Provided US$585 million in foreign-currency funds to 國內外匯指定銀行 and 國銀海外分行
Some areas suspended work on the 23rd due to Typhoon Sepat
Checks returned for insufficient funds by check deposit account holders on Oct. 23 and 27
For 6 months from the date of the disaster, checks returned for insufficient funds will not be reported as accounts subject to banking restrictions solely because 3 checks have been returned
Will not be reported as accounts subject to banking restrictions solely because 3 checks have been returned
POLITICO: Europe does not expect a Democratic win to reverse Trump’s impact on Ukraine
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
European officials believe that even if Democrats win the U.S. midterm elections, they will be unable to reverse the impact of the Trump administration’s pro-Russia stance on Ukraine, and can only ensure continued Starlink service and speed up the delivery of air-defense missiles. Europe is shifting its focus to its own defense planning.
Facts
5 European officials involved in Ukraine-related negotiations
Major European powers face pivotal elections in 2027
In France, far-right leader Marine Le Pen is leading ahead of the presidential election scheduled for April
Industrial gas fraudulently sold as medical- and food-grade products reaches care homes and retailers; 17 people indicted
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A man surnamed Huang and others are suspected of passing off industrial oxygen as medical-grade and shipping it to medical and long-term care facilities, as well as filling cylinders bearing a gas company’s name with industrial carbon dioxide and claiming it was food-grade before shipping it to a warehouse retailer. After investigating, the Taichung District Prosecutors Office indicted 17 people and 4 companies on charges including fraud.
Hengshan Township chief in Hsinchu County suspected of corruption and vote-buying; court orders detention without visitation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Hsinchu County’s Hengshan Township chief, Chang Chih-hung, is suspected of using an official vehicle for personal purposes and offering cash bribes. Prosecutors cited serious corruption and vote-buying allegations as well as concerns about evidence tampering and flight risk in seeking detention without visitation, which the court approved.
77th anniversary of the Battle of Guningtou: 金防部 says unity between military and civilians can overcome threats
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
金防部 held a memorial ceremony on the 77th anniversary of the Battle of Guningtou, stressing that unity between the military and civilians can overcome threats and protect their homeland. It also reaffirmed Kinmen’s role as the front line and democratic bastion of the Republic of China.
蘋果’s first foldable phone, the iPhone Duo, goes on sale; market impact draws attention
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
蘋果’s first foldable phone, the iPhone Duo, has gone on sale, with strong preorders pushing back delivery times. Reviews praised its hinge design but noted drawbacks including the lack of a telephoto camera and optimized apps. IDC forecasts that 蘋果 will lead the foldable phone market from 2026 to 2027.
More good news for Asian Para Games: Lin Tzu-yu and Tian Xiaowen win women’s doubles WD20 gold
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s Lin Tzu-yu and Tian Xiaowen defeated a Chinese pair in the table tennis WD20 final at the 2026 Asian Para Games in Aichi-Nagoya to win gold, Taiwan’s 4th gold medal at this edition of the Games.
Typhoon Sepat’s impact: Taoyuan International Airport cancels 596 flights as of 9 a.m. on the 23rd
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Due to Typhoon Sepat, Taoyuan International Airport had canceled 596 flights as of 9 a.m. on the 23rd. 中華航空, 長榮航空 and 星宇航空 also announced flight adjustments.
Musk reportedly backs 天舞 with $1 billion investment to help consolidate media assets
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
CNBC cited people familiar with the matter as reporting that Musk invested about $1 billion in 天舞 as part of its equity fundraising plan. 天舞 was formed through a merger of 派拉蒙 and 華納兄弟探索 and expects to save $6 billion in costs within 3 years.
OpenAI fundraising talks near end, target valuation cut to $1.25 trillion
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
OpenAI's fundraising talks are nearing their end, with its target valuation reduced from $1.4 trillion to $1.25 trillion. It expects to raise about $30 billion.
Fitness boom: Finance Ministry says number of gyms and sales nationwide hit records last year
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Finance Ministry statistics show that the number of fitness centers nationwide reached a record 1,127 last year, while sales topped NT$20 billion for the first time, reaching NT$21.25 billion. Over the past 5 years, the total number of sports venues and their sales grew 45.7% and 42.5%, respectively, with fitness centers accounting for most of the increase.
Facts
Rose 45.7%
42.5%
1,127 last year
Surpassed NT$20 billion
Reached NT$21.25 billion
Rose to 3,069 last year
Rose to NT$42.60 billion
Up 54.8% from 109
Further increased to 1,166
Accounted for 36% of all sports venues
Fell to a low of NT$12.36 billion
Up 39.7% from 5 years earlier
Continued to rise to NT$11.36 billion
Increased by 12.6%
There were 840 last year
Accounted for 74.5% nationwide
Taipei had the most, with 181
Accounted for 16.1%
Taichung had 173
Accounted for 15.4%
Fitness center sales in the 6 special municipalities accounted for 82% nationwide
Su Chiao-hui on health insurance subsidies for seniors: Would accept them if they were a nationwide benefit
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Su Chiao-hui, the Democratic Progressive Party's candidate for New Taipei City mayor, said in an interview that if health insurance subsidies for seniors were established as a uniform nationwide benefit, she would accept them and seek central government planning and funding.
Typhoon Kajiki approaches; 1,397 people to be evacuated from New Taipei landslide-prone areas
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
As Typhoon Kajiki approaches, New Taipei City Mayor Hou You-yi inspected flood-control projects and called for pumps to be pre-positioned. A planned evacuation of 1,397 people from landslide-prone areas is under way. The weather team forecasts the strongest winds and rain on the evening of the 24th, with heavy to torrential rain in low-lying areas and torrential to extremely torrential rain in mountainous areas. Most reported damage involved fallen trees, and some roads have been closed.
Facts
1,397 people to be evacuated
Strong gusts of 8 to 10 on the wind scale expected
China and Russia issue communique on one-China principle; Foreign Ministry says it distorts facts and spreads false statements
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Foreign Ministry strongly condemned the joint communique signed by China and Russia, saying its distorted interpretation of United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 and reiteration of adherence to the "one-China principle" run counter to the facts. It called on allied countries to support peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.
AI spending spree sparks market jitters as US stocks face worst sell-off in months
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Amid concerns over tech giants' AI capital spending and escalating tensions in the Middle East, US stocks suffered their worst sell-off in months on the 22nd, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq indexes falling sharply. A flight to safety into US Treasuries led to the biggest single-day drop in yields in more than a year.
Facts
Original標普500（S&P 500）指數下跌1.2%
The Nasdaq fell 2.6%
Meta shares plunged 7% today
Shares also fell more than 9%
The yield on 10-year U.S. Treasuries fell below 5%
The 30-year Treasury yield fell to 5.3%
About $124 billion in market value was wiped out
The Philadelphia Semiconductor Index plunged nearly 7%
The Rope Curse 4 hits Indonesian theaters, bringing Taiwan’s exorcism culture across the sea
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwanese horror film The Rope Curse 4: Kuntilanak has opened in Indonesian theaters, combining Taiwanese Taoist beliefs with Indonesian folk tales of ghosts and monsters. Producer Tsou Chieh-chung said the team decided to travel to Indonesia to research and film after discovering that the series had impressive viewing figures there on Netflix, with the aim of promoting cultural exchange between the two places.
Typhoon Champi approaches; Tainan City opens Level 1 disaster response center
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
As Typhoon Champi approaches, Tainan City has opened its Level 1 disaster response center. Mayor Huang Wei-che stressed preparations for the typhoon, saying the city is expected to be affected from the 23rd through early morning on the 24th, with strong gusts of 9 to 12 on the Beaufort scale possible in the afternoon.
Facts
Level 1 activation
7:30 a.m.
Next 12 hours
Strong gusts of 9 to 12 on the Beaufort scale
From the 23rd to dawn on the 24th
Estimated cumulative rainfall of 50 to 100 millimeters
The main period of rainfall is from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on the 23rd
Xi Jinping makes high-profile appearance at 90th anniversary commemoration of the Long March; Hu Chunhua absent
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Chinese Communist Party held a ceremony in Beijing to mark the 90th anniversary of the Long March victory, with Xi Jinping delivering a speech. Hu Chunhua, vice chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, was not seen on the rostrum, prompting attention and speculation about his political standing.
Hospital emergency and outpatient service information (Yunlin County)
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 國家災害防救科技中心
On October 23, 2026, Yunlin Chang Gung Memorial Hospital will suspend afternoon clinics, with only a special internal medicine clinic available. It will have no evening clinic, and emergency services will operate as usual.
Hospital emergency and outpatient service information (Yunlin County)
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 國家災害防救科技中心
On October 23, 2026, Fu An Hospital in Dounan Township, Yunlin County, will suspend evening clinics and have no emergency services. Morning and afternoon clinics will operate as usual.
Due to Typhoon Champi, emergency repairs were carried out on the westbound main track between Keelung and Nangang after bamboo came close to the overhead wires, resulting in a power outage and train delays.
Provincial Highway 7甲 0K+0~45K+407 road closure (Yilan County, Taoyuan City, New Taipei City)
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 國家災害防救科技中心
The 0K+0 to 45K+407 section of Provincial Highway 7甲 is subject to traffic controls due to a precautionary closure, affecting Yilan County, Taoyuan City and New Taipei City.
Provincial Highway 7甲 0K+0~45K+407 road closure (Yilan County, Taoyuan City, New Taipei City)
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 國家災害防救科技中心
Due to a high risk of disasters caused by persistent heavy rain in mountainous areas, 交通部公路局 has implemented a precautionary road closure on the 0K+0 to 45K+407 section of Provincial Highway 7甲 in Yilan County, Taoyuan City and New Taipei City to protect road users.
Typhoon warnings for sea and land (Yilan County, Hualien County, Nantou County, Pingtung County, Miaoli County, Taoyuan City, Kaohsiung City, Keelung City, Lienchiang County, Yunlin County, New Taipei City, Hsinchu City, Hsinchu County, Chiayi City, Chiayi County, Changhua County, Taichung City, Taipei City, Taitung County, Tainan City, Penghu County)
Provincial Highway 7 85K+500~94K+0 road closure (Yilan County, Taoyuan City, New Taipei City)
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 國家災害防救科技中心
To prevent disasters such as slope collapses and rockfalls caused by persistent heavy rain, 交通部公路局 has implemented a precautionary road closure on the 85K+500 to 94K+0 section of Highway 7 in Datong Township, Yilan County.
台灣自來水公司 issued a water outage alert for Zhongliao Township, Nantou County, due to emergency repairs to a burst pipe on Xianglin Lane, affecting Zhongliao and Yongping villages.
Provincial Highway 7甲 0K+0~50K+0 road closure (Yilan County, Taoyuan City, New Taipei City)
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 國家災害防救科技中心
Due to the risk of disasters such as slope collapses and rockfalls caused by persistent heavy rain, 交通部公路局 announced that the 0K+0 to 50K+0 section of Provincial Highway 7甲 would be closed from 10:00 on October 23, 2026, until 15:00 on October 24.
Land strong wind advisory (yellow light) (Yilan County, Hualien County, Nantou County, Pingtung County, Miaoli County, Taoyuan City, Kaohsiung City, Keelung City, Lienchiang County, Yunlin County, New Taipei City, Hsinchu City, Hsinchu County, Chiayi City, Chiayi County, Changhua County, Taichung City, Taipei City, Taitung County, Tainan City)
Land strong wind advisory (orange light) (Yilan County, Hualien County, Pingtung County, Miaoli County, Taoyuan City, Kaohsiung City, Keelung City, Lienchiang County, Yunlin County, New Taipei City, Hsinchu City, Hsinchu County, Chiayi County, Changhua County, Taichung City, Taitung County, Tainan City, Penghu County)
台灣自來水公司 issued a water outage alert for Nanping Village in Donggang Township, Pingtung County, and Qifeng Village in Linbian Township due to emergency repairs to a burst 200mm pipeline. The outage will run from 10:25 to 17:00 on October 23, 2026.
Emergency repairs to a water leak on Xishu Road in Tainan’s South District will result in a water outage and reduced water pressure in parts of Xinan Village, South District, Tainan, from 10:00 to 13:30 on 10/23.
台灣自來水公司 will suspend water service in some villages in Sanmin District and Niaosong District, Kaohsiung City, on October 23, 2026, to accommodate metro construction.
Provincial Highway 9 154K+700~165K+400 road closure (Yilan County, Hualien County)
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 國家災害防救科技中心
In response to Typhoon 薔琵, 交通部公路局 has imposed a precautionary closure on the 154K+700 to 165K+400 section of Provincial Highway 9 in Yilan County and Hualien County.
Provincial Highway 9 154K+700~165K+400 road closure (Yilan County, Hualien County)
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 國家災害防救科技中心
In response to Typhoon 薔琵, 交通部公路局 has implemented a precautionary road closure on the 154K+700 to 165K+400 section of Provincial Highway 9 in Yilan County and Hualien County.
Wanli Creek Landslide-Dammed Lake Warning (Hualien County)
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 國家災害防救科技中心
The landslide-dammed lake on Wanli Creek is currently overflowing steadily, but risks remain. The Hualien County government urged the public not to enter the restricted area, warning that violators will be fined under the Disaster Prevention and Protection Act.
台灣自來水公司 is carrying out emergency repairs after a suspected leak in a 250mm PVC pipe on Coastal Road in Linyuan District, leaving several neighborhoods in Kaohsiung City without water.
High Temperature Information (Hualien County, Taitung County)
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 國家災害防救科技中心
中央氣象署 issued a yellow high-temperature alert for Hualien County and Taitung County. Due to subsidence associated with the typhoon circulation, foehn winds are possible in southeastern Taiwan from the 23rd to the 24th. The public is advised to limit outdoor activities, use sun protection and stay hydrated.
台灣自來水公司 issued a water outage alert for Yuchang Village in Nanzi District, Kaohsiung City, due to emergency repairs at No. 168 Minchang Street. The outage is scheduled from 08:20 to 17:00 on October 23, 2026.
Due to repairs following a failure of 台電's electromechanical equipment, 台灣自來水公司 issued a water outage alert for several neighborhoods in Puli Township, Nantou County, including Dacheng Village and Ximen Village. The outage takes effect at 2026-10-23T08:21:44 and ends at 2026-10-23T14:00:00.
Buying property in Japan？ Registration form lists “Taiwan”！ Taiwanese buyers need not list China as their nationality： Official standards from the Ministry of Justice at a glance
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Japan’s Ministry of Justice announced that nationality declarations will be added to property registration starting in October 2026, and buyers from Taiwan may enter “Taiwan.” The move clarifies official standards, addresses discrepancies in how information appears on identity documents, and strengthens the framework for managing foreign-owned property and determining the law applicable to inheritance.
Facts
Starting October 5, 2026, Japan’s property registration process will require a new “Nationality, etc.” declaration, and buyers from Taiwan may enter “Taiwan.”
The Ministry of Justice’s website explicitly lists “Taiwan” as an option for the nationality declaration.
If a supporting document lists “China” but the declaration says “Taiwan,” the registration system will still record “Taiwan.”
Buyers living overseas may use a copy of a valid passport, accompanied by a Japanese translation, as proof of nationality when registering property.
Nationality information will serve as the basis for determining the law applicable to inheritance in the future.
Homeowners who have already completed registration do not need to submit a nationality declaration when the new system takes effect.
Property held in a company’s name is not covered by this nationality declaration requirement, which applies to individuals.
U.S. and Iran to resume fighting after midterm elections？ U.S. and Israel plan 3-day lightning campaign： Here are the targets
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The United States and Israel have drawn up plans for a 3-day military campaign against Iran, targeting nuclear facilities and the energy industry, but the White House confirmed the operation would begin after the November 3 midterm elections. Trump stressed the need to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, while Netanyahu called for the overthrow of Iran’s government. Iran warned it would extend its retaliation to U.S. digital infrastructure.
Facts
U.S. and Israeli military planners have drawn up a possible military campaign that could last 3 days.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has instructed the military, Mossad and other security agencies to overthrow Iran’s government.
U.S. Secretary of War Hegseth said the U.S. military had inflicted historic damage on Iran’s military capabilities but remained prepared to expand the campaign further.
Could Shen Boyang’s sale of foreign-current-themed merchandise count as misappropriation of public funds？ Is a NT$2 million loan enough for a campaign？ Chen Pei-chi urges scrutiny of financial flows： Prosecute him as in the Ko Wen-je case
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Chen Pei-chi, wife of Taiwan People’s Party member Ko Wen-je, questioned the sources of Democratic Progressive Party legislator Shen Boyang’s campaign funds and urged prosecutors to impose a sentence comparable to that in Ko Wen-je’s case. She also mentioned the guilty pleas by Li Wenzong and his sister, criticizing what she called the DPP’s use of the judicial system to purge its opponents.
Facts
In a Facebook post, Chen Pei-chi questioned how Shen Boyang, whose assets total about NT$3.15 million and who took out a NT$2 million personal loan, could afford extensive campaign advertising.
Chen Pei-chi urged prosecutors to handle Shen Boyang as they did Ko Wen-je, including the same detention measures and sentencing.
Li Wenzong and Li Wenjuan separately pleaded guilty to breach of trust and offenses involving violations of the Business Entity Accounting Act, among other charges.
Ko Wen-je stressed that the guilty pleas by Li Wenzong and his sister amounted to “admitting defeat,” not “admitting guilt.”
Chen Pei-chi said Ko Wen-je spent more than NT$100 million on his 2014 Taipei mayoral campaign.
Chen Pei-chi said Ko Wen-je was indicted for misappropriation of public funds and spent 1 year in detention.
Today’s top stories (10/23)！ 21 counties and cities meet the threshold for a typhoon day tomorrow／Labor Insurance Bureau deposits “NT$4,000 in benefits” today／Will parents’ National Health Insurance premiums be canceled if they move in with their children？
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
風傳媒 reported today that Typhoon Qiangpi could bring 21 counties and cities, including Taipei, New Taipei, Keelung and Taoyuan, to the threshold for suspending work and classes, with local governments to announce closures by 8 p.m. tonight. The Labor Insurance Bureau is depositing benefits of about NT$4,049 today, with pension payments due at the end of the month. Other topics include how older adults moving in with family affects health insurance subsidies, the history of Neihu’s transformation from a garbage mountain into a park, controversy over the National Development Fund’s investment in Su Tseng-chang’s daughter’s company, and the impact of a sharp drop in the Philadelphia Semiconductor Index on Taiwan stocks.
Facts
Typhoon Qiangpi’s storm circle has reached land, and rainfall or wind forecasts for 21 counties and cities, including Taipei, New Taipei, Keelung, Taoyuan, Hsinchu, Miaoli and Yilan, have met the threshold for suspending work and classes.
The Labor Insurance Bureau is depositing National Pension old-age basic-guarantee pensions and benefits for Indigenous people today. Eligible recipients can receive about NT$4,049 per month.
Parents who move in with their children after turning 65 may not continue to receive the county or city subsidy of up to NT$826 per month for their health insurance premiums.
A garbage mountain about 20 stories high stood in Taipei’s Neihu District for 15 years. It has now been turned into a park.
The National Development Fund invested NT$19.99 million in 曠世智能, a company owned by Su Chiao-chun, daughter of former Premier Su Tseng-chang. It is the first such investment in the fund’s 53-year history.
Zhang Linghe and Xiao Zhan lose out！ TOP10 most handsome battle-worn men in historical dramas： The winner delivers top-tier acting and thrilling fight scenes, with an emotional impact that hits hard
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
《BEAUTY美人圈》 reported on a poll of the TOP10 most handsome battle-worn men in historical dramas, with Ren Jialun in first place, Xiao Zhan in second and Zhang Linghe in seventh. The ranking includes actors such as Liu Xueyi and Bai Jingting, reflecting the recent popularity of “battle-worn beauties” in Chinese dramas and growing emphasis on acting and contrasts between actors and their roles.
Facts
According to 《BEAUTY美人圈》, Ren Jialun ranked first in an online poll of the TOP10 most iconic battle-worn men in historical costume dramas.
Xiao Zhan placed second on the list.
Liu Xueyi ranked tenth on the list.
Tan Jianci’s portrayal of Xiang Liu in 《長相思》 is considered one of the classic battle-worn roles.
Deng Wei plays Su Yishui in 《仙台有樹》, showcasing a different kind of battle-worn appeal.
Li Yunrui plays young general Song Mo in 《九重紫》, leaving a highly distinctive battle-worn image.
Liu Yuning portrays both domineering and tragic battle-worn characters in 《折腰》 and 《一念關山》.
Cao Jun plays Chu Linyang in 《山河枕》, conveying the bearing of a military commander who refuses to abandon his responsibilities even when injured.
Typhoon Qiangpi latest update》 Storm circle reaches land and “gradually envelops Taiwan”！ Check the latest typhoon track with one click and watch the 24-hour livestream
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Typhoon Qiangpi’s storm circle reached land at 4 a.m. on the 23rd. The Central Weather Administration warned that the strongest winds and rain are expected from the evening of the 23rd through the morning of the 24th. The Yilan mountains face a risk of extremely heavy rain, while coastal areas are under a high-wave warning. The public can follow the storm through the agency’s website, GIS map and YouTube livestream.
Facts
Typhoon Qiangpi’s storm circle officially made landfall in Taiwan at 4 a.m. today (the 23rd).
The Central Weather Administration estimates that the most intense winds and rain will occur from this evening (the 23rd) through tomorrow morning (the 24th).
The Yilan mountains should be especially vigilant for localized, potentially disastrous “extremely heavy rain.”
Coastal areas across Taiwan should brace for strong gusts and long-period waves of 6 meters or higher.
Typhoon Qiangpi is moving toward waters off northern and northeastern Taiwan.
Because of Taiwan’s terrain, the typhoon’s center may slow down or move erratically as it passes through waters off the northeastern tip.
After repeated criticism from Trump, Britain is finally set to drill for oil and gas in the North Sea； Gas supplies to surge by 6%
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The UK ambassador to the United States, Turner, confirmed that the Jackdaw gas field in the North Sea could begin supplying gas as early as this winter. Its output accounts for 6% of national production, and it is expected to generate $3.8 billion in revenue over 11 years of operation. Turner stressed that this was an independent decision based on national interests, aimed at strengthening energy security and diversification, and unrelated to the US political position.
Facts
The Jackdaw gas field could begin supplying natural gas as early as this winter.
The Jackdaw gas field is expected to have an operating life of about 11 years.
When the Jackdaw gas field reaches peak capacity, its output is expected to account for around 6% of the UK's total natural gas production.
Over its lifetime, the Jackdaw gas field is estimated to produce natural gas equivalent to 40 million barrels of oil.
The Jackdaw gas field project is expected to generate about $3.8 billion in economic benefits.
Wang Churan and Cheng Lei's 《成何體統》 loses out! The champion among the TOP10 costume romance Chinese dramas of the past 3 years is this show: it outrates Yu Shuxin's 《永夜星河》 and hooks viewers after just one episode
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Based on Douban ratings as of October 22, 2026, this article reviews the TOP10 highest-rated costume romance Chinese dramas of the past 3 years. 《九重紫》 takes the top spot with a rating of 7.8, followed by 《柳舟記》, with highlights of each drama's plot and cast performances also covered.
Facts
The champion among costume romance Chinese dramas of the past 3 years is 《九重紫》, with a Douban rating of 7.8.
《柳舟記》 follows closely behind with a rating of 7.7.
《入青雲》 stars Hou Minghao and Lu Yuxiao and has a Douban rating of 7.0.
《仙台有樹》 stars Deng Wei and Xiang Hanzhi and has a Douban rating of 7.1.
《成何體統》 stars Cheng Lei and Wang Churan and has a Douban rating of 7.3.
The data reflects historical Douban ratings publicly available as of October 22, 2026.
《花開錦繡》 stars Ding Yuxi and Deng Enxi and has a Douban rating of 7.2.
Driving on the highway in heavy rain: Should you turn on your hazard lights? The Ministry of Transportation gives its answer: “Violators are fined NT$3,600 on the spot,” but most drivers still don't know
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Chiayi Motor Vehicles Office of the Highway Bureau under the Ministry of Transportation clarified that fog lights, not hazard lights, should be used in rainy or foggy conditions. Improper use of fog lights could result in a fine of NT$3,600, and drivers are urged to develop proper lighting habits.
Facts
The Chiayi Motor Vehicles Office of the Highway Bureau under the Ministry of Transportation said that when driving through areas with poor visibility, such as in rain or fog, the correct approach is to turn on the front and rear fog lights, not the hazard lights.
Improper use of fog lights in good weather can result in a fine of up to NT$3,600 under the law.
Under Article 42 of the Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act, illegally using fog lights is punishable by a fine of NT$1,200 to NT$3,600.
All cars newly manufactured since July 2010 have been required to come equipped with rear fog lights.
Hazard lights are mainly used for brief warnings when a vehicle breaks down, is temporarily stopped by the roadside, or needs to signal a sudden slowdown due to traffic conditions ahead.
Musk invests $1 billion in Skydance Media! His move into the film and TV industry and partnership with Paramount are reportedly linked to Starlink
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Musk invested $1 billion in Skydance Media, strengthening ties with the Ellison family and potentially paving the way for cooperation between Starlink and streaming services.
Facts
Musk has invested about $1 billion in film production company Skydance Media.
Laurene Powell Jobs, the widow of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, also added to her equity investment in Skydance Media.
Oracle founder Larry Ellison personally guaranteed more than $40 billion in equity financing for Paramount's acquisition of Warner Bros.
Musk acquired Twitter for $44 billion in 2022, with Larry Ellison investing $1 billion to help support the deal.
Skydance Media CEO David Ellison brought in former Mattel executive Ynon Kreiz as co-CEO.
International midday briefing, 10/23 | USFK calls itself a global force; Kadena bans 比亞迪 vehicles from base starting on the 26th; Iran threatens to bomb oil, gas and AI facilities in 7 Gulf states
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article rounds up major international news on October 23, including a shift in the strategic role of US Forces Korea, the Starlink dispute over Ukraine, Iran's threats against Persian Gulf facilities, and a US military base ban on 比亞迪 vehicles.
Facts
In an interview, US Eighth Army commander Hilbert said it was irresponsible to believe US Forces Korea should focus solely on threats on the Korean Peninsula, stressing that the force is part of a “global force.”
Trump claimed that SpaceX CEO Elon Musk had fully restored Starlink connectivity in Ukraine, but senior European officials told the Associated Press that the military-grade Starshield service had not changed at all.
Rezaei, secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, said that if the United States and Israel launch another attack, Iran will target oil facilities, undersea cables, data centers and artificial intelligence facilities in as many as 7 Persian Gulf countries.
Kadena Air Base in Okinawa Prefecture has notified personnel that vehicles made by Chinese electric vehicle giant 比亞迪 will be completely barred from the base starting October 26.
The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs warned the Chinese Embassy in Manila on the 22nd that it could take “further diplomatic action” over the embassy's attacks on Philippine officials and lawmakers on social media.
Not dumplings or toilet paper! The top-selling item in 萬家福's TOP10 is “this”: sales topped NT$23.7 million in 3 months
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
萬家福 released its UNIDESIGN private-label best-seller list for July-September 2026, with eggs taking the top spot and sales exceeding NT$23.7 million. After 統一集團 completed its full acquisition of Carrefour, it launched the brand, which now has 80 products across a range of household goods and food categories.
Facts
The top seller on 萬家福's UNIDESIGN private-label list for July-September 2026 was “cage-free, barn-raised fresh eggs,” with sales exceeding NT$23.7 million.
UNIDESIGN purified water, 6000ml, ranked No. 2 on the best-seller list for July-September 2026, with sales exceeding NT$20 million.
萬家福 changed its name across the board starting July 1, 2026, with its supermarkets renamed 樂家康, and launched the UNIDESIGN private label at the same time.
統一集團 completed its acquisition of the remaining 60% stake in 台灣家樂福 on June 30, 2023, bringing its total ownership to 100%.
The UNIDESIGN product line grew to 80 items by October, including food, cleaning products and household goods.
The UNIDESIGN frozen dumpling range ranked No. 3 on the best-seller list for July-September 2026, with sales exceeding NT$18 million.
UNIDESIGN's New Soft toilet paper ranked No. 4 on the best-seller list for July-September 2026, with sales exceeding NT$16 million.
UNIDESIGN's New Soft 3-ply toilet paper ranked No. 5 on the best-seller list for July-September 2026, with sales exceeding NT$15 million.
Husband dies just 1 year after claiming labor insurance pension, and his wife could receive NT$1.78 million! Why does the amount disappear after 10 years of payments?
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Bureau of Labor Insurance cited a case in which a worker dies while receiving an old-age pension. If the worker has service years under the old system and the lump-sum benefit would exceed the total pension already received, survivors can apply for the difference. For example, if the worker received NT$22,717 a month and died after 1 year, the remaining difference would be about NT$1.78 million. After 10 years of payments, the difference falls to zero, but family members can still apply for a survivors' pension.
Facts
The Bureau of Labor Insurance updated its FAQ on January 28, 2026, using Mr. Jian's case to explain the difference between an old-age pension and a lump-sum old-age benefit.
If Mr. Jian chose to receive the old-age benefit as a lump sum, he would get NT$2,061,000; if he chose monthly payments, he would receive NT$22,717 per month.
Under Article 63-1 of the Labor Insurance Act, if an eligible worker dies while receiving an old-age pension, survivors may choose to claim the original old-age benefit as a lump sum, minus the total pension payments received before the worker's death.
As a general rule, the survivors' pension is calculated at 50% of the insured person's old-age pension benefit.
To qualify for the old-age benefit difference, a person must have had labor insurance coverage before the pension system took effect (before January 1, 2009) and meet the relevant legal requirements for a lump-sum old-age benefit under the old system.
Never put baking soda in your washing machine to clean it! An expert uses one cheap product to “flush out a whole tub of black water,” bringing mold and grime to the surface
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
A home-care expert warns against putting baking soda in a washing machine to clean it, because its low solubility can cause deposits and corrosion in the machine's parts. Instead, the expert recommends using sodium percarbonate with warm water to effectively remove mold while protecting the machine.
Facts
Baking soda's chemical name is sodium bicarbonate, and it has low solubility in cold water.
Undissolved baking soda particles can settle on the washing machine's base, outer drum wall and the rotary motor at the bottom.
Long-term use of baking soda may corrode metal parts in the washing machine, damage or jam the rotating shaft, or even ruin the entire machine.
When dissolved in water, sodium percarbonate breaks down into sodium carbonate and hydrogen peroxide.
The home-care expert recommends soaking and running the washing machine with warm water at 40°C to 50°C.
006208 split plan revealed: proposed 1-for-8 split, with entry price just over 30,000; will dividends change for 710,000 investors, and when should they add to their holdings?
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
富邦投信 announced a proposed 1-for-8 split of 006208, with a vote scheduled for Dec. 18. The move aims to lower the investment threshold for a board lot to about 33,200 yuan, boost market liquidity, and ensure the net asset value remains above 30 yuan per unit after the split.
Facts
富邦投信 announced on Oct. 22 that 006208 is proposing a 1-for-8 split, with a beneficiaries' meeting scheduled for Dec. 18 to vote on the proposal.
As of Oct. 6, 2026, 006208 had a net asset value of 266.74 yuan per unit and fund assets of about 496.3 billion yuan.
Original006208受益人數截至2026年10月8日達71萬2143人。
If the split is 1-for-8, the number of beneficiary units held by investors will increase to 8 times the original amount, while the net asset value per unit will fall to one-eighth of its original level.
006208's initial offering price at launch was 30 yuan per unit, and the net asset value per unit must remain above that price after the split.
Social media users recommended 億客來超市 in Zhubei, Hsinchu, calling it a hidden-gem supermarket. The store offers a wide variety of products, including local specialties from across Taiwan and ingredients rarely found at ordinary supermarkets. Its fresh and prepared foods are well reviewed, and prices are affordable.
Facts
億客來超市 sells well-known foods from around Taiwan, including egg dumplings from Taipei's Nanmen Market, fish dumplings from Keelung's Sanji, pineapple cakes from Chia Te, and dried meat from Chui Kun.
億客來超市 has about 6 physical stores in Taiwan, mainly in Taoyuan, Hsinchu and Kaohsiung.
億客來超市 has served local markets for more than 20 years.
Users said vegetables at 億客來超市 are affordably priced, citing a usual deal of 3 bags of vegetables for 100 yuan and basil for 10 yuan.
The prepared-food section at 億客來超市 offers items such as braised foods and pork cheek, and was recommended as a convenient dinner option after work.
F-35 production set for major expansion! 洛克希德馬丁 pursues big orders for the next 10 years as key Pentagon approval comes to light
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
洛克希德馬丁 announced on Oct. 22 a new production and sustainment framework for the F-35, planning to build 850 fighter jets over 10 years at an annual rate of 156. With congressional authorization, the plan could save billions of dollars and support 317,000 jobs in the United States.
Facts
洛克希德馬丁 announced on Oct. 22 a new production and sustainment framework for the F-35 Lightning II.
Over the next 10 years, 850 F-35 fighter jets will be produced for the U.S. military, with annual production maintained at 156.
The new framework still awaits congressional authorization for a multiyear deal and related budget appropriations.
Long-term pricing and volume-purchasing discounts across the industry are expected to save billions of dollars.
The plan will support 317,000 jobs in the United States and generate about 79 billion dollars in economic activity each year over the next 10 years.
More than 1,375 F-35s are now in service worldwide, with over 1 million cumulative flight hours and deployments at 42 bases around the world.
The F-35 Lightning II is a fifth-generation multirole stealth fighter operated by three branches of the U.S. military: the Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps.
洛克希德馬丁 will sign long-term contracts with suppliers to buy raw materials and key components in volume, shortening delivery times and easing bottlenecks.
Exclusive: 中科院 develops an air-launched Hsiung Feng III missile to counter Chinese aircraft carriers, but filter module is reportedly made in China
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
A report alleged that the filter module for 中科院's Hsiung Chih project to develop an air-launched Hsiung Feng III missile may be made in China. 中科院 confirmed it found an issue during enhanced inspections and notified the supplier, stressing that the part has no data-transmission function and remains in the testing phase.
Facts
Original國防部以「雄鷙專案」為代號，委由中科院研製雄三空射型反艦飛彈。
The air-launched Hsiung Feng III missile program was scheduled to complete carriage and flight tests in 2025, and completed its first live-fire test on July 1, 2026.
The air-launched Hsiung Feng III missile is initially planned to have a range of 250 to 400 kilometers.
中科院 confirmed that an inspected connector was suspected to be made in China and said it had notified the supplier to explain.
The filter module involved is a cavity-type mechanical passive component, with no electronic parts or data-transmission function.
The air-launched Hsiung Feng III missile must weigh less than 900 kilograms, measure 5.5 meters in length and have a diameter of 36 centimeters.
Returning visitors who bring eligible friends or relatives can receive a combined reward of up to 8,000 yuan.
A returning visitor is defined as an international traveler who entered Taiwan at least once between Jan. 1, 2023, and the date of registration.
An accompanying friend or relative is defined as a traveler who had not entered Taiwan between Jan. 1, 2023, and the date of registration.
Original活動採每週三中午12時進行抽獎，中獎結果透過電子郵件通知。
Winners must complete identity and entry verification within 24 hours of arriving in Taiwan and upload an image of their return ticket.
The spending money will be loaded onto designated electronic payment cards, such as EasyCard, iPASS or icash. Older special-edition cards cannot be used.
A month after China's new entry law took effect, are some civil servants unable to return to Taiwan? He reveals the latest cases among “5 high-risk groups traveling to China”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
China implemented new entry and exit rules on Sept. 15, 2024, and Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council warned that 5 groups of Taiwanese face elevated risks when traveling to China. Investor A-Hsun said there had been no large-scale cases of people being barred from leaving after 1 month, but risks remain, and called on the government to release data.
Facts
China's new entry and exit rules took effect on Sept. 15, 2024, requiring people entering or leaving the country to cooperate with checks of their identity and reasons for applying. They may also be asked to provide documents, information and electronic data.
The Mainland Affairs Council warned that 5 groups face higher risks when traveling to China: civil servants, workers in the semiconductor and high-tech industries, Taiwanese businesspeople, executives at Taiwanese companies, and members of certain religious groups.
From 2024 through Sept. 11, 2026, a total of 440 people from Taiwan had gone missing in China, been detained for questioning or reportedly had their personal freedom restricted, an increase of 9 in a single week.
As of Oct. 14, 2024, there had been no verifiable large-scale incident of Taiwanese travelers having their phones searched under the new rules and then being barred from leaving China or unable to return to Taiwan.
The government is right to warn people of potential risks, but it should publish actual cases and statistics to avoid causing panic and help the public accurately assess the level of risk.
Don't just stock up on mackerel and tuna cans during typhoon season! Food lovers rave about this one: “Rich broth, big chunks of meat, perfect with instant noodles”—buy 6 cans at a time
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
With typhoon season approaching, 欣欣紅燒牛肉罐頭 has become a popular storm-preparation staple thanks to its long shelf life, rich broth and large chunks of meat. The product originated as a military emergency ration and, after the business was privatized, became widely available in physical stores and online, winning over consumers.
Facts
欣欣紅燒牛肉罐頭 is hailed as a top-tier military canned food and was originally a military emergency ration.
欣欣紅燒牛肉罐頭 is made with imported beef simmered using a proprietary recipe.
欣欣紅燒牛肉罐頭 is available at the factory in Douliu, Yunlin, and at 全聯福利中心.
欣欣紅燒牛肉罐頭 can be served with instant noodles, stewed potatoes or used as the base for borscht.
Farmer works hard to earn a 300,000-yuan prize, but could an 8,110-yuan allowance be suspended? New rules take effect in 2026, and meeting 1 condition means it won't count
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Ministry of Agriculture has amended regulations to protect farmers' rights, excluding prizes from government-organized agricultural competitions from the income calculation used to determine eligibility for the old-age farmers' allowance. Because reviews continue to use 2024 data, farmers whose income exceeds the limit can request a new review, ensuring that those who work hard in the fields do not lose eligibility for the allowance because they won a prize.
Facts
The Ministry of Agriculture amended Article 4 of the Regulations for the Application and Issuance of Welfare Allowances for Elderly Farmers on June 15, 2026.
Eligible agricultural competition prizes may be treated as agricultural income under the income-limit rules for the old-age farmers' allowance.
Under the income-limit rules for the old-age farmers' allowance, people with non-agricultural income totaling 500,000 yuan or more are generally ineligible.
The 2026 income review for the old-age farmers' allowance is based on non-agricultural income data for 2024.
Farmers who receive a request for additional documents from the Bureau of Labor Insurance must submit the relevant documents within 30 days from the day after receiving the notice.
Under the asset limit for the old-age farmers' allowance, people whose land and buildings are worth a combined 5 million yuan or more are generally ineligible.
People who applied for or were already receiving the old-age farmers' allowance by the end of December 2012 are not subject to the income and asset limits introduced in 2013.