Post-event online sales begin for “TV anime ‘Shunkashuto Daikosha: Haru no Mai’ × THEキャラCAFE”!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社コンテンツシード will begin post-event online sales of collaboration products from the TV anime “Shunkashuto Daikosha: Haru no Mai” and THEキャラCAFE on Oct. 27, 2026.
[Reprint of １万 copies decided just ３ days after release!] “Sumikko Gurashi: Memory Album,” a picture book bringing together the Sumikko characters’ everyday moments♪
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社主婦と生活社 announced that its Sumikko Gurashi picture book “Sumikko Gurashi: Memory Album” sold 1万 copies in 3 days after release, prompting a reprint.
[Breaking news! The complete edition of Shiho Nakashima’s butter-free recipe book is finally here!!] Complete edition featuring all 151 recipes from the “like a meal” sweets series, which has sold over 60万 copies in total, goes on sale Friday, 12/4!!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社主婦と生活社 will release a complete edition featuring all 151 recipes from Shiho Nakashima’s 4-book butter-free sweets series on Dec. 4, 2026.
"SILENT SERVANTS" merchandise from にじさんじ goes on sale starting at 18:00 on Wednesday, October 28, 2026!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ANYCOLOR株式会社 will begin selling merchandise themed around the 8 members of "SILENT SERVANTS," part of the VTuber group にじさんじ, at 18:00 on October 28, 2026.
Facts
On sale starting at 18:00 on Wednesday, October 28, 2026
Short anime "Mecha Samurai" to launch on YouTube and other social media in November 2026! Main character concepts by Hiroyuki Takei!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社テレビ東京ホールディングス and Plott announced that the short anime "Mecha Samurai," with main character concepts by Hiroyuki Takei, will launch on YouTube and other social media in November 2026.
The second installment of the romance reality show featuring older women and younger men, "My Older Girlfriend 2," will be available exclusively on U-NEXT from Friday, November 6
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
U-NEXT announced that it will offer the romance reality show "My Older Girlfriend 2," which aired on Korea's KBS2 in 2026, exclusively as part of its unlimited viewing service starting November 6.
Facts
Fri., Nov. 6
from 12:00
In 2026
2nd installment
Friday, Nov. 20
＜22 episodes in total＞
More than 500,000 titles
More than 1.37 million books
July 2023
As of Sept. 2026
Companies mentioned：U-NEXT、株式会社 U-NEXT、KBS2、KBS Media Ltd.、KBS、Paravi、TBS、テレビ東京、株式会社U-NEXT HOLDINGS、GEM Partners
ムーンライダーズ to close out their 50th anniversary year with a year-end concert! "moonriders LIVE 2026 The Tokyo 7" to be held at Zepp Haneda（TOKYO） on December 30, 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ムーンライダーズ, who are celebrating their 50th debut anniversary, will hold the year-end concert "moonriders LIVE 2026 The Tokyo 7" at Zepp Haneda（TOKYO） on December 30, 2026. General ticket sales begin November 14.
ABEMA's original romance reality show "We Fell in Love Today: Suwon Edition" Episode 2: "I was won over" by unwavering feelings—will a romance they thought they had moved on from start moving again?!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ABEMA aired Episode 2 of "We Fell in Love Today: Suwon Edition" on October 26, 2026. Set in Suwon, South Korea, the reality show follows high school students' romances, including Minori and Kei's hot-air balloon date and Rihito and Misaki's darts date.
ABEMA has decided to air the new show "Saraba's Legal Auction," hosted by Tetsuya Morita of Saraba Seishun no Hikari, every Wednesday starting November 11, 2026.
Facts
Nov. 11, 2026
Originalよる11時
8 episodes in total
Companies mentioned：株式会社AbemaTV、ABEMA、AbemaTV, Inc.
HANA enters a new phase. Surprise release of new song "Slidin," their first in 7 months, on Thursday, October 29!!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The 7-member girl group HANA will surprise fans with the digital release of its new song "Slidin" on October 29. It is the group's first release in about 7 months and an R&B track by producer Chanmina. An original sticker will be offered as a preorder bonus.
NHK's "Minna no Uta" October–November new song: "Frying Pan DJ!" by チョコレートプラネット and Kengo. to be released on Wednesday, October 28!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
チョコレートプラネット, affiliated with Yoshimoto Kogyo, and Kengo. will release "Frying Pan DJ!," a new song for NHK's October–November 2026 season of "Minna no Uta," on October 28, 2026.
[ベンスクリニック渋谷院] Now offering Volnewmer, the popular Korean radiofrequency lifting treatment! Expanding cosmetic medicine options available in Shibuya without traveling to Korea
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ベンスクリニック渋谷院 has introduced Volnewmer, a radiofrequency lifting device developed in Korea. The device uses 6.78 MHz RF and features a water-cooling system. The cost ranges from 32,890 to 76,890 yen (tax included).
Take management and IT concerns directly to technology experts. For company executives and IT managers only — launching the consultation service "Chokudan"
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社HeartLanguage has launched "Chokudan," a consultation service for company executives and IT managers. Technology specialists provide direct advice on challenges including staff and knowledge shortages in AI adoption and DX promotion.
Facts
85.5% of companies working on DX
69.6% said they "lack the knowledge and information needed for their company to undertake DX"
A recovery support campaign for the Reiwa 8 Kumamoto Earthquake
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
西日本高速道路株式会社 will run a recovery support campaign for the Reiwa 8 Kumamoto Earthquake from November 1 through 30, selling lucky bags, holding product fairs and offering a collaboration menu with YouTuber Ojitora. Part of the proceeds will be donated as relief funds.
Facts
An additional 10% discount will be applied
The campaign will be held at 89 service areas and parking areas outside Kumamoto Prefecture
Available at 45 other service areas and parking areas, including Tamana PA (both directions)
"Ojitora Collaboration Triple Fried-Egg Yakisoba" 1,150 yen (tax included)
The fried-egg yakisoba, made with 3 servings of noodles,
will be sold for the price of 2 servings
Get 1 stamp for every 500 yen or more spent on a meal at モテナス
Interior Ministry to provide each village and neighborhood with NT$150,000 next year for emergency disaster-response equipment
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Ministry of the Interior will provide each village and neighborhood nationwide with NT$150,000 next year to upgrade emergency equipment for disaster prevention and response. It will also strengthen local disaster-prevention networks through mechanisms including resilient communities, disaster-prevention specialists and disaster-prevention collaboration centers.
中央社 nominated in 2 categories for consumer rights reporting award, focusing on food waste challenges and delivery legislation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
中央社 has been nominated in the print and online categories of the 115-year Consumer Rights Reporting Awards for its reports “The Food Waste Challenge Beneath the Dining Table” and “Four-Way Struggle as Dedicated Delivery Legislation Takes Effect.”
Facts
115-year Consumer Rights Reporting Awards
Food-waste-fed pig farming to be completely banned in 2027
Nearly 400 metric tons of food waste are still generated every day
Egyptian parliament authorizes military aid to Saudi Arabia; Yemen rebels say it amounts to a declaration of war
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
An official from Yemen's Houthi movement said an Egyptian parliamentary resolution authorizing military support for Saudi Arabia against attacks on it amounted to a declaration of war on Yemen. Meanwhile, senior officials from Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Turkey visited Iran in an effort to ease tensions, and the 3 countries recently signed a mutual defense agreement.
Facts
(中央社 Sana'a, 27th, compiled from wire reports)
Will all be regarded as an attack on all 3 countries
Blue-white alliance in Kaohsiung race; Huang Kuo-chang urges support for Ko Chih-en to turn city around
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan People's Party Chair Huang Kuo-chang visited Kaohsiung to support Kuomintang mayoral candidate Ko Chih-en, urging residents to give her a chance to turn the city around. He also praised the performance of Kuomintang Kaohsiung City Councilor Chiu Yu-hsuan.
Huatan Township chief in Changhua sentenced to 5 years and 8 months in first-instance ruling over use of sanitation crew to haul timber from private land
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Huatan Township chief Ku Sheng-min and former sanitation crew chief surnamed Liao were accused of using public resources to handle timber from private land. In the first-instance ruling, they were sentenced to 5 years and 8 months and 5 years and 2 months, respectively, for profiteering.
Facts
Sentenced to 5 years and 8 months
5-year-and-2-month sentence
In April of the 112th year of the Republic of China
In November of the same year, completed tests of text messages and voice calls exchanged directly between ordinary mobile phones via satellite (D2C) at the same location
In September 2026, completed a ground-station resilience backup test in northern Taiwan, sending text messages via Elveo low-Earth-orbit satellites and receiving them back in Taiwan through an overseas ground station
September securities settlement deposits neared NT$4.7 trillion, hitting a record; foreign-currency deposits topped NT$10 trillion for the first time
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Central bank statistics showed securities settlement deposits rose to a record NT$4.6981 trillion in September, while foreign-currency deposits also topped NT$10 trillion for the first time. The annual growth rate of M2 rose, driven by lending and investment as well as funds temporarily parked after companies raised capital overseas; 聯發科's ECB issuance was one example.
Hsu Sheng-ming Cup youth baseball tournament opens Nov. 14; Richie Jen's alma mater to compete for the first time
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 14th Hsu Sheng-ming International Youth Baseball Tournament will be held in Meinong, Kaohsiung, from Nov. 14 to 17. Changhua County's Tianzhong Elementary School, singer Richie Jen's alma mater, will compete for the first time, with 32 teams taking part. The tournament continues its collaboration with 中華職棒台鋼雄鷹隊 to hold baseball clinics and has received sponsorship from multiple companies.
Kawaguchi Lake death case suspected to involve insurance fraud; 金管會 says multiple safeguards are in place
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The death of a Taiwanese woman surnamed Ching at Japan's Lake Kawaguchi is suspected to involve insurance fraud. 金管會 said safeguards are in place under current insurance laws and at the solicitation, underwriting and claims stages, including a requirement for written consent from the insured when a third party takes out a policy.
Higher export share weighs on gross margin; 中鋼 September pretax net profit falls 19% month on month
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
中鋼 reported pretax net profit of NT$584 million in September, down 19% month on month, mainly because a higher share of exports and lower prices weighed on gross margins. However, it turned a profit in the first 9 months of this year, and executives expect fourth-quarter orders to exceed those in the third quarter.
Facts
NT$584 million
Down 19% month on month
NT$723 million in August
Pretax loss of NT$981 million in the same period last year
Pretax net profit of NT$4.302 billion in the first 9 months of this year
Pretax loss of NT$4.68 billion in the same period last year
Taiwan dollar and stocks rise after long weekend; currency reverses losses to close at 32.452
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwanese stocks and the foreign exchange market both closed higher on the first trading day after the Restoration Day long weekend. The New Taiwan dollar closed at 32.452 to the U.S. dollar, gaining 5.6 cents, while the TAIEX closed at 46096.23, up 54.8 points. Foreign investors were net sellers of Taiwanese stocks for a second consecutive day, but the amount fell to NT$8.104 billion.
APEC in Shenzhen draws near; Japan's foreign minister says Prime Minister Takaichi coordinating attendance
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is coordinating her attendance at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit to be held in Shenzhen, China, in November. He stressed the need to build a constructive and stable relationship with China through communication.
Su Chiao-hui draws ballot No. 1 in mayoral election, says New Taipei will win
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Democratic Progressive Party New Taipei mayoral candidate Su Chiao-hui drew ballot No. 1 for the 2026 九-in-one elections, saying she felt lucky and declaring, “New Taipei will win.” She revealed that former President Tsai Ing-wen will accompany her to pay respects in Luzhou tomorrow, and a campaign motorcade has also begun touring the streets.
網家's Chang Yu-shan: Cybersecurity requires constant vigilance; hopes revenue will continue to grow in fourth quarter
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
網家 CEO Chang Yu-shan said its subsidiary 拍付國際 is cooperating with an investigation by the 數位發展部 and a third-party forensic review following a cybersecurity incident. Ahead of the Double 11 shopping festival, 網家 will strengthen cybersecurity with a vigilant approach. Operations improved in the first half of the year, and the company hopes to sustain revenue growth in the fourth quarter. Key factors include product and membership management, supply chain optimization, and its 超速配 service in cooperation with 統一集團.
Facts
NT$119 million
Loss per share of NT$1.06
Consolidated operating profit of NT$40.324 million
Chen Ting-fei draws No. 3, vows to reach every district in Tainan
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Democratic Progressive Party Tainan mayoral candidate Chen Ting-fei drew No. 3, unveiled an “姐姐市長 AI policy video” and launched a policy website, pledging to visit every district before the election.
Delhi, India, plans deposit scheme for plastic bottles to encourage recycling and refunds
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Delhi, India, plans to introduce a deposit scheme for plastic bottles. Consumers would pay an additional deposit of 1 to 2 rupees when buying drinks and receive a refund when they return the bottles. The scheme aims to establish a plastic-waste recycling system and raise environmental awareness.
中華職棒聯盟 announced the nominees for its 三 annual awards—Most Improved Player, Best Rookie and MVP—with a tight race for Most Improved Player, whose nominees are Li Tung-ming, Ma Chieh-sen and Tseng Chia-hui. All MVP nominees are foreign players.
Anthropic Files for IPO, Reviving Market Confidence; Japan and South Korea Lead Asian Markets
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Anthropic’s IPO filing has rekindled optimism about the technology industry, while technology and chip stocks have driven Japan and South Korea to lead Asian markets.
Chen Lung, president of the Taiwan Stroke Society, said nearly 20% of new stroke cases in Taiwan each year involve people under 45, many of whom delay seeking medical care because they mistake symptoms for fatigue. Health and Welfare Minister Shih Chung-liang endorsed the use of AI-assisted diagnosis, saying it could improve early detection and treatment outcomes.
Facts
Nearly 20%
Under 45
12,000 lives
17,000 patients with long-term severe disabilities
More Moisture Overnight and at Dawn; Yilan Should Prepare for Heavier Rain
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Liu Pei-teng, a forecaster with the Central Weather Administration, said moisture will increase tonight, bringing more rain to areas facing the northeast monsoon. Yilan should watch for heavier rain before dawn tomorrow. The northeast monsoon is expected to strengthen in its 3rd wave next week, and temperatures in northern Taiwan could fall below 20 degrees Celsius.
Hsieh Lung-chieh Draws No. 2 and Continues Street Canvassing, Promises ‘Double the Happiness’
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Hsieh Lung-chieh, the KMT’s Tainan mayoral candidate, drew No. 2 in the ballot-number drawing for the 2026 nine-in-one elections. He continued campaigning on the streets of Yongkang District, chanting a campaign slogan and outlining proposals including housing for couples and families and increased childcare subsidies.
旺宏: New Capacity to Come Online in Second Half of 2027; Near-Term Revenue Growth to Rely on Price Hikes
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
旺宏 Chairman Wu Min-chiu said the company’s new capacity is expected to come online in the second half of 2027, with near-term revenue growth relying mainly on product price increases. 旺宏 will focus on supporting industrial, automotive and space communications sectors and scale back its ROM business.
Facts
Second half of 2027
Original新台幣300多億元
15%
NT$24.237 billion
Up 27% quarter over quarter
Gross margin of 70.5%
Up 6.1 percentage points from the 2nd quarter
Net income after tax of NT$10.951 billion
Up 42% quarter over quarter
Earnings per share: NT$5.52
Revenue of NT$53.831 billion in the first 3 quarters
Up 155% year over year
Gross margin of 62.6%
Up 47.2 percentage points from the same period last year
Jun Märkl Leads NSO in Continued Exploration of Mahler’s Symphonic Universe
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Marking the orchestra’s 40th anniversary, NSO國家交響樂團 will present concerts of Mahler’s Ninth, led by music director Jun Märkl, as it continues to explore Mahler’s musical universe.
Rival Factions in Sudan’s Civil War Trade Drone Strikes Again, Killing 21 and Causing Widespread Power Outages
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The warring sides in Sudan’s civil war launched drone strikes against each other, killing 21 and injuring 40 in an attack on a market in Nyala, Darfur. Attacks on a substation and power plants also caused widespread outages in Khartoum and eastern Sudan.
Rock Taichung Kicks Off on 10/31, Featuring 50 Local and International Bands
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Rock Taichung 2026 will take place from Oct. 31 to Nov. 1 at Wenxin Forest Park and the Fulfillment Amphitheater, the Taichung City Government Information Bureau announced. The event will feature 50 bands from Taiwan and abroad and partner with 韓國京畿內容振興院 for the first time.
China’s Foreign Ministry: Envoy to Visit Middle East Soon to Promote Dialogue and Ease Tensions
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
China’s Foreign Ministry said an envoy will soon visit countries in the Middle East to promote contact and dialogue among the parties and ease regional tensions.
Young Representative Criticized After Drawing Election Number and Giving Interview; Chiang Wan-an: ‘Encouragement, Not Malice’
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an responded to criticism of youth representative Yakira after she drew an election ballot number and gave an interview, saying he hoped society would offer encouragement instead of malice. He added that he had called Yakira to express his appreciation and support.
Financial Policy White Paper Sets Out 5 Themes, Calls for Guidance on Agentic AI and Stablecoin Applications
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Financial Services Association released its 115 financial policy white paper, putting forward 38 recommendations across 5 main themes, including governance of agentic AI, stablecoin pilot programs, extending the securities transaction tax and cross-industry data exchange.
Lin Chih-chieh’s Career Documentary Premieres; He Jokes, ‘It’s a Bit Strange Seeing Myself in a Movie’
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A premiere was held for “THE BEAST,” a career documentary about 台北富邦勇士 player Lin Chih-chieh. Lin joked that seeing himself in the film felt a little strange, but said the experience was great. The documentary is expected to be available on 台灣大哥大MyVideo in early November. The team will also hold a retirement ceremony for his No. 12 jersey on Nov. 14.
Facts
Lin Chih-chieh, now 44,
after holding 2 farewell games
This is a microcosm of my career spanning more than 20 years.
is expected to be available on the 台灣大哥大MyVideo platform in early November
The Warriors will also hold their first home game of this PLG season on Nov. 14
and hold a retirement ceremony for his No. 12 jersey
台灣大 confident in acquisition of 精誠, aims to overtake 中華電 in share price
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
台灣大 General Manager Lin Chih-chen said that uncertainties had been eliminated after the Fair Trade Commission approved the acquisition of 精誠, and that the company was fully confident of reaching the minimum 39% threshold. He also said AI was benefiting telecom stocks, that 台灣大 had posted strong EPS, and that it was only a matter of time before its share price surpassed 中華電’s.
Facts
Valid tendered shares reach 39%
The planned acquisition is for up to about 58%
The tender offer will close on Nov. 5
Original擬溢價近3成公開收購
can be exchanged for 0.84 common shares of 台灣大哥大
and NT$92.5 in cash
精誠資訊 shares were trading at NT$142.5 at the time
精誠 shares have recently broken through the NT$200 mark
台灣大 shares closed at NT$109.5 on Aug. 12
hit a new intraday high of NT$135 today
a gain of more than 23%
gains over the past 1 year have also been around 2 or 3 tenths
Telecom operating profit rose 16% year on year in September
Consolidated operating profit rose 15% year on year
Zhubei mayoral candidates in Hsinchu County propose platforms focused on improving public spaces
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Zhubei mayoral candidates in Hsinchu County Wu Hsu-chih, Chiu Chen-yuan and Tseng Sheng-kai each proposed platforms focused on improving public spaces, including clearing sidewalk obstructions, creating pet-friendly environments, building waterfront sports facilities, and upgrading nighttime lighting and safety facilities.
Rescued green sea turtles released in Penghu’s Wangan as students witness their return to the sea
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Penghu Wangan Green Turtle Tourism and Conservation Center released 2 rescued green sea turtles at a Wangan beach today, as local teachers and students witnessed the turtles return to the sea.
Facts
Released 2 protected green sea turtles
They were injured during hatching season at a Wangan beach in September and December of ROC year 112
They were transferred in April this year to the Fisheries Research Institute’s “望安海龜收容工作站” for observation
Wang Yen-cheng touched by warm gestures from Korean pro baseball teammates; Ryu Hyun-jin says, “Just tell me what you need”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwanese pitcher Wang Yen-cheng has excelled with the 韓華鷹隊 in South Korea’s professional baseball league. Looking back on the season, he thanked teammate Ryu Hyun-jin, Kang Baek-ho and fans for their care and support.
和泰車: New car market steady, 4th quarter looks good; AI industry drives luxury car sales
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
和泰車 General Manager Su Chun-hsing said sales of luxury models were strong, driven by the AI industry, and forecast Taiwan’s auto market would remain at 430,000 vehicles this year. Revenue for the first 9 months reached a record high for the same period.
Facts
Taiwan’s auto market is expected to remain at 430,000 vehicles this year
和泰車 reported consolidated revenue of NT$26.76 billion in September
和泰車 revenue totaled NT$241.19 billion in the first 9 months
TOYOTA and LEXUS recorded about 13,400 new-car registrations combined in October
Market share of 36.2%
Taiwan's total new-car market is expected to reach 37,000 in October
Typhoon Kajiki affects the Retrocession Day holiday; average daily highway traffic falls 16%
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Freeway Bureau released results for traffic management during the Retrocession Day holiday. Affected by Typhoon Kajiki, average daily traffic fell 16% from last year, while congestion rates and accident numbers also declined significantly.
Facts
Average daily traffic was 89.7 million vehicle-kilometers
Down 16% from last year
Traffic in both directions peaked on day 2 at 101.4 mvk
The Snow Mountain Tunnel averaged 55,000 vehicle trips per day
An average of 0.11%
An average of 88 traffic accidents per day
Down 35% from the average of 135 during the same period in year 114
On average, incidents could still be cleared within 21 minutes
Huge sums of money go to waste as China’s artificial ancient towns empty out
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Artificial ancient towns built at great expense in many parts of China are struggling with low visitor numbers and shuttered shops. More than 50 billion yuan has been invested over the past 8 years. Data show that more than 2,800 ancient cities, towns and imitation-historic attractions have been built or are under development nationwide, but fewer than 300 remain viable, with most facing losses or sitting deserted. Zhangjiajie’s Dayong Ancient City, for example, cost 2.4 billion yuan to build and recorded cumulative losses of 1.08 billion yuan from 2021 to 2024.
Ebola cases in the Democratic Republic of the Congo top 10,000; health outreach workers attacked, 1 dead
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Confirmed Ebola cases in the Democratic Republic of the Congo have topped 10,000, with a fatality rate of about 48.6%. Two health outreach workers were attacked after residents accused them of spreading the virus, leaving 1 dead and 1 injured.
Facts
Confirmed cases have topped 10,000
Cumulative confirmed cases have reached 10,060
A fatality rate of about 48.6%
Leaving 1 dead and 1 injured
Eight provinces in the Democratic Republic of the Congo are battling
Promote gender equality: 14 civic groups invite mayoral candidates to sign pledge
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
14 civic groups issued a joint statement outlining 3 demands for advancing gender equality and inviting county and city mayoral candidates to sign a pledge. The results are expected to be announced a week before voting day.
Facts
14 civic groups that have long promoted gender equality and human rights
Taiwan ratified the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women in 2007
and enacted an implementing law in 2011
Put forward 3 demands for advancing gender equality
Neither gender should account for less than 40% of committee members
The goal should be for women to hold 40% of top-level posts
Kaohsiung Su-mei’s graft case opens; she denies wrongdoing and hopes judge will clear her name
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The graft case against independent lawmaker 高金素梅 went to trial for the first time. She denied charges including claiming more than NT$7.87 million in fraudulent aide expenses and illegally importing rapid test kits from China. She said aide 張俊傑 handled administrative matters and that she was unaware of them, and expressed hope that the judge would clear her name.
Facts
More than NT$7.87 million
As many as 74,400 doses
Original高金素梅、助理張俊傑等24人
Prosecutors sought a sentence of at least 12 years and 6 months for 高金
Prosecutors sought a prison sentence of at least 16 years for 張
China’s industrial profits accelerate in September, concentrated in a handful of sectors
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Industrial profits in China rose 14.4% year over year in September, accelerating but concentrated in a handful of sectors, as weak domestic demand and continued competition squeezed earnings.
Facts
Industrial profits rose 14.4% year over year in September
Above August’s 4.2%
Industrial profits rose 15.5% year over year in the first 9 months of this year
Slightly below the 15.7% growth in the first 8 months
Industrial producer prices rose 5% year over year in September
Profits in computer, communications and other electronic equipment manufacturing surged 103.8%
Fire breaks out in Seoul shantytown of Guryong Village; Lee Jae-myung orders all-out firefighting effort
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A fire broke out in Guryong Village in Seoul’s Gangnam District, producing heavy smoke and prompting the closure of roads connecting the area. No casualties have been reported. President Lee Jae-myung ordered all resources to be mobilized for firefighting and rescue efforts. Fire authorities deployed 51 vehicles and 168 personnel, while police imposed traffic controls.
President: Strengthen national defense and economic resilience to steadily lead the country forward
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
President Lai Ching-te met with a World Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce delegation, saying he would lead the country calmly and steadily in the face of China’s verbal and military intimidation. He said strengthening national defense, boosting economic resilience and deepening international cooperation would maintain peace and stability. He also announced that, if the budget is approved, NT$25 billion will be allocated annually starting next year to help small and medium-sized businesses upgrade and transform.
Facts
柯杜瑞琴, the 90-year-old founding president of the World Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce
An annual budget of NT$25 billion starting next year
Introduce a growth allowance for ages 0 to 18
Allowing each child to receive 5,000 per month
A budget related to the universal NT$10,000 AI dividend
謝瓊煖 wins supporting actress award; absent from Golden Bell Awards due to filming, embraces 洪都拉斯 in encouragement
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
At the 61st Golden Bell Awards, actor 謝瓊煖 won the Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Program award for the drama “The Love We Make.” She was filming “Mom’s Tofu” at the time, and the crew surprised her with congratulations and hugs. 洪都拉斯, who missed the awards due to filming, was nominated for Best Actor in a Miniseries for “大仙尪仔” but did not win. The two later encouraged each other.
NFL announced that Jay-Z will take the stage for the halftime show at the 61st Super Bowl in 2027, with his Roc Nation handling production. The game will be held in Los Angeles and broadcast by 迪士尼旗下ABC and ESPN.
Taoyuan’s Daxi Craft Week kicks off on the 31st, bringing together 7 international craft cities
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Daxi Craft Week 2026 will run from October 31 to November 8, connecting 38 local craft venues and inviting 7 international craft cities—including Chiang Mai, Thailand; Higashikawa, Hokkaido, Japan; and Tobe, Ehime Prefecture, Japan—to take part in exchanges. Exhibitions, markets and hands-on activities will showcase craft culture in Daxi.
Facts
Daxi Craft Week 2026
October 31 to November 8
Connects 38 local craft venues
Brings together 7 international craft cities for exchange
A themed exhibition and sales event featuring 31 participants from Japan, including furniture workshops and lifestyle craft brands
A distinctive craft market featuring 30 Taiwanese craft brands
Launches 3 “Open Workshop” routes
Furniture exhibition and sales exchange featuring 9 woodworking workshops from Higashikawa, Hokkaido
5 Japanese cities
22 craft brands exhibiting and selling their products
30 brands from across Taiwan take part in the craft market
Taroko National Park Headquarters and Tongli Tribal Association sign MOU to build a new vision for sustainable development
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taroko National Park Headquarters and the Tongli Tribal Association signed an MOU, combining national park management expertise with local Indigenous knowledge to jointly promote post-earthquake forest restoration, trail maintenance and sustainable governance.
Police launch investigation after video appears to show girl in Taichung being assaulted and slapped
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
台中市警察局 has launched an investigation into a video circulating online that appears to show a girl being assaulted. Authorities have identified the people involved, and 社會局 has assigned a social worker to provide assistance. Police said they would handle the case in accordance with the law.
洪棟霖 releases campaign song “媽宮向前行,” created with contributions from Penghu youth
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
洪棟霖, the Kuomintang candidate for Magong mayor, released the campaign song “媽宮向前行,” created by local young people. He hopes it will unite the city and promote local development.
Former senior Japanese prosecutor accused of sexually assaulting subordinate changes plea and denies wrongdoing
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
北川健太郎, former head of the Osaka District Public Prosecutors Office, is accused of sexually assaulting a female subordinate in 2018. He previously admitted to the offense but pleaded not guilty at today’s hearing. Prosecutors and defense attorneys disputed whether the woman was in a position where she could not resist. A verdict is expected in March 2027.
Facts
The defendant, 北川健太郎, is currently 67
In 2018, while in office, at a dormitory
The Osaka District Court first heard the case in October 2024
The trial was also suspended for 2 years
Including today’s hearing, the Osaka District Court will hold 9 hearings
A verdict is expected on March 12, 2027
(Translated by: 楊惟敬) 1151027
Companies mentioned：中央訊息、中央社、日本放送協會、NHK、日本電視台、Nippon TV
Renews for 1 year with 韓華鷹; 王彥程: “I wouldn’t be here without them”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwanese pitcher 王彥程 renewed his contract with 韓華鷹 for 1 year, with his salary raised to US$200,000 and a US$100,000 signing bonus, setting a record for the maximum salary increase for an Asian import player.
Sculptor 王秀杞 creates “Reading Boy” bronze sculpture unveiled at 國父紀念館
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A bronze sculpture, Reading Boy, by sculptor Wang Hsiu-chi was unveiled in the calligraphy art park on the west side of 國父紀念館. Donated jointly by 台北市西區女獅子會 and 日本青森真秀之地獅子會, it stands alongside the existing Reading Girl sculpture to encourage young people to read.
On the ground in Changsha》Unemployment surges and the traffic economy rules! As the “urban walking” movement clashes with social controls, how can self-media creators survive in the cracks?
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article interviews Fei'er, a self-media creator in Changsha, about strategies for survival amid social controls and the traffic economy. Fei'er champions “urban walking,” observing the city through a lens that sets aside its functional purpose. He seeks a balance between commercial demands and official narratives, building connections with the public through personal experiences and historical interpretation.
Facts
Fei'er previously worked at Xinhua News Agency, then left for personal reasons and returned to Changsha, Hunan, as a new resident and urban observer.
Inspired by Hong Kong writer Wong Yu-hsuan's Urban Walking, Fei'er learned about related practices in Japan, Britain and France. He sees urban walking as a way to observe cities anew by setting aside their functional purpose.
Public discussion on the Chinese internet has shifted from Weibo and forums to short-video platforms. Video has lowered the barrier to expression, making “everyone a microphone.”
Fei'er believes self-media creators cannot avoid the demands of monetization, with traffic and income being unavoidable factors.
Changsha embodies opposing qualities at once: extremes and tolerance, progress and conservatism. It is a microcosm of many Chinese cities.
Fei'er discussed the historical links between Changsha and Taiwan, citing Zhongshan Pavilion, 國父紀念館 and the memorial sites to fallen heroes on Mount Yuelu.
Fei'er believes historical content should not be reduced to dry compilations of information, nor should historical figures be simplified into purely positive or negative characters.
Report: 輝達, AMD and 英特爾 to “pour another US$5 billion into Taiwanese companies”! These 3 Taiwan companies hold key positions in the AI supply chain
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
AMD, 輝達 and 英特爾 have reportedly paid more than US$5 billion in deposits to Taiwanese substrate makers 欣興, 景碩 and 南電 to secure capacity in the AI chip supply chain, amid tight capacity and rising prices.
Facts
AMD, 輝達 and 英特爾 have reportedly paid a combined total of more than US$5 billion in deposits to Taiwanese substrate manufacturers including 欣興, 景碩 and 南電.
The sum is comparable to the investment by Taiwan's 3 major substrate makers to expand production lines and factory facilities.
Original今年5月時有報告指出，在產能吃緊、交期延長的情況下，ABF載板製造商開始調漲價格。
輝達 and 特斯拉 are increasing their investment in 三星電子 to secure supply capacity for FC-BGA substrates.
FC-BGA substrates are a newer substrate technology used mainly for AI chips.
Seeking to abolish exemptions while retaining talent! South Korea wants outstanding athletes and artists to defer conscription until their late 30s
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
South Korea's Defense Ministry is pushing for military service reform following controversy over the men's soccer team at the Asian Games. It plans to abolish exemption provisions for arts and sports, replacing them with a transitional measure extending the age for deferment to the mid-to-late 30s. Details are expected to be announced in 2027.
Facts
South Korea's Defense Ministry plans to abolish the alternative-service system, including provisions for arts and sports personnel, as part of its defense reform plan.
As compensation for ending exemptions, the government will allow people in sports and the arts who are no longer eligible for exemptions to defer service for longer, allowing them to fulfill their military obligations in their mid-to-late 30s.
The change follows public backlash over the South Korean men's national soccer team's conduct and remarks after a match at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games.
Under current regulations, athletes may defer service until age 27 only for a very small number of exceptional contributions, such as setting a new Korean record.
The quota for “special research personnel” pursuing master's or doctoral degrees, as well as “industrial technical personnel” working at small and medium-sized businesses, will also be sharply reduced step by step until the system is eventually abolished.
Taichung household registration offices suspend some evening and holiday services in November for 11/28 local elections and referendum voter registration
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Taichung City's Civil Affairs Bureau announced that some evening and holiday household registration services will be suspended in November to accommodate election arrangements for the Nov. 28 elections and referendum. Bureau Director Wu Shih-wei urged residents to plan ahead, adding that couples can use the advance appointment system to protect their rights.
Facts
The polling date for the Year 115 local public office elections and national referendum is Nov. 28.
Taichung City's household registration offices will suspend extended evening services on Nov. 6, 13 and 27.
Taichung City's household registration offices will suspend holiday appointment services on Nov. 7, 8, 14, 15 and 28.
The director of Taichung City's Civil Affairs Bureau is Wu Shih-wei.
Under current household registration regulations, couples may register their marriage within 3 working days before their planned registration date and specify the date it takes effect.
2026 New Taipei City Exhibition opens at Sanchong Anxin Center on 10/30! “New Taipei Band: Composing the Future” features 3 themes linking urban development with new cultural experiences
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The 2026 New Taipei City Exhibition will run from Oct. 30 to Dec. 27 at Sanchong Anxin Center. Organized by the New Taipei City Cultural Affairs Department, it aims to showcase the city's development and offer new cultural experiences through 3 themed exhibitions.
Facts
The 2026 New Taipei City Exhibition, “New Taipei Band: Composing the Future,” will run from Oct. 30 to Dec. 27 at the New Taipei City Government's Sanchong Anxin Center.
The exhibition features 3 major themes: “Composing the City,” “Composing Together,” and “Composing Daily Life.”
The exhibition spans the first, second, third and fifth floors of Anxin Center.
The Chun Ho Theater will present the play A Bowl of Plain Noodles, Boss! on opening day and Nov. 1.
Sanchong Anxin Center is a key development project in New Taipei City's plan to establish dual cores in the Xinan and Xibei areas.
The exhibition draws on Sanchong's past as a major hub for vinyl record manufacturing in Taiwan.
This article rounds up major international news on Oct. 27, covering five key issues: a diplomatic impasse in the Middle East, fact-checking an online rumor in China, risks to Taiwan's AI strategy, the state of press freedom in Hong Kong and changes to Japan's visa policies.
Facts
Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid, Pakistan Army Chief of Staff Munir and Turkish National Intelligence Organization Director Kalin arrived together in Tehran on Oct. 26 for closed-door talks with senior officials, including Iranian President Pezeshkian.
The 4 countries issued a joint statement after the meeting, agreeing to continue dialogue but announcing no breakthroughs.
自由亞洲電台 fact-checked an online petition purportedly endorsed by 14 Chinese universities and found that it had no individual signatories. Website registration data showed the country code was South Korea.
Liang Chia-li, founder of 追光者, said a reader who feared that paying by card online would leave a record that could prompt a national security investigation flew to Taiwan to hand them cash in person.
Japan raised the capital requirement for business manager visas from 5 million yen to 30 million yen, and increased the permanent residency application fee from 10,000 yen to 200,000 yen.
A smart learning hub for all ages shaped by mountain aesthetics: County library headquarters design unveiled, with the 2.1 billion project expected to be completed in Year 119
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Miaoli County Government is pursuing a project to build a county library headquarters with a total budget of NT$2.1 billion. County Magistrate Chung Tung-chin unveiled design highlights inspired by “Miaoli's Hills” at a news conference on the 27th. The project is expected to be completed in Year 119 and aims to create a smart learning hub for all ages.
Facts
The Miaoli County Library headquarters project has a total budget of NT$2.1 billion.
The Ministry of Education is providing NT$480 million in project funding.
The Miaoli County Library headquarters is expected to be completed in Year 119.
The library headquarters will be built on the current site of the Miaoli County Police Bureau.
The library headquarters is planned as a building with 1 underground floor and 4 above-ground floors.
Design and construction supervision for the library headquarters have been commissioned to Yu Hsiao-lan Architects.
County Magistrate Chung Tung-chin unveiled design highlights for the library headquarters at a news conference on the 27th.
Ink-wash landscapes transformed into three-dimensional ceramics: Tang Rong's “Layers of Mountain Colors” solo exhibition opens at the ceramics museum
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Ceramic artist Tang Rong is holding a solo exhibition, “Layers of Mountain Colors,” at 新北市立鶯歌陶瓷博物館, turning ink-wash landscapes into three-dimensional ceramic sculptures. The exhibition runs through Nov. 15.
Facts
“Layers of Mountain Colors: Tang Rong Solo Exhibition” is on view at the Ceramics Gallery on B1 of the ceramics museum through Nov. 15.
Ceramic artist Tang Rong graduated from the Department of Arts and Design at 國立清華大學 and earned a master's degree from the Graduate Institute of Cultural Industries at 國立臺北科技大學.
唐榕 was selected for the Creative Award at the Taiwan Ceramics Awards in 2025.
The work “山侘” extends the imagery of a window through mounting techniques, placing painted porcelain tiles in a frame and pairing them with hand-dyed paper.
The work “覓山行” evokes mountain forests through ten independent mountain sculptures, each with a different form and posture.
Stroll through a military dependents’ village for creative inspiration: Guangfu New Village pop-up market launches at month’s end, with nostalgic experiences and a chance to win a grand-prize iPad
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Taichung City Government Labor Affairs Bureau will hold a pop-up event at Guangfu New Village from Oct. 31 to Nov. 8, combining selections from youth brands with a nostalgic exhibition to promote entrepreneurial achievements and boost local tourism.
Facts
The Taichung City Government Labor Affairs Bureau will hold the “2026前進阿罩霧~~摘星光復好物快閃” event at the Youth Entrepreneurship Base in Guangfu New Village, Wufeng District, from Oct. 31 to Nov. 8.
The event will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The event will feature the “光復新村懷舊展,” showcasing classic key visuals and commemorative merchandise from past years, and will also collect old photographs.
Customers who spend at least NT$500 in a single transaction at the pop-up shop can receive a free limited-edition picnic mat.
Customers who spend at least NT$300 at designated partner youth businesses will qualify for a prize draw, with a high-end iPad among the top prizes.
The draw is scheduled to be livestreamed online on the morning of Nov. 9.
Taichung boosts support for professional childcare: first-ever long-service bonuses for childcare workers in 116年, with annual subsidies of up to NT$36,000
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Taichung Mayor 盧秀燕 announced that a long-service bonus for full-time staff at quasi-public infant care centers will launch next year, with subsidies of up to NT$36,000 based on years of service to stabilize the workforce. She also previewed a flower carpet festival at the end of October featuring Sanrio IP, along with a hotel-stay prize draw.
Facts
Taichung plans to launch a pilot program next year called the “準公共托嬰中心專任人員久任獎金”.
The long-service bonus is based on years of service, with annual subsidies of up to NT$36,000 for those with at least 5 years of service.
By the end of October this year, the number of public childcare centers in Taichung will rise to 5, an increase of more than 10 times.
Taichung’s national out-of-home childcare rate has risen sharply from 19% in the early years to 46%.
The Taichung International Flower Carpet Festival will run from Oct. 31 to Nov. 22 under the theme “甜點王國”.
This year’s flower carpet festival will use nearly 110,000 flowering plants to create a sea of flowers covering more than 10,000 square meters.
Under a city government initiative, guests staying at a legal hotel or other accommodation in Taichung by Nov. 30 can enter a prize draw to win 52 lodging vouchers.
The 2026 Taichung Shopping Festival kicks off in grand style: ride a taxi for 5 times the raffle entries and enter draws for a home; every NT$100 in fares earns a special entry number
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The 2026 Taichung Shopping Festival will run from Oct. 24 to Dec. 25. The Transportation Bureau is offering 5 times the raffle entries for taxi rides, encouraging people to travel and shop by taxi for a chance to win a home or a luxury car.
Facts
The 2026 Taichung Shopping Festival officially begins on Oct. 24 and runs through Dec. 25.
Passengers taking a taxi within Taichung City and paying a fare of at least NT$100 will receive 5 times the raffle entries based on the amount spent.
Passengers earn 1 raffle entry for every NT$100 spent on a taxi ride.
4 performance groups deliver outstanding “deconstructed stage” shows; “竹北水圳公園音樂故事” draws 20,000 visitors
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Zhubei City Office held the 水圳公園音樂故事 on the 26th, combining natural scenery with a variety of musical performances and attracting more than 20,000 people. Professional groups collaborated with a wind ensemble made up of local residents, while Mayor 鄭朝方 played the piano, transforming urban space into an artistic stage.
Facts
The Zhubei City Office in Hsinchu County held the “2026竹北水圳公園音樂故事” on the 26th, drawing more than 20,000 visits.
The Zhubei Festival Wind Band comprises 34 musicians from different age groups and professional backgrounds, ranging in age from 10 to 55.
5 years after their father’s death, a brother and sister suddenly inherit a plot of land! They thought they could sell it, but the real estate agent’s valuation left them stunned
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
和子, a 70-year-old Japanese woman, and her younger brother unexpectedly discovered an abandoned plot of land of about 54 ping in a rural area, 5 years after their father’s death. A real estate agent valued it at only several hundred thousand yen, and they would also have to cover weed-clearing and maintenance costs. The two are seeking help from a judicial scrivener and considering selling it or applying to transfer the inherited land to the national government under the inheritance land national ownership system.
Facts
A real estate agent estimated that the land might sell for only several hundred thousand yen.
Japan’s mandatory inheritance registration system took effect on April 1, 2024.
Failure to register an inheritance as required could result in an administrative fine of up to 100,000 yen.
Eligible inherited land can be submitted for transfer to the national government under the inheritance land national ownership system.
For now, the brother and sister have decided to split the land management costs equally and continue looking for a buyer.
The land is in a rural area of Japan, about a 3-hour drive each way.
Don’t overlook lighting when upgrading your desk: three key considerations for choosing a monitor light bar or desk lamp
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
喜光全光譜 has identified three key considerations for choosing monitor light bars and desk lamps amid the rise of working from home: desk layout, lighting coverage and usage habits. It has also launched new products such as TIONE and TIMAX PRO to meet different needs.
Facts
喜光全光譜 says monitor light bars are mounted directly above the screen, saving desk space and making them suitable for people with smaller work areas.
Chang Chao-kai, director of 諾貝爾眼科, advises consumers choosing screen lights to pay attention to the illuminated area and uniformity on the desktop.
TIONE PRO, launched by 喜光全光譜, features three lamp arms, three joints, a seat sensor and wireless remote control.
TIMAX PRO is equipped with an 80-centimeter light bar and can illuminate an area up to 220 centimeters wide.
Some monitor lights have a more concentrated beam that may not cover the entire work area of a large desk or dual-monitor setup.