
Campaign period: November 1, 2026–November 30, 2026
Bringing chefs’ skills into everyday delivery. 味わう launches cloud kitchen operations using “Rokushoku”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Original味わう株式会社は、調理の記録・分析・再現技術「録食」を活用したクラウドキッチンによるデリバリー向け飲食ブランド展開を開始する。第一弾として2026年10月17日より「LUCY's by 京橋キッチン」がロケットナウで販売され、今後は出前館やUber Eatsを通じた出店と新ブランド追加を予定している。
[Gunma Crane Thunders: Game result] Oct. 17 (Sat) vs. アルバルク東京 | りそなグループ B.LEAGUE 2026-27 B.LEAGUE PREMIER league game
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Gunma Crane Thunders faced アルバルク東京 in the りそなグループ B.LEAGUE 2026-27 PREMIER, conceding 100 points while recording just 12 assists in a 1-on-1 matchup. Head coach and player Takuto Nakamura identified the second-half offensive slowdown and defensive errors as issues, and said the team would make adjustments and prepare for its game against Utsunomiya after 1 day off.
“Arrange meeting participants and screens however you like.” NAZOL launches “MTG Sticky Notes,” enabling web meetings on a board
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Nazol株式会社 has added “MTG Sticky Notes,” a new feature that enables web meetings on a board, to its thought-organization platform NAZOL. Participants can be positioned as sticky notes, and shared screens can be viewed side by side. The feature is available on the Free and Business plans.
Premium denim for adults, made possible by the craftsmanship of the Bingo and Bitchu regions. New women’s styles from JAPAN DENIM 2026 AUTUMN WINTER
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社アクセ’s denim project JAPAN DENIM has released 6 new styles (7 items) for the 2026 AUTUMN WINTER season. The collection includes collaborative products with designer brands PHOTOCOPIEU and YANUK.
The inconvenient truth revealed by “hacking” AI: 9割 of the 3,899 companies listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange never appear in “recommendations” from Gemini, Claude or ChatGPT
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A study by COOD株式場 found that more than 9割 of the 3,899 companies listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange were not recommended in non-branded searches on ChatGPT, Gemini or Claude. The findings showed that the volume of news coverage is important for AI awareness.
AI video production platform AZ8 to exhibit at “ad:tech tokyo 2026”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
EVERFIR PTE. LTD. (Hong Kong company Everfir Limited), developer of the AI video production platform AZ8, will exhibit at “ad:tech tokyo 2026,” taking place on Oct. 22 and 23, 2026, and showcase a workflow for producing advertising videos through collaboration between people and AI.
Facts
Oct. 21, 2026
2 days: Oct. 22 (Thursday) and 23 (Friday)
Booth A-54
Oct. 23 (Friday), 15:00–15:40 (Japan time)
More than 2 million users worldwide
Cumulative generations have exceeded 5 million
Production time was reduced by an average of 73.8%
Production costs were cut by approximately 97.1%
Companies mentioned：EVERFIR PTE. LTD.、AZ8、ad:tech tokyo 2026、TOKYO EPIC、Everfir Limited、Seedance、PixVerse
ORICO announces AAA lithium rechargeable batteries with stable 1.5V output and direct Type-C charging — high 500mWh capacity, approximately 1500 reuses, PSE certification and a 4-in-1 cable for cost savings and sustainability
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ORICO has announced AAA lithium rechargeable batteries featuring stable 1.5V output and direct Type-C charging. Their high 500mWh capacity allows them to be recharged approximately 1500 times. Amazon is currently holding its fall mega sale.
Goalball competition opens at the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games: Powered by support from local fans, both the women’s and men’s teams win their opening matches by mercy rule! Women defeat Thailand, men defeat Qatar
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
On Oct. 17, 2026, the first day of goalball preliminaries at the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games in Toyohashi, Aichi Prefecture, Japan’s women’s team won 10-0 over Thailand by mercy rule, while the men’s team defeated Qatar 12-2, giving both teams wins in their opening matches.
Facts
Won 10-0 by mercy rule
Won 12-2
Arai scored the opening goal 57 seconds after the start
They extended their lead to 5-0 by the 6th minute of the first half
Starting with Kimura’s goal at 1 minute 41 seconds into the second half
At 7 minutes 17 seconds into the second half, Yasumuro scored her 3rd goal of the day to reach a 10-point lead
Kaneko opened the scoring with a goal 1 minute 25 seconds into the first half
They conceded a penalty throw in the 10th minute of the first half
Nagano scored consecutive goals 1 minute 30 seconds and 2 minutes 31 seconds after the start to pull away from their opponents
At 8 minutes 25 seconds into the second half, Kaneko scored his 5th goal of the day to reach a 10-point lead
Toshima City Mejiro Garden: Autumn Garden Light-Up “TERASU2026”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“TERASU2026,” a special nighttime light-up event themed around autumn leaves, will be held at Toshima City Mejiro Garden from Nov. 21 to Dec. 6, 2026. Admission is ¥500 for adults and ¥300 for elementary school students. Additional programs include musical performances, yoga and coffee events.
Why grid-scale batteries can be both “electricity consumers” and “power generation facilities”: Webinar to unpack the two-tier transmission charge structure
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ジャパンブランディング株式会社, Japan’s exclusive distributor for GUS Technology batteries, will host an online webinar in early November 2026 explaining the complex transmission charge structure for grid-scale batteries.
TOM WOOD releases limited-edition “Dan Pendant.” All 4 colors, including “Tiger Eye,” available exclusively at Parigot worldwide, go on pre-sale at the Okayama store on Oct. 31 (Sat)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Select shop “PARIGOT,” operated by 株式会社アクセ, will release a limited-edition new model, “Dan Pendant,” from Norwegian jewelry brand “TOM WOOD.” It will go on pre-sale at the Okayama store on Oct. 31, 2026, and be available at all stores and online from Nov. 6.
Facts
Limited to 250 pieces for men and women combined
Price: ¥79,900 (tax included)
Pendant top: 14×14mm
Chain length: 20.5 inches
Companies mentioned：株式会社アクセ、PARIGOT、TOM WOOD、Le GRAND CLOSET de PARIGOT / MEN、Le GRAND CLOSET de PARIGOT / MAN GINZA SIX、PARIGOT ONLINE
FRUITS ZIPPER to release new song “じょい！×３”; free fan-club invitation live at Tokyo Garden Theater to celebrate the release, with the song performed for the first time!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Idol group FRUITS ZIPPER will release its new song “じょい！×３” digitally on Nov. 8, 2026, and hold a free fan-club-only invitation live that same day.
Facts
Wins the Japan Record Awards for 3 consecutive years
Original5thシングルCD『ぱわーオブらぶ / センセーション』
Surpassed half a million on its first day of release
Held its first Tokyo Dome concert this February
Digital release on Nov. 8, 2026 (Sun)
A preview of the song will be released on TikTok / Instagram starting Oct. 18 (Sun)
7-member idol group
Debuted in April 2022
Approximately 3.3 billion views on TikTok
Music video surpasses 78 million views
Won the Japan Record Award 3 consecutive years, starting in 2023
Makes its first appearance on the “76th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen”
In June, the “MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN 2026,” the country’s largest international music awards
23 shows in 18 cities nationwide
Companies mentioned：アソビシステム株式会社、FRUITS ZIPPER、KAWAII LAB.、TikTok、Instagram、Billboard、NHK、MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN 2026
2 days left: Amazon’s “Prime Appreciation Festival” is underway! 6 AGM smartwatch and tablet products at special prices
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
AGM Mobile is selling 3 smartwatch products and 3 tablet models, for a total of 6 products, at special limited-time prices during the "Prime Appreciation Festival" currently underway on Amazon.co.jp. The sale ends on October 19, 2026.
Seiichi Sakakibara of 令和の虎 takes over as one-day manager at Kitashinchi's "awabar Osaka"! Impromptu social media consulting and a guerrilla seminar, with PC in hand, by a company president with more than 500,000 total social media followers draws a huge response 【Event Report】
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Seiichi Sakakibara, representative director of 株式会社EMOLVA, served as one-day manager at the standing bar "awabar Osaka" in Kitashinchi, Osaka, and held an impromptu seminar and consulting session on social media marketing.
Facts
More than 1,000 companies
When the start time of 20:30 arrived
He himself also has more than 500,000 total followers
Provides social media marketing services to more than 1,000 companies
A track record of attracting more than 18,000 job applicants
Influencers with a combined following of 1.9 million and
Weather outlook for the coming week / Typhoon Champi could make landfall in Taiwan! These 2 days will bring the worst impacts, with temperatures plunging and heavy rain; latest track revealed
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
中央氣象署 said this year’s No. 29 typhoon, Champi, continues to rapidly intensify and could become a severe typhoon as early as the evening of the 17th. It is expected to approach waters off eastern Taiwan next Thursday. Friday and Saturday next week are expected to bring the most severe impacts, and a westward shift in its track could mean a landfall.
Facts
This year’s No. 29 typhoon, Champi, could strengthen into a severe typhoon as early as the evening of the 17th.
Champi is expected to move to waters off eastern Taiwan next Thursday (the 22nd).
Next Friday and Saturday (the 23rd and 24th) are expected to be when the typhoon has its most severe impact on Taiwan.
Maximum sustained winds near Champi’s center are 45 meters per second, equivalent to Category 14 winds.
氣象署 estimates there is a very high chance of issuing a sea warning for the typhoon from next Wednesday to next Thursday.
No need to add olive oil or ice cubes when cooking rice in a rice cooker! Insiders say adding these 2 items guarantees fragrant, plump rice, with distinct grains that aren’t dry or hard
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Japan’s 虎牌 says the standard mode on modern rice cookers does not require soaking; only the quick-cook mode requires soaking for 15-30 minutes. It recommends gently washing the rice in cold water and shares tips for cooking rice with sparkling water or mayonnaise to improve its texture.
Facts
With the standard cooking mode on a modern rice cooker, simply start the cooker after washing the rice; there is no need to soak it beforehand.
For quick-cook mode, it is recommended to soak the rice for 15 to 30 minutes before pressing the start button.
Use cold water to wash rice; never use warm or hot water.
After adding water and stirring the rice for the first wash, pour it out quickly within 10 seconds.
When cooking rice with sparkling water, carbon dioxide bubbles help the grains stand upright and heat evenly.
Adding a small spoonful of Japanese mayonnaise or a few drops of salad oil before cooking helps lock in the moisture inside the rice grains.
Never just rinse your thermos with water! A doctor explains how to clean it properly; failing to wash it thoroughly means swallowing bacteria and toxins
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
U.S. doctor Jason Singh warned that reusable water bottles can harbor 40,000 times as much bacteria as a toilet because inadequate cleaning allows biofilms to form. Experts recommend scrubbing them daily with hot water, dish soap and a bottle brush, then letting them air-dry; soaking faucet outlets in hot water also helps kill germs.
Facts
Jason Singh, a family physician in Virginia, warned that reusable water bottles that are only rinsed and not washed can harbor 40,000 times as much bacteria as a toilet seat.
After bacteria from the human mouth enter a water bottle, a biofilm can form in as little as 48 hours.
An estimated 65% to 80% of human infections are closely linked to biofilm formation.
To clean a water bottle, use hot water and dish soap and scrub it with a bottle brush.
Soaking a faucet outlet in freshly boiled water for about 5 minutes can effectively reduce the amount of E. coli.
Guarding the gateway to the Red Sea! Houthis launch lightning offensive; loss of this city could trigger an even greater crisis
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Yemen’s Houthi rebels reignited fighting in October 2026, quickly surrounding the strategic city of Taiz and taking control of the gateway to the Red Sea. They also launched airstrikes on Saudi facilities to pressure the country to withdraw its forces, triggering a severe humanitarian crisis in the area.
Facts
The Houthis have completely surrounded Taiz, the third-largest city in southwestern Yemen
Taiz is a transportation hub controlling access between the Red Sea coast and southern Yemen
The Houthis seized control of Perim Island, a key chokepoint in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait
More than 600,000 people in Taiz who rely on humanitarian aid are currently unable to receive assistance
The Houthis launched their first attack on Maashiq Palace in Aden, the seat of Yemen’s government
Yemen’s civil war reignited in July 2026 after Saudi airstrikes hit Sana’a airport
The Houthis forced the closure of a major airport in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, for several days
台灣好市多’s offer of a free beanie for signing up for automatic membership-fee payments sparked controversy, while 10 little-known free services were also revealed.
Facts
台灣好市多 is holding a limited-time promotion from October 17 to October 25, 2026. Primary cardholders who sign up for automatic membership-fee payments at a warehouse will receive a limited-edition 好市多-logo beanie for free.
好市多 members can get a free household card for one family member living at the same address. Eligible relatives include a spouse, parent, sibling or child aged 18 or older.
Members who buy eligible tires through a 好市多 tire center get professional installation, nitrogen inflation and road-hazard protection for up to 5 years.
Members who buy and install tires at 好市多 can get free tire rotations, wheel balancing and tire-pressure checks throughout the tires’ service life.
Eligible members can book a professional, free hearing test at a 好市多 Hearing Aid Center; they are not required to buy hearing aids.
In the United States, purchases of eligible TVs, computers or large appliances at 好市多 come with an extended warranty of up to 2 years; in Taiwan, the retailer offers a strict returns and exchanges policy.
Where to watch the Taiwan Series? A guide to the Dragons-Elephants schedule / 沈春華 confirms husband 胡鎮康 fell ill half a year ago / Champi could strengthen into a severe typhoon tonight | Oct. 17 evening news
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The 2026 Chinese Professional Baseball League Taiwan Series opens at Taipei Dome on October 17, with 味全龍 facing 中信兄弟. The entire series will be played at the dome. Veteran anchor 沈春華 also publicly revealed that her husband 胡鎮康 had fallen ill, while 氣象署 forecast that Typhoon Champi would strengthen and affect Taiwan’s weather.
Facts
The 2026 Chinese Professional Baseball League Taiwan Series opens at 17:05 on October 17 at Taipei Dome, with 味全龍 facing 中信兄弟.
緯來體育台 and 愛爾達體育1台 will broadcast Game 1 of the Taiwan Series, with a livestream available on Hami Video.
味全龍 starting pitcher 蔣銲 had a 1.49 ERA this season, winning the ERA and strikeout titles.
Veteran anchor 沈春華 confirmed that her husband 胡鎮康 unexpectedly fell ill more than half a year ago, and that she became his caregiver.
Typhoon Champi could strengthen into a severe typhoon as early as the evening of the 17th and is forecast to reach waters off eastern Taiwan on the 22nd.
台中市政府 will set up a public screening in an outdoor plaza, with Games 1 and 2 shown at Fengyuan Yangming Civic Plaza.
Starlink enters the Indian market! Local telecom giant braces for a head-on challenge: Competition is welcome, but follow the rules
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
India telecom giant Reliance Industries welcomes Starlink and other companies entering the satellite communications market, provided they comply with local regulations. SpaceX says it has received approval and is ready, as both sides actively vie for market share. Regulators, however, warn that a license is not final authorization to operate.
Facts
SpaceX says it has received Indian government approval and is ready to provide high-speed internet
Indian authorities clarify that a license does not amount to authorization for commercial operations
Musk mocks Ambani as “prime minister” on social media
Do you need to change your motorcycle’s oil after riding 1000 kilometers? Experts reveal the “best time for an oil change”—you’ll know at a glance, save money and ride longer
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Taiwan motorcycle makers 光陽、三陽 and 山葉 dispel oil-change myths, recommending that riders adjust oil-change intervals based on the manufacturer’s manual, engine type and riding conditions. They also warn against using cheap, poor-quality oil to protect the engine.
Facts
Major domestic motorcycle makers 光陽（KYMCO）and 三陽（SYM）say modern motorcycles should be serviced according to the manufacturer’s maintenance manual, rather than following the outdated rule of changing the oil every 1000 kilometers.
三陽 recommends the first oil change and filter cleaning at 300 kilometers during a new motorcycle’s break-in period. Under normal conditions, it recommends checking and changing the oil every 3 to 6 months.
With better-quality oil, air-cooled engines can go a little longer between changes, at 1500–2000 kilometers. Oil-change intervals for water-cooled engines can stretch to 3000–5000 kilometers.
Used-car dealer 戴蒙 warns that some shops may use low-grade mineral oil costing just 30 to 40 yuan for oil priced below 150 yuan on the market. Long-term use increases the risk of engine wear.
Lai Ching-te says waiving health insurance premiums for seniors is “settled”! Cho Jung-tai had just called it unconstitutional, leaving Huang Kuo-chang stunned: “What’s going on?”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
A People’s Party proposal to make health insurance free for seniors passed its third reading on the 16th, prompting Premier Cho Jung-tai to criticize it as unconstitutional and warn of budgetary trade-offs. People’s Party Chairman Huang Kuo-chang, meanwhile, released a video showing Lai Ching-te had previously supported the policy, questioning what he called the DPP’s contradictory stance.
Facts
The People’s Party pushed for an amendment to Article 22 of the Senior Citizens Welfare Act, proposing that the central government fully subsidize health insurance premiums for people aged 65 and over whose comprehensive income tax rate bracket is below 20%. The amendment passed its third reading at the Legislative Yuan on the 16th.
Health and Welfare Minister Shih Chung-liang estimates that after the amendment, primary health insurance payers aged 15 to 64 will face an increase of more than about 3000 yuan in premiums per person each year.
President Lai Ching-te said at the founding rally for Pingtung County Magistrate Chou Chun-mi’s campaign headquarters that he had heard health insurance premiums for seniors aged 65 and over would be waived starting next year, and that this would settle the matter.
If the cost is covered by tax revenue instead, taxpaying households could pay more than 8000 yuan extra.
Check your bankbook! Labor Insurance Bureau’s October payment calendar: subsidies of more than 100,000 in a single payment, with 6 major benefits deposited on “this day”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Ministry of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Insurance has released its October benefit payment calendar, covering labor insurance pensions, national pension benefits and more. Labor insurance pensions could rise by 5.52% to 5.99% in 2027, with October 29 a key payment date. People can check their individual information.
Facts
Labor insurance pensions are projected to rise by a cumulative 5.52% to 5.99% in 2027
National pension childbirth benefits are scheduled to be deposited on October 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29
Families with a single birth who meet the government’s childbirth subsidy requirements can receive a total of 100,000 yuan
National pension funeral benefits are scheduled to be deposited on October 15
Farmers’ monthly retirement savings and the old farmers’ allowance will be deposited on October 20
Labor insurance pensions, occupational accident insurance pensions, labor pension monthly payments and other benefits will be paid on October 29
Wage subsidies for prenatal checkup leave and accompanying prenatal checkup and childbirth leave will be deposited on October 30
Saved 10 million for retirement! Family of 75-year-old with dementia can’t access life-saving funds as account is frozen; bank reveals the harsh reason
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
In Japan, a 75-year-old man with dementia, Mr. Susumu, was unable to confirm his wishes in person at a bank counter, so the bank froze his account in accordance with the law. His family was consequently unable to use the 50 million yen he had painstakingly saved for retirement to pay for care. The case highlights the difficulties of managing financial assets in an aging society. Experts recommend arranging an authorized representative or setting up a family trust while still healthy, in case it is needed later.
Facts
A 75-year-old Japanese man with dementia, Mr. Susumu, had savings of 50 million yen, but the bank refused to let him withdraw the money because he could not personally verify his wishes at the counter.
The bank refused to allow his spouse to withdraw the money because it could not confirm the account holder’s personal presence and intention to make the transaction.
Taiwanese banks are similarly required by law to exercise caution. If an older person cannot clearly express their wishes due to dementia, a stroke or other factors, the bank will refuse to let family members withdraw money on their behalf.
Family members can apply to a court for a declaration of guardianship or assistance. They may handle financial matters on the person’s behalf only after a ruling appoints a guardian.
Experts recommend registering a trusted second- or third-degree relative with the bank as an account representative through the “authorized representative designation system” while still healthy.
A family trust can stipulate that assets be managed by a trustee and specify that the funds may be used only for the person’s medical care, retirement and caregiving expenses.
AI caught in a “fatigue trade”! Investors tire of repeated debates over tech promises; analyst says the market needs revenue proof
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
The Philadelphia Semiconductor Index posted its longest losing streak in 18 years. Analysts say investors are growing fatigued by uncertainty over AI returns, and the market is shifting toward demanding evidence of revenue growth rather than simply chasing hype.
Facts
The Philadelphia Semiconductor Index fell for an eighth consecutive trading day, marking its longest losing streak in 18 years.
Nicholas Colas, co-founder of DataTrek Research, has dubbed the current market trend an “AI fatigue trade.”
Peter Berezin, chief economist at BCA Research, estimates that AI companies need to generate $10 trillion in annual revenue to earn a reasonable return on investment in AI data centers.
CoreWeave, seen as a bellwether for AI borrowing demand, fell to its lowest level since July.
StoneX analyst Yi Fu Lee says investors now want clearer evidence that capital spending can translate into sustainable revenue growth.
Luke Rahbari, co-portfolio manager of Rational Equity Armor Fund, says investors are finding it increasingly difficult to make sense of the noise surrounding AI.
〈友達運動會〉Paul Peng: Group shifts toward a “quasi-holding” structure, grooming little tigers to become big tigers
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
友達 has announced a shift to a quasi-holding structure, strengthening corporate management and developing independently operated subsidiaries. The move will advance three major business pillars and new technologies while improving transparency around revenue and profits.
Facts
友達 will adopt a “quasi-holding” structure, using corporate management to make revenue and profits from businesses such as automotive and vertical markets more transparent.
友達 expects the share of direct panel sales to fall to 30% by 2030, with 70% of revenue generated by new platforms extending panel technology.
星耀能源 became independent this year and plans to pursue a listing in the future.
友達 will revitalize its aging factory sites by replacing old facilities or adjusting asset uses to improve capacity utilization and overall operating efficiency.
友達's 3 main business pillars are smart displays, smart mobility and vertical markets, and all of the relevant leaders are now in place.
AI trade unwinding deals heavy blow to global hedge funds; Asia-focused funds hit first
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Amid U.S. inflation data coming in higher than expected, global hedge funds suffered heavy losses, while funds focused on Asian markets plunged 2.6% in a single day. AI trades were massively unwound, CoreWeave bond yields climbed above 15%, and South Korea's KOSPI index plunged 8%, reflecting concerns about returns on AI investments and a reduction in risk exposure.
Facts
Global fundamental equity long-short funds fell 2.9% in the week through Oct. 15.
Funds focused on Asian markets plunged 2.6% in a single day this Thursday.
CoreWeave bond yields climbed above 15%.
South Korea's KOSPI index plunged 8% on Thursday, closing at a six-month low.
高盛 said 3 major strategy funds have each fallen by more than 0.8 percentage points on the same day on 3 occasions this year.
Stock-picking funds focused on Asian markets fell 6.8% in the first half of October.
U.S. stocks fell sharply at Friday's close, with AI-related shares such as 博通 coming under renewed selling pressure.
Companies mentioned：CoreWeave、博通、高盛、Erlen Capital Management
Foreign holdings of U.S. Treasuries rebounded in August; Canada and Belgium posted the biggest increases, while China's holdings fell to an 18-year low
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Data released by the U.S. Treasury showed that foreign holdings of U.S. Treasuries rebounded to $9.33 trillion in August, up more than $83 billion from July. Canada, Belgium and the U.K. increased their holdings, with the U.K.'s holdings topping $1 trillion for the first time; Japan reduced its holdings to raise funds for foreign exchange intervention, while China's holdings fell to an 18-year low.
Facts
Foreign holdings of U.S. Treasuries rose to $9.33 trillion in August, up more than $83 billion from July.
Japan's U.S. Treasury holdings fell by $36 billion in August to $1.1 trillion.
China's U.S. Treasury holdings fell by $27 billion in August to $591 billion, the lowest level in 18 years.
Canada's U.S. Treasury holdings rose by $38 billion in August to nearly $465 billion.
The U.K.'s U.S. Treasury holdings rose by $11 billion in August, topping $1 trillion for the first time.