Tseng Sheng-an's go-ahead 3-run homer sets record, helps 味全龍 take 2 straight wins in Taiwan Series
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
In Game 2 of the CPBL championship series, 味全龍 beat 中信兄弟 3-1 for their 2nd straight win. 20-year-old position player Tseng Sheng-an hit a go-ahead 3-run homer to set a team record and was named MVP, but suffered a thigh cramp as he left the game. Starter Cristopher Mercedes earned the win with a quality start.
Facts
The Dragons beat 中信兄弟 3-1
Won 2 straight games
Yesterday's opening game drew a capacity crowd of 40,000
Today's Game 2 also drew 39,568 spectators
Went 18 consecutive innings without scoring, breaking the team record for most consecutive scoreless innings
Hit a home run in the championship series at the age of 20 years and 204 days
The Dragons' previous record for youngest player to homer was held by Chang Tai-shan, at 22 years and 4 days
Drove in all 3 runs
Cristopher Mercedes threw a total of 85 pitches today
More than 1,800 arrested in violent French protests; authorities vow to hold perpetrators accountable under the law
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
French Interior Minister Nunez said more than 1,800 people were arrested during and after the violent protests. Bambar, head of the 法國零售暨貿易聯合會, said around 1,500 stores suffered damage, with businesses potentially facing losses of hundreds of millions of euros.
Facts
More than 1,800 arrested
1,800 people have been arrested
Around 1,500 stores and retail businesses have suffered losses
Businesses could face losses of “hundreds of millions of euros”
No safe landing for officials implicated in corruption: Analysis says CCP uses Huang Qifan case to warn retired officials
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
China's former Chongqing mayor Huang Qifan is under investigation for disciplinary violations, and the CCP's discipline watchdog has stated that there is no way out for those involved in corruption. Analysts say the move aims to purge corrupt officials and political risks ahead of the 21st Party Congress, while warning retired officials.
Facts
Huang Qifan, who retired nearly 10 years ago
74-year-old Huang Qifan
Served in Chongqing for about 15 years
Stepped down as Chongqing mayor at the end of 2016
Just 10 years after stepping down as mayor
The CCP's upcoming Fifth Plenum, scheduled for the 26th
Xi Jinping's speech at the CCDI plenary session in January
Iranian parliament approves appointment of new defense minister, who is well versed in military manufacturing and procurement
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Iran's parliament approved the appointment of Akraki as the new defense minister, ending the acting arrangement. The new minister has more than 40 years of experience in the defense industry and is on a sanctions list. He pledged to rebuild the defense industry's infrastructure and respond to the threat of the United States potentially using the “Mother of All Bombs.”
Chinese coast guard and research vessels mount incursions at multiple locations; 海巡署 responds effectively
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
海巡署 said China deployed coast guard and research vessels today to conduct gray-zone incursions at multiple locations in waters near Hualien, Pingtung, Kaohsiung and Dongsha. 海巡署 tracked their movements throughout and dispatched vessels to monitor them firmly and broadcast warnings to drive them away, successfully neutralizing the threat.
Chen Chi-mai backs his protégé, urges voters to give his “other self” a chance
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai campaigned for DPP Kaohsiung City Council candidate Chang Yao-chung, calling him his “other self” and asking residents to give him a chance.
Lin Kuo-chang opens campaign headquarters in southern Yilan; Lai Ching-te says he is running to develop Yilan, not for fame or fortune
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Lin Kuo-chang, the 民進黨 candidate for Yilan County magistrate, held an opening rally for his campaign headquarters in southern Yilan. President Lai Ching-te attended to show his support, saying Lin was running to develop Yilan rather than for fame or fortune, and pledging full support for a range of projects if Lin is elected.
Nagoya Asian Para Games opening ceremony; Taiwan's Liu Ya-ting and Liu Wei-chi to serve as flag bearers
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The opening ceremony of the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Para Games takes place tonight. Track and field athletes Liu Ya-ting and Liu Wei-chi will jointly serve as flag bearers for Taiwan's delegation. In the English-alphabet parade order, Taiwan follows Syria and precedes Tajikistan, entering 36th.
Facts
36th in the order
Competing in the event for the 5th consecutive time
The British newspaper 金融時報, citing people familiar with the matter, reported that IT consulting company 埃森哲 is seeking to sell its China business in a deal worth up to $1.5 billion.
Violence erupts repeatedly at French protests; luxury stores including 愛馬仕 and LV looted
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
More than 500,000 protesters took to the streets across France to protest the rising cost of living. Violence broke out in some areas, and luxury stores including 路易威登 (LV), 愛馬仕 (Hermès) and 蘋果 (Apple) were looted in cities such as Paris and Bordeaux. Police recorded 140 protests.
Kao Hung-an opens campaign headquarters, with key blue-and-white figures showing support
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Kao Hung-an opened her campaign headquarters and supporters' association, with Kuomintang Chair Cheng Li-wen, Taiwan People's Party founding chair Ko Wen-je and Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen among the key blue-and-white figures attending to back her re-election bid.
Tsai Ing-wen and Cho Jung-tai back Liu Chien-kuo, urge voters to help transform Yunlin
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Former President Tsai Ing-wen and Premier Cho Jung-tai traveled to Yunlin County to campaign for Democratic Progressive Party county magistrate candidate Liu Chien-kuo，urging voters to help Yunlin transform by turning out the vote。Both praised Liu’s record，including advancing the 三 agricultural laws and addressing dust from the Zhuoshui River，and pledged central government support for his vision for AI agriculture，the drone industry and medical infrastructure。
Asian Tour’s Macau Open：Wang Wei-hsuan wins title，chokes up as he hopes his mother can see it from heaven
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
At the Macau Golf Open on the 亞巡賽，Taiwan’s Wang Wei-hsuan went into a playoff against South Korean star Im Sung-jae in the final round and won with a walk-off birdie。After the tournament，he choked up as he said he hoped his mother，who died 三 years ago，could see his achievement from heaven。
Pope’s first public appearance since lung cancer surgery：he greets crowds at the Vatican
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Pope Leo XIV made his first public appearance since lung cancer surgery in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican，greeting pilgrims and calling on them to put aside selfish ambitions。
Thailand launches free platform to boost AI adoption；experts say skills training should be strengthened
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Thai government has launched a free AI integration platform called “TH-AI Passport，” offering tools including ChatGPT and Google Gemini for public use。The goal is to provide 5 million Thai residents aged 15 and above with free access for a year。About 1.5 million people have registered so far，but experts question whether the policy can effectively improve people’s AI skills，saying training should be strengthened and homegrown AI models developed。They also raised concerns about procurement transparency。
Facts
Plans to provide 5 million Thai residents aged 15 and above with free access for a year
About 1.5 million people have registered to use the “TH-AI Passport” platform
Ahead of US-Japan military exercises，Chinese forces conduct simultaneous drills in 4 sea areas；4 landing ships fire together in rare display
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Ahead of the US-Japan “Keen Sword” joint exercises，Chinese forces conducted live-fire drills in the Bohai，Yellow，East and South China seas。4 Type 071 landing ships from the Southern Theater Command’s navy fired together in a rare display。
Chiang Chi-chen forms medical and long-term care support group；Ho Hsin-chun outlines policies at unity rally
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Kuomintang Taichung mayoral candidate Chiang Chi-chen formed a medical and long-term care support group，pledging to implement preventive medicine and improve policies for seniors。Democratic Progressive Party candidate Ho Hsin-chun held a unity rally，highlighting plans to advance metro construction and Six-Star municipal social welfare policies。
Hsieh Lung-chieh campaigns at Shanhua cattle market，hopes to deepen cooperation between Tainan and Kaohsiung with Ko Chih-en
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Kuomintang Tainan mayoral candidate Hsieh Lung-chieh canvassed at the Shanhua cattle market，outlining policies including increased child-rearing allowances and raising the Double Ninth senior citizens’ gift to NT$3,000。He also expressed hope of deepening cooperation between Tainan and Kaohsiung with mayoral candidate Ko Chih-en。
Facts
Key News of the 2026 Nine-in-One Elections
Double Ninth senior citizens’ gift to be raised to NT$3,000
Increased child-rearing and development allowances for ages 0 to 18
Double Ninth senior citizens’ gift to be raised to NT$3,000
Senior citizens’ card allowance to be raised to NT$1,000
Russia fires missiles at Ukraine；Polish air force takes preventive measures to protect airspace
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
In response to Russia’s missile attack on Ukraine，the Polish air force carried out precautionary operations to ensure the safety of its airspace and suspended flights at Lublin and Rzeszów airports。
Chen Ting-fei launches young businesspeople’s support group，aims to build a city Tainan residents can be proud of
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Democratic Progressive Party Tainan mayoral candidate Chen Ting-fei attended the launch of the “2026 Young Businesspeople for Chen Ting-fei Support Group，” proposing a youth bureau with real authority to coordinate resources and pledging to achieve the goal of “welfare on par with the six special municipalities” to build a city Tainan residents can be proud of。
Typhoon Chanthu approaches；sea warning could be issued as early as the evening of the 21st
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Central Weather Administration said a sea warning for severe typhoon Chanthu could be issued as early as the evening of the 21st。The storm is expected to have its most significant impact on Taiwan on the 23rd and 24th，but its track remains uncertain。
Facts
As early as the evening of the 21st
The most significant impact on Taiwan is expected on the 23rd and 24th
Moving at 20 kilometers per hour
Maximum sustained winds near the center are 53 meters per second
Shohei Ohtani jersey sells for NT$65 million，setting personal auction record
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A jersey worn by Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani in the Tokyo Dome season opener sold for US$2,055,700（about NT$65.47 million），setting a record for the highest auction price for one of his jerseys.
Copper items stolen from several Tainan solar power plants；police use big data to arrest 1 suspect
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Madou Precinct of the Tainan City Police Department used big data analysis to arrest a man surnamed Kuo suspected of stealing copper items from several solar power plants and making more than NT$320,000 from their sale；police also seized evidence including K-dish drug paraphernalia.
Chiang Wan-an discusses transport links in Songshan Airport relocation debate，reiterates elevated highway or airport MRT can solve the problem
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Chiang Wan-an reiterated that the transport issue between Taoyuan Airport and Taipei could be resolved in about 30 to 40 minutes via the Wuyang Elevated Expressway or the Airport MRT，and responded to criticism from Shen Po-yang and Cho Jung-tai.
Facts
Taipei is just 36 minutes from Taoyuan Airport
A problem that can be resolved in about 30 or 40 minutes
Pingtung Hakka songs stir emotions as 6 ensembles showcase what they have learned
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
屏東縣政府 has promoted a Hakka arts and culture training program，with 6 music groups taking part this year. The groups held a showcase titled “Songs That Stir the Heart，Eight-Tone Music in Harmony” today at the Hakka Cultural Center，presenting what they learned by blending tradition and modernity.
Facts
A total of 6 music groups took part in the training this year
Ministry：台電 urges 富崴 to resolve syndicated loan dispute，with completion and grid connection as the goal
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
經濟部 said 台電 is a third party to the syndicated loan dispute between 富崴 and the banking group，and that its oversight of payments is limited to subcontractors. 台電 urged 富崴 to handle the dispute properly and make completing the wind turbine installation and connecting to the grid its top priority.
Lu Hsiu-yen to head Chiang Wan-an campaign；Chiang Chi-chen：Will give full support
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taichung Mayor Lu Hsiu-yen will head Chiang Wan-an’s campaign headquarters. Chiang Chi-chen，the 國民黨 candidate for Taichung mayor，said he would give his full support.
Hou You-yi and Lee Szechuan campaign across party lines for 民眾黨 candidate Chen Yi-chun
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
New Taipei Mayor Hou You-yi and 國民黨 candidate for New Taipei mayor Lee Szechuan attended the founding ceremony of a support group for 民眾黨 council candidate Chen Yi-chun. Huang Kuo-chang said this was Hou’s first time campaigning across party lines，and that 民眾黨 would fully support Lee Szechuan.
Wildfire haze ravages Indonesia；conservation groups rescue dozens of critically endangered orangutans
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Forest and land fires in Indonesia have burned for months，producing toxic haze that has blanketed parts of Southeast Asia. Conservation groups said dozens of critically endangered orangutans have been rescued from wildfires in recent weeks；a conservation agency in West Kalimantan province on Borneo said it has evacuated 51 orangutans since August 6.
Facts
Rescued dozens of critically endangered orangutans
Evacuated 51 orangutans
Since August 6
The 5 cities with the worst air pollution worldwide
Zelensky：Russia still deliberately attacking after Trump announces energy ceasefire
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Russia has deliberately attacked Ukrainian energy facilities 76 times since U.S. President Donald Trump announced a one-week energy ceasefire，and has struck substations in several regions.
A Saudi-led coalition AH-6i reconnaissance helicopter crashed in Najran near the border with Yemen，killing 2 pilots. It was the coalition’s first loss of life since clashes resumed in July.
Imperial Palace Ote Rest House opens November 3，with first-ever café and tourism information hub
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Imperial Palace Ote Rest House in Japan opened on November 3，with its first-ever café operated by 猿田彥咖啡，and also serves as a tourism information hub. The facility cost about 7.5 billion yen，with JTB Communication Design and 丹青社 handling its renovation，aimed at improving visitor comfort and promoting travel information about Japan.
Facts
Opens November 3
Total floor area of 2,800 square meters
The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace received 2.13 million visitors in 2025
Record high of 2.23 million visitors
Original所占比例接近整體6成
Total cost of about 7.5 billion yen
A 3,000-yen fee per person
Companies mentioned：中央社、每日新聞、猿田彥咖啡、JTB Communication Design、丹青社
Sheng Chi-shih targeted by online abuse；Brothers manager：Focus on fans who support us
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
中信兄弟隊 lost the opening game of the Chinese Professional Baseball League championship series to 味全龍隊. Starting pitcher Sheng Chi-shih was targeted by malicious online comments，and the team has filed a police report and taken legal action. Manager Ping Li-chi urged fans to focus on those who support the team.
Explainer／Why did protests erupt in France？From a “teacher shortage” to 800,000 taking to the streets and a 143-year-old city hall nearly destroyed by fire，a look at the latest situation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
A lack of education resources in France sparked student protests，which later expanded into nationwide demonstrations over the cost of living and public services. On October 17，hundreds of thousands took to the streets；violent clashes and arson were reported in several areas，and the historic city hall in Limoges was badly damaged. The government condemned the violence and launched an investigation.
Facts
The French General Confederation of Labour (CGT) estimated that about 800,000 people took to the streets in nationwide demonstrations on Oct. 17, while the French Interior Ministry estimated about 550,000.
A city hall in Limoges that was 143 years old was set on fire during the demonstration, causing its roof to collapse and leaving the building almost completely destroyed.
The protests were initially launched by students, whose main demands concerned education resources, including addressing teacher shortages, aging classrooms and school buildings, and heavy coursework.
A 17-year-old in Saint-Étienne is suspected of losing a hand after being struck by a stun grenade used by the National Gendarmerie. Prosecutors have called for an investigation.
President Emmanuel Macron said those who damage public property, attack government agencies or businesses, or loot amid the chaos would be prosecuted and punished.
Is power or a chip shortage really not the biggest bottleneck to AI development? 博通's Hock Tan and 英特爾's Lip-Bu Tan are both worried about “this”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
英特爾 CEO Lip-Bu Tan and 博通 CEO Hock Tan said that, compared with hardware shortages, rising financing costs and concerns about returns on investment are the biggest bottlenecks to AI development, though they remain confident that demand for computing power will continue to grow in the long term.
Facts
英特爾 CEO Lip-Bu Tan and 博通 CEO Hock Tan believe a shortage of funding is the main bottleneck to AI development.
Hock Tan said that funding is a greater obstacle than shortages of semiconductors, memory chips, or electricity.
Lip-Bu Tan stressed that financing costs are continuing to rise and that there are concerns about returns on investment.
Higher bond yields could increase financing costs for data center construction and chip purchases.
Hock Tan believes the memory shortage may no longer exist in 1 year.
Lip-Bu Tan estimates that the AI industry is unlikely to see a significant slowdown in the next 2 or 3 years.
Current demand for computing infrastructure already exceeds 博通's capacity to supply it.
Unlimited repeat purchases of 1 全聯 bun! Foodies praise its “simple ingredients, springy and firm texture, and rich aroma”: affordable and delicious, a hit with the whole family
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Frozen buns from 全聯 have sparked discussion on social media, with 義美 and 餐御宴 receiving high praise. 義美 came out on top for its simple ingredients, no added water, and high value for money, while 餐御宴 has become a daily favorite thanks to the springy texture and aroma of its traditional starter-making process.
Facts
Online users recommended 義美 milk buns, saying they are tasty and affordable and that the product label says not a drop of water is added.
餐御宴 brown sugar sourdough buns were recommended by many online users, who called them delicious and praised their simple ingredients.
One consumer said they eat 餐御宴's brown sugar and white buns almost every day.
大玉成 Shandong-style buns have a somewhat firmer texture and are suitable for slicing open and filling.
10/18 International Evening Brief | Trump’s Russia sanctions waiver draws fire from both parties; deadly fire at Canadian military base; AMD spends $8.2 billion to acquire World Labs, founded by Fei-Fei Li
U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order on the 16th exempting Russia from key sanctions under the Graham Act, which were scheduled to take effect on the 18th.
AMD announced it would acquire World Labs, founded by Fei-Fei Li, in a deal valued at about $8.2 billion.
During a military exercise in Norway, an onboard camera in a Chinese-made rental car recorded the access code for the gate of a military facility.
Online claims say he would “stop the Double Ninth Festival senior-citizen allowance” if elected? Shen Boyang personally debunks the rumor: “I won’t just keep it—I’ll make it more interesting”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Shen Boyang, the DPP’s candidate for Taipei mayor, debunked rumors about stopping the senior-citizen allowance on the Double Ninth Festival, saying the payments should be tied to recording older people’s stories to pass on their wisdom.
Facts
Shen Boyang debunked an online rumor, denying that he would stop the Double Ninth Festival senior-citizen allowance if elected.
Shen Boyang said he would not only continue the senior-citizen allowance but also make it more meaningful.
Shen Boyang believes the key to honoring older people is to preserve their stories and life experiences.
Shen Boyang said Taiwan could look to other countries and have libraries collect messages older people wish to pass on to younger generations.
Shen Boyang stressed that the distribution method should remain flexible and not put pressure on older people, but could include fun elements.
On the scene: Beloved cat Pusheen, the favorite of renowned Japanese singer Ado, officially launches in Japan! First-ever collaboration pop-up store opens in Shibuya
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Singer Ado helped bring the popular American cat Pusheen to Japan through its brand owner, Pusheen Corp. A collaboration pop-up store opened in Tokyo’s Shibuya in October, featuring merchandise supervised by Ado for her birthday celebration and marking the first time the IP has been officially managed in Japan.
Facts
Singer Ado helped bring the popular American cat Pusheen to the Japanese market through its brand owner, Pusheen Corp.
The limited-time “Ado × Pusheen POP UP STORE” will run at HMV&BOOKS SHIBUYA in Tokyo’s Shibuya from Oct. 16 to 31.
The collaboration incorporates Ado’s affection for Pusheen, which she loves, and her wish to celebrate her 24th birthday on Oct. 24.
Pusheen originated in an American webcomic in 2010, and images and GIFs related to the character are estimated to have been shared more than 20 billion times worldwide.
The pop-up store will display more than 30 types of Pusheen merchandise and impose purchase limits to prevent reselling by scalpers.
Original官方線上商城「Ado Official Goods Shop」於10月16日晚間8點至26日晚間11點59分開放聯名周邊線上預購。
This is Pusheen Corp.’s second collaboration, following a pop-up store in Chicago, U.S., in summer 2026.
ATM withdrawal alert! New withdrawal rules at 2 Taiwanese banks take effect nationwide on 10/28. Miss the deadline, and you may not be able to withdraw even if you have money in your account
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
To curb fraud, 永豐銀行 and 台灣企銀 are shortening the validity periods for cardless withdrawal codes in October and November 2026, respectively. 永豐銀行’s codes will be valid for just 5 minutes. Here is a roundup of withdrawal limits and validity periods at 8 state-owned banks, with a reminder to act in time to avoid being unable to withdraw cash.
Facts
Starting Oct. 13, 2026, 永豐銀行 will shorten the validity of cardless withdrawal codes from 30 minutes to 5 minutes and QR Codes from 2 minutes to 1 minute.
台灣企銀 plans to shorten the validity of cardless withdrawal codes from 30 minutes to 10 minutes by the end of November 2026.
Cardless withdrawal codes from 臺灣銀行, 土地銀行, 合作金庫銀行, and 華南銀行 are valid for 15 minutes.
Cardless withdrawal codes from 第一銀行, 兆豐銀行, and 彰化銀行 are valid for 10 minutes.
Most of the 8 state-owned banks have set a daily cardless withdrawal limit of NT$30,000.
The new mobile banking app from 永豐銀行 will also be subject to the new rules starting Oct. 28, 2026: codes valid for 5 minutes and QR Codes for 1 minute.
Will the political tailwind fail to help Ho Hsin-chun’s election prospects? Scholar reveals 3 reasons the polls are hard to turn around: she cannot overcome the “Lu-Chiang double-core”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
A Kuomintang-commissioned Shih Hsin University poll for the Taichung mayoral election found Chiang Chi-chen leading Ho Hsin-chun, 39.8% to 28.7%. Chinese Culture University professor Niu Tse-hsun said the “Lu-Chiang double-core” of Chiang and Lu Hsiu-yen has a clear advantage, while Shen Boyang’s political tailwind for Ho has limited effect.
Facts
Kuomintang-nominated Legislative Yuan Deputy Speaker Chiang Chi-chen leads DPP candidate Ho Hsin-chun, with support of 39.8% compared with 28.7%.
Chiang Chi-chen has significantly greater appeal and political clout than Ho Hsin-chun.
Lu Hsiu-yen’s approval rating for her performance remains high, and she is actively campaigning across Taiwan.
Shen Boyang’s political tailwind is helping Ho Hsin-chun, but its effect is limited.
Among undecided voters, 31.5% support Chiang Chi-chen and 22.0% support Ho Hsin-chun.
No more having to write China! Japan loosens national qualification registration rules, allowing doctors, nursery teachers, and others to list “Taiwan” in the nationality field
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Japanese government has eased its national qualification registration system, allowing “Taiwan” to be entered as a regional name and resolving administrative registration difficulties for Taiwanese people living in Japan.
Facts
The Japanese government is revising rules for national qualifications overseen by various ministries, including those for doctors and nursery teachers, so that “Taiwan” can be entered in the nationality field on related qualification registration documents.
As of the end of fiscal 2025, more than 70,000 Taiwanese people were living in Japan.
A Japanese government review of 322 national qualifications overseen by ministries and agencies found that, as of 2022, 90 qualifications still strictly required applicants to enter only a nationality.
As of this October, all national qualifications have lifted the restriction requiring a single nationality.
After the adjustments were completed, a total of 100 national qualifications clearly allowed applicants to enter regional names such as “Taiwan.”
Why has France been engulfed by riots? From a high school with “no teachers” to 550,000 people taking to the streets, the causes and consequences explained
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
A severe teacher shortage at French public secondary schools sparked student protests, which converged with high debt, austerity budgets and cost-of-living problems, leading to 550,000 people taking to the streets in riots on Oct. 17. The budget vote became a turning point.
Facts
Mass nationwide demonstrations erupted in France on Oct. 17, with the interior minister estimating that about 550,000 people took part and police arresting more than 1,800.
The incident began on Sept. 17, when students at Saint-Exupéry High School in Créteil, a southeastern suburb of Paris, blockaded the campus over a severe staff shortage.
France’s public debt has reached about US$4 trillion, or around 119% of gross domestic product (GDP), its highest share since World War II.
The Lecornu government unveiled its 2027 budget proposal on Oct. 1, planning to cut spending by about 43 billion euros and aiming to lower the deficit from 5.4% of GDP to 5%.
During the student protest movement, more than 6,000 people have been arrested, according to France’s Justice Ministry, 87% of them minors.
Admitting on livestream, “My biggest regret is not winning in 2024,” Huang Kuo-chang says that if he were justice minister, “no one would get away”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
People’s Party Chairman Huang Kuo-chang livestreamed with Chen Chih-han, known as the Gym, on the 17th, admitting that his failure to win in 2024 was a regret and saying that if he were justice minister, he would handle cases according to the law without needing to detain suspects. They discussed the 2028 election, the timeline for a Blue-White alliance, and the challenges facing the opposition camp.
Facts
Huang Kuo-chang livestreamed with internet personality Chen Chih-han, known as the Gym, on the 17th.
Huang Kuo-chang said that if he were justice minister, cases could be handled without detention or denying suspects access to visitors, as long as they were processed normally under the law.
The Gym speculated that if political power changed hands, there could be hundreds of corruption cases to investigate, and it might even take 10 years to finish.
Huang Kuo-chang cited former Democratic Progressive Party Secretary-General Hung Yao-fu, who is currently in Japan, and questioned whether he feared political retribution.
The Gym hopes related Blue-White disputes can be resolved before June 2027 to complete their alliance.
Unplugging appliances really can save electricity! Expert reveals 5 appliances you should never unplug: it can raise your bill and make them more likely to break
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Appliance expert Mr. 486 and 台灣電力公司 offered household energy-saving advice, saying Wi-Fi routers, smart appliances, printers and refrigerators should not be frequently unplugged, as this could affect their functions or cause malfunctions. By contrast, small appliances such as electric kettles, coffee makers and hair dryers should be unplugged after use to effectively reduce standby power consumption.
Facts
Appliance expert Mr. 486 said that 4 types of appliances, including Wi-Fi routers, smart appliances, printers and refrigerators, do not necessarily need to be unplugged when not in use for a short time.
If an inkjet printer is unplugged before it has completed its shutdown process, the print head may not return to its proper position, increasing the risk of clogged nozzles.
Frequently unplugging smart appliances such as washer-dryers may, over time, wear down the contacts on plugs and outlets and affect the stability of the connection.
Taiwan Power Co. said digital set-top boxes with a red indicator light are a common little “standby power monster” in the home.
Interview: TOYOTA ARENA TOKYO opens with a new model for shared development! Toyota Group teams up with 東京電擊 to create a smart-city landmark
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
三社 in the Toyota Group opened TOYOTA ARENA TOKYO on Oct. 3, 2025, as the new home court of 東京電擊. The venue combines mobility technology with LEED certification, a first for a Japanese sports venue, and uses e-Palette to enhance visitor experiences and disaster-prevention functions.
Facts
TOYOTA ARENA TOKYO officially opened on Oct. 3, 2025, becoming the new home court of 東京電擊.
The venue was jointly developed by 豐田汽車, 豐田不動產 and 豐田阿爾瓦克東京.
TOYOTA ARENA TOKYO is the first sports venue in Japan to receive U.S. LEED green building certification.
A dedicated elevator capable of carrying large vehicles was installed outside the venue, allowing e-Palette vehicles to be transported directly to each floor.
Yoshihiro Oba, assistant manager of the Business Promotion Office in the Venue Business Division at 豐田阿爾瓦克東京, said the seats were arranged in an oval design to ensure clear sightlines.
The venue is working with 東京都 through a public-private partnership to promote e-Palette tours and rentals of personal mobility devices.
The team officially registered CUE6, an AI basketball robot that holds the Guinness World Record for the longest basketball shot, as a team player.
Why did ancient imperial consorts have “2 red dots” at the corners of their mouths? It wasn’t for beauty! The mysterious signal was actually for the emperor’s convenience
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article examines the true purpose of the “面靨” worn at the corners of ancient imperial consorts’ mouths, noting that in the Tang dynasty it served as a signal to decline the emperor’s bed during menstruation. It also describes related customs, including gold rings in the Han dynasty and red lanterns in the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period.
Facts
The “面靨” dots worn at the corners of Tang dynasty consorts’ mouths were a signal that they could not attend the emperor during menstruation.
Ancient courts considered sexual relations during menstruation inauspicious, believing they could affect the fortunes of the country.
In the Han dynasty imperial harem, gold rings were worn to signal that sexual relations were inadvisable during menstruation.
During the 五代十國 period, the imperial harem signaled menstruation by hanging red lanterns or tying red cords.
The 面靨 makeup later evolved into a folk adornment symbolizing beauty and charm.
Typhoon 薔琵 could head straight for Taiwan! Latest storm impact probability: “12 counties and cities at 40%” — Taipei, New Taipei, Keelung and Taoyuan included
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The track of severe Typhoon 薔琵 could take it straight toward Taiwan, with the most severe impact expected from Friday to Saturday. Hualien County has the highest storm impact probability at 50%, while 11 other counties and cities, including Taipei, New Taipei, Keelung and Taoyuan, are also at 40% or higher. The Central Weather Administration could issue a sea warning as soon as Wednesday night and a land warning on Friday. Experts urged the public to keep their plans flexible.
Facts
Typhoon 薔琵 is forecast to have its most significant impact on Taiwan from Friday to Saturday (the 23rd to the 24th).
According to the latest data from the Central Weather Administration, Hualien County has the highest storm impact probability, at 50%.
The Central Weather Administration could issue a sea warning for the typhoon as early as Wednesday night or Thursday.
A total of 12 counties and cities have a storm impact probability of 40% or higher.
Weather expert Wu Sheng-yu said Typhoon 薔琵’s wind radius had reached the sea-warning boundary, 100 kilometers offshore, by 8 a.m. on the 23rd.
“Mayor, listen up!” Liang Yuci turns the streets into a city-government exam room, taking questions on technology, transportation and livelihood issues
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Pingtung City mayoral candidate Liang Yuci held a street-side city-government forum on the 18th, inviting local elected representatives to take part as residents. She spoke with the public about issues including technology industry development, shuttle transport for older adults and people-centered spaces, and pledged to improve transportation and promote digital services.
Facts
Pingtung City mayoral candidate Liang Yuci held the “Mayor, Listen Up! ver. Pingtung” event on the 18th.
County councilor Li Shih-bin and councilor candidates Tsai You-ting and Li Ching-sheng attended the event as residents.
Liang Yuci recently helped establish a Ubike station at the Pingtung Branch of Kaohsiung Armed Forces General Hospital.
Liang Yuci previously ran a 四-year mobile service station, a concept similar to a mobile library.
Liang Yuci said that if elected mayor, she would promote digital services to make things more convenient for residents across the city.
A new free attraction has opened in Taiwan! “Beautiful scenery, relaxing and easy to get to,” linked with an art museum — location and event details
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Yonghe District Office in New Taipei City will hold the “2026 乐动川端．点亮艺文廊道” event on Oct. 23, combining an arts and culture walk, a picnic and fireworks over the water. The newly opened 川端橋 connects the Yang San-lang Museum of Art and Kishu An, offering residents of Taipei and New Taipei a free outing destination.
Facts
The Yonghe District Office in New Taipei City will hold the “2026 乐动川端．点亮艺文廊道” event from 4:30 p.m. on Oct. 23 at Yonghe Green Light Riverside Park.
At 8:30 p.m., the event will for the first time launch low- and mid-altitude fireworks from a floating platform about 80 meters long.
川端橋 spans the Xindian River, connecting Taipei City and Yonghe District in New Taipei City. After renovation and restoration, it retains the distinctive features of a major bridge built during Japanese rule.
The arts and culture route begins at the Yang San-lang Museum of Art and connects Wangxi Villa, 川端橋 and Kishu An in Taipei City, forming a walking route of about 2 kilometers.
A limited 1,000 picnic mats will be available at the event. Groups of 3 or more can claim one, while supplies last.
After renovation, 川端橋 was converted for the exclusive use of pedestrians and cyclists.
The event uses mixed-reality technology to recreate historical scenes from 川端橋’s past.
LINE year-end cleanup! “2 settings left undone” and your account will be deleted outright — stickers and chat history all wiped
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
LINE announced that accounts linked only to Facebook and not bound to a phone number will be deleted after the Dec. 31, 2026 deadline, as part of efforts to improve security and prevent fraud.
Facts
LINE requires users whose accounts are linked only to Facebook and do not have a phone number bound to them to complete setup by 11:59 p.m. on Dec. 31, 2026, or their accounts will be deleted.
Once an account is deleted by the system, its stickers, coins, purchased items and important chat records cannot be recovered or used again.
LINE requires each account to have a separate phone number primarily to improve account security and reduce the risk of fake accounts and fraud.
To check whether a phone number is linked to a LINE account, open the LINE app and go to “Home,” “Settings” and “My Account,” then check the “Phone number” field.
Store water now! 9 cities and counties face major water outages tomorrow, with some areas without water morning and evening for up to 24 hours; check your home’s outage area with one click.
Starting Oct. 19, water outages will affect some areas of Taipei City, New Taipei City, Yilan County, Taichung City, Yunlin County, Tainan City, Pingtung County, Hualien County and Penghu County.
Water will be shut off for 24 hours on Lane 133, Zhongxing Street, Yonghe District, New Taipei City.
Reasons for the water outages include pipeline replacement, network improvements, leak detection and equipment maintenance.
Taipei residents should finish storing water 6 hours in advance.
Turn off the power to water pumps during the outage to prevent damage or fire.
Third reading passes bill exempting people aged 65 and older from health insurance premiums! Lawyer says Blue and White lawmakers caused havoc with their amendment, slashing “three subsidies” for seniors.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Legislative Yuan passed amendments to the Senior Citizens Welfare Act in a third reading on Oct. 16, under which the central government will fully subsidize health insurance premiums for people aged 65 and older who meet the income requirements. An estimated 4.03 million people will benefit. The Ministry of Health and Welfare warned that paying for the subsidies with premiums would increase the burden on younger and middle-aged people, while a lawyer voiced concern that deleting wording on existing subsidies would eliminate the legal basis for medical assistance for disadvantaged seniors.
Facts
The Legislative Yuan passed amendments to Article 22 of the Senior Citizens Welfare Act in a third reading on Oct. 16, stipulating that the central government will fully subsidize National Health Insurance premiums for people aged 65 and older who meet the income requirements.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare estimates that about 4.03 million people aged 65 and older qualify for the subsidy, which would require about NT$40 billion in funding.
If the subsidy is funded by health insurance premiums, the main working-age population of 20 to 64 could face an average additional burden of about NT$2,690 per person per year.
Lawyer Lai Chung-chiang questioned the removal of wording on copayments and medical care not covered by health insurance from the amended provisions, warning that 3 medical subsidies for disadvantaged groups could lose their legal basis.
The income criteria for eligibility are that the person’s consolidated income in the most recent year was below the filing threshold, or that their consolidated income tax rate was below 20% (net income of NT$1.33 million).
Oct. 18 (Sun) vs. 横浜GRITS: Game result. After a game that went all the way to a PSS, #88 Yuri Terao scored in the GWS for a 2-1 win!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
H.C.栃木日光アイスバックス faced 横浜GRITS on Oct. 18 in the 2026-2027 Asia League Ice Hockey regular season, winning 2-1 after prevailing in the overtime shootout (GWS).
The 2026 Tokyo tournament of the “Roland-Garros Junior Series by ルノー” concludes; men’s and women’s champions decided
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The 2026 Tokyo tournament of the “Roland-Garros Junior Series by ルノー” concluded, with Kim Dong-jae winning the boys’ title and Yui Komada winning the girls’ title. Both players earned spots in the main draw of the 2027 Roland-Garros Juniors in Paris.
[TAC Public-Service Exam Prep] Former deputy ward mayor and recruitment officer speak! Free online guidance on transitioning to a public-service career from the private sector on 10/26 (Mon)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
TAC株式会社 will hold a free online guidance session on Oct. 26, 2026, for people aiming to transition from the private sector to a public-service career. Instructor Tetsuya Harano, a former deputy ward mayor with recruitment experience, will explain exam preparation and the benefits of changing careers.
Korean traditional snack “BOOCHANGJEGWA” arrives in Shibuya! Popular walnut pastries on sale for a limited time
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社MXN JAPAN will open a limited-time pop-up for the Korean traditional snack “BOOCHANGJEGWA” at Shibuya Scramble Square starting Oct. 15, 2026. The event is part of “DISTRICT SEOUL SHIBUYA EDITION,” hosted by 新世界百貨店.
The Hokkaido Products and Tourism Fair will be held at the event space on the 6th floor of そごう千葉店 starting Oct. 22, featuring seafood bento boxes, sweets, craft beer and other foods.
Facts
First half: 46 stores
Second half: 4
1,350 yen
792 yen
461 yen
371 yen
1,080 yen
1,215 yen
1,296 yen
1,101 yen
1,301 yen
2,808 yen
851 yen
800 yen each
1,458 yen
980 yen
2,160 yen
681 yen
1,580 yen
3,510 yen
2,646 yen
Companies mentioned：株式会社そごう・西武、そごう千葉店、小樽洋菓子舗ルタオ、MORIHICO、MILK DO dore iku?、北海道バターのいとこ、ロイズ、明治、函館洋菓子舗スナッフルズ、札幌千秋庵、札幌味噌ラーメン専門店けやき、札幌豊平館厨房、The day、月と太陽BREWING、The CheeseBurger ESSEN、ZZZ365、菊地ファーム、しらおい菓子工房まいこ、ノースグランド、中華そばカリフォルニア、北海工房、やきにくれすとらん沙蘭
Report: VR experience event “メタとら LEVEL.2” draws 190 visitors in Umeda, Osaka
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The VR experience event “メタとら LEVEL.2” was held on Oct. 3, 2026, at Grand Green Osaka in Umeda, Osaka, drawing 190 visitors. A total of 22 companies and organizations, including VRChat Inc. and Shiftall, exhibited, with VR equipment available to try and food and drinks on offer.
Facts
190 visitors
22 companies, organizations and stores exhibited
Venue of approximately 660 m²
24 respondents
66.7% rated it “very good”
33.3% rated it “good”
Admission: ¥1,500
Companies mentioned：ユーステラグループホールディングス合同会社、さくらインターネット、VRChat Inc.、Shiftall、バンタンゲームアカデミー、NuNuPC、Pimax、マウスコンピューター、ROOX、BOBOVR、メガネSHOPアイ、MyDearest株式会社、Cheero、ティキBAR、歴史を刻め 日本橋、レストランカフェ Peri Cafe、IntoFree、WeaverseLab株式会社、兵庫県立大学、江津市、メタバースヨコスカ、大阪電気通信大学、Pico Technology Japan株式会社、大阪デザイン振興プラザ、大阪商工会議所
A dream collaboration between global sensation YOASOBI and Hokkaido’s popular confectionery “Hokkaido Anpotato”! Limited-edition “Tekuteku YOASOBI × Hokkaido Anpotato” to be released!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社わかさいも本舗 will release “Tekuteku YOASOBI × Hokkaido Anpotato,” a limited-edition product created in collaboration with YOASOBI. Pre-orders begin on Oct. 18, 2026, and the price is 2,200 yen (tax included).
[Amazon Prime Big Deal Days through Oct. 19] Special prices for 1 more day on 4 RebotAi tablet models! Great deals on models including Android 16, 2.5K high resolution and a 13.4-inch large display
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
RebotAi is offering special prices on 4 tablet models (D101PRO, B11AIR, AF12 and AF13AIR) featuring Android 16 for Amazon Prime Big Deal Days, which runs through Oct. 19, 2026.
Facts
Oct. 19, 2026
4 models
53% off
37% off
46% off
36% off
11,399 yen
¥13,299
26,599 yen
22,999 yen
Android 16
2.5K high resolution
13.4 inches
Companies mentioned：Shenzhen Yipuda Digital Technology Co., Ltd.、RebotAi、Amazon、Google、UNISOC、Netflix
[Seto, Aichi] A winter feast in a gassho-style house relocated from Shirakawa-go! New winter glamping plan lets guests choose between “Seto Pork Hot Pot” and “Game Meat Hot Pot” at ウッドデザインパーク瀬戸
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ウッドデザインパーク瀬戸, a glamping facility in Seto, Aichi Prefecture, has announced a winter-only hot pot plan served in a traditional gassho-style house relocated from Shirakawa-go. Guests can choose between “Seto Pork Hot Pot,” made with local branded pork, and “Game Meat Hot Pot,” made with venison; both come with 6 types of prepared seasonal side dishes.
ユーステラグループホールディングス合同会社 has entered into a creative-sector partnership with Mashiroono, which offers makeup textures for VRChat, and released the collaborative product “傾国 Eye ＆ Make up Texture,” compatible with Lumia, on Oct. 18, 2026.
[TAC Construction Industry Accounting Certification Course] “Early-Bird Campaign” underway for the March 27 target! Save up to ¥15,000!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
TAC株式会社 is running an early-bird campaign for its Construction Industry Accounting Certification Course. Online access is available through the end of March 2027, with discounts of up to 15,000 yen.
Facts
9/14 (Mon)–11/30 (Mon)
Web course streaming ends at the end of March 2027
Special viewing of Sensoji Temple’s scenic Denboin Garden and Ema Hall, held from Oct. 30 to Nov. 3: Original display of the treasured “Sensoji Kanbun Engi Emaki” confirmed. A 5-day-only opportunity to see the normally closed scenic garden and approximately 50 large votive paintings.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
As a related event to “ASAKUSA CULTURE & LIGHTS 2026,” produced by 株式会社一旗, special viewings of Denboin Garden and Ema Hall will be held at Sensoji Temple. The program includes an original display of the treasured “Sensoji Kanbun Engi Emaki,” reproductions of national-treasure sutras and a viewing of approximately 50 large votive paintings.
Facts
5 days only
Approximately 50 large votive paintings
The complete 6-volume picture scroll
Among all 10 volumes
Attracted more than 150,000 visitors
Sensoji Temple’s 1,400-year history
[Price] 12,000 yen (tax included; adults (high school students and older); presale only)
[Capacity] 30 people
[Price] 5,000 yen (tax included; adults (high school students and older); presale only)
Full program announced for “Memento Mori in NYC”; additional sponsorships confirmed from 日本香堂, 獺祭 Blue and others
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
YOMI International株式会社 announced the full program for the cultural event “Memento Mori in NYC,” to be held in New York on November 5 and 6, 2026, and said additional sponsorships had been confirmed from 米国日本香堂, 獺祭 Blue, 株式会社大栄 and others.
Facts
300 incense samples
$50
Capacity: 12 people
Additional fee: $60
Memorial portrait photography (no makeup): $50
Memorial portrait photography (hair and makeup): $180
How far do regulations apply to grid-scale battery storage? Webinar to unpack technical standards and JIS/JET certification
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ジャパンブランディング株式会社 will hold a webinar on regulations and certification for grid-scale battery storage in mid-November 2026. It will explain the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry’s technical standards and JIS/JET certification, and said it will continue sharing information as the exclusive Japanese distributor of GUS Technology battery storage systems.
550,000 take part in mass protest in France; 1,200 arrested; Macron speaks out
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
A protest involving 550,000 people erupted in France on the 17th, amid the most serious violent unrest in recent years; about 1,200 people were arrested. President Macron strongly condemned the violence and pledged to punish those responsible. Incidents included attacks on police cars, vandalized shops and arson at town halls.
Facts
France held 110 protests on the 17th, with 550,000 demonstrators taking part.
About 1,200 people were arrested in the unrest.
A town hall in Limoges with a 140-year history was set on fire and sustained severe structural damage.
The Lyon tourism office was damaged in an arson attack.