Shen Po-yang campaigns for Tsai Yi-yu by video link as Han Kuo-yu rallies support for Wu Pin-jui
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Democratic Progressive Party Taipei mayoral candidate Shen Po-yang campaigned by video link for fellow party member Tsai Yi-yu, a candidate for Chiayi County magistrate, and discussed county-city cooperation and linking industrial supply chains. Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu, meanwhile, traveled to Puzi City in Chiayi County to rally support for independent Chiayi County candidate Wu Pin-jui, urging local residents to back him.
Facts
2026 Nine-in-One Elections
Development plans for counties and cities over the next 10 and 20 years
Earthquake strikes Japan before dawn; NHK anchor praised for professionalism after going on air barefaced and with messy hair
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
An earthquake with a maximum intensity of upper 5 struck Aichi Prefecture, Japan, before dawn. Just 10 minutes later, Inai Sayaka, an anchor at NHK Nagano, went on air barefaced and with messy hair, earning praise from Japanese internet users for her professionalism.
食藥署: Suspected adverse reaction reports for weight-loss shots reach 63; not a rare side effect
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
食藥署 announced it received 63 suspected adverse reaction reports this year involving GLP-1 weight-loss shots. Common symptoms included gastrointestinal disorders, low blood sugar and nausea. Medical professionals warned of anesthesia risks and are promoting cross-border cooperation in Asia to develop guidelines.
Facts
63 suspected adverse reaction reports involving GLP-1 drugs used for weight loss
President Lai visits Wen’ao City God Temple in Penghu and presents plaque, praying for peace and prosperity
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
President Lai Ching-te paid his respects at Wen’ao City God Temple in Penghu and presented a plaque with his blessings, while also praising 民進黨 Penghu County magistrate candidate Wu Shu-chin. He mentioned the budget for fiscal year 116 and welfare measures including a payment of NT$10,000.
Facts
Central government agency budgets for fiscal year 116
NT$10,000
The 23rd year of the Qing Kangxi reign (1684)
It has a history of more than 340 years
Announced by the Ministry of the Interior in November 74
In June of the Republic of China year 96, following revisions to the Cultural Heritage Preservation Act
CNA chairman Robert Tsao calls Chiang Wan-an an evil spirit; Shen Po-yang says souls are beyond his scope of judgment
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Former 聯電 chairman Robert Tsao posted that Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an was an “evil spirit.” Democratic Progressive Party Taipei mayoral candidate Shen Po-yang responded that Chiang was a worthy opponent on municipal affairs, but that his soul was beyond the scope of his judgment. Shen also said his campaign strategy would proceed according to plan.
Facts
Key News of the 2026 Nine-in-One Elections
Taipei, 8
Today was the 2nd time I invited Lee Yuan to attend
First home built under a housing plan on Indigenous reserve land completed in Pingtung’s Majia Village
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A home built under a housing plan on Indigenous reserve land in Majia Village, Sandimen Township, Pingtung County, has been completed. The home of owner Chen Chu-hsiang is the first in the country built under this process, marking an important milestone in safeguarding Indigenous people’s housing rights.
Facts
Cost about NT$3 million
Took about 5 years
Moved to the current site nearly 60 years ago
Sought land for construction since 1995
Obtained 4,000 square meters of land
Launched a unified planning process for construction sites on Indigenous reserve land in 2019
The first phase helped 17 households obtain land-use rights for construction sites
Tsao Hsing-cheng calls Chiang Wan-an one of the evil spirits; Chiang says familiar recall rhetoric is back
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Former 聯電 chairman Robert Tsao called Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an one of the evil spirits. Chiang responded that the familiar rhetoric of a major recall campaign had resurfaced. He also criticized Premier Cho Jung-tai for leaving behind problems such as tainted oil, and praised Lee Chuan for his construction work in Kaohsiung.
Japanese councilor slammed for flaunting wealth after 37,000-yen sushi meal; says he paid himself and refuses to apologize
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Shinjuku Ward Assembly member Yasushi Watanabe sparked accusations of flaunting wealth after sharing on social media that he and his wife spent 180,000 yen (about NT$37,000) on high-end sushi. He said he paid for it himself and did not use public funds, and refused to apologize. Fellow local assembly member Kana Shindo defended his freedom to spend his own money, while political scholar Akai Oi pointed to the conflicting views Japanese people hold of politicians and the need to improve the “dining politics” culture.
Facts
Spent 180,000 yen
About NT$37,000
Rose by about 40,000 yen
The 2,633 Shinjuku residents who voted for me
Political activity expenses are about 150,000 yen a month
Hiroshi Abe prays at Xiahai City God Temple for an unbreakable bond with Taiwan; “The Convenient Sticky Note” heads to 金馬影展
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Taiwan-Japan co-produced film “The Convenient Sticky Note” screened at 金馬影展, with director Bunji Sotoyama and lead actor Hiroshi Abe visiting Taiwan to promote it. Abe said he had prayed at Xiahai City God Temple for the film to be a hit and for an unbreakable bond with Taiwan. The two also shared stories about sightseeing in Taipei and buying souvenirs.
First female F-16 pilot Chiang Hui-yu flies newly acquired blk70 fighter jet back to Taiwan from the U.S.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 2nd batch of 3 of the 66 F-16V (block70) fighter jets purchased by the 空軍 from the U.S. arrived at Chihhang Air Base in Taitung, bringing the total returned to Taiwan to 5. The first female F-16 pilot, Chiang Hui-yu, took part in the mission. On landing, the pilots made a “21” hand gesture to represent the 空軍 Fourth Wing’s 21st Tactical Fighter Squadron.
House fire in Taoyuan; firefighters quickly extinguish blaze, no injuries reported
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A house on Xinpu Ba Street in Taoyuan District, Taoyuan City, caught fire. The fire department dispatched 7 personnel and 3 vehicles after receiving the report and extinguished the blaze at 2:17 p.m. No one was injured, and the cause of the fire is under investigation.
Anti-government protests in France enter 4th week; clashes erupt between police and protesters in Paris
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Anti-government protests broke out across France, with some demonstrators clashing with police in Paris. The French Interior Ministry said 146,000 people took part nationwide, while unions estimated 250,000. The far right sees the election as an opportunity to seize power, and the prime minister will meet with unions to discuss wages.
Facts
A total of 146,000 people took part in protests nationwide today
Including 46,000 in Paris
Unions estimated that 250,000 people took to the streets nationwide
Authorities estimated that 575,000 people took part
Unions put the figure at 1.6 million
About 200 violent agitators
France deployed about 70,000 security personnel today
奇鋐 October revenue reaches NT$22.1 billion, up 34% year on year; sets record for 3rd straight month
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
奇鋐 posted October revenue of NT$22.102 billion, up 34.35% year on year, setting a record for the 3rd consecutive month. Revenue for the first 10 months totaled NT$179.351 billion, exceeding the full-year total for last year.
Facts
NT$22.102 billion
Up 34.35% year on year
Up 5.2% month on month
Revenue for the first 10 months of this year was NT$179.351 billion
Up 65.58% from the same period last year
Full-year revenue last year was NT$139.639 billion
Chang Ching-chao launches campaign headquarters; Cheng Li-wun, Lu Shiow-yen and Chiang Chi-chen show strong support
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
KMT Taichung City Councilor Chang Ching-chao set up his campaign headquarters, with KMT Chair Cheng Li-wun, Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen and KMT Taichung mayoral candidate Chiang Chi-chen among those showing strong support and urging local residents to unite and turn out the vote.
Kaohsiung targets Muslim tourism market; 43 hotels and guesthouses earn Muslim-friendly certification
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
高雄市觀光局 has helped hotels and guesthouses obtain Muslim-friendly certification, bringing the total to 43. It has also set up relevant facilities and offered subsidies to expand the Muslim tourism market.
After Yemen rebels accuse Saudi Arabia of airstrike killing 33, missiles fired toward Riyadh intercepted
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Yemen's Houthi rebels accused Saudi Arabia of an airstrike that killed 33 people, after which a loud blast was heard in Riyadh. The Saudi-led coalition said it intercepted and destroyed 2 ballistic missiles.
GLAY announces Taiwan concerts in 2027; lead singer invites Japanese fans to visit
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Japanese band GLAY announced it will hold concerts at the Taipei Music Center on March 6 and 7, 2027. Lead singer TERU invited Japanese fans to visit Taiwan and attend the shows.
Election fever raises scam risks; Criminal Investigation Bureau reports 87 fake campaign-gift scams in a month
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Criminal Investigation Bureau recorded 87 scams in October involving fake giveaways of campaign merchandise, with financial losses exceeding NT$19.11 million. It warned the public about multi-stage scams that use real-name verification as a pretext.
Facts
A total of 87 scams involving fake campaign-merchandise giveaways in October
Financial losses totaled NT$19.11 million
All you need to pay is a NT$40 shipping fee
Financial losses reached NT$1.39 million
Losses also reached NT$1.65 million
They fell for a fake customer-service scam over a NT$60 shipping fee
Panamanian lawmaker hopes Taiwan will establish trade office to deepen bilateral ties
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Panamanian lawmaker Vega told an interview during the IPAC summit that he hoped Taiwan would establish a trade office in Panama to deepen bilateral ties. He stressed that Panama is a democratic country that does not accept communist influence, and said he faced pressure from the Chinese Embassy in Panama during a visit to Taiwan last year.
Facts
52 lawmakers from 30 countries attended
6 members of Panama's National Assembly attended
Panama switched diplomatic recognition to China in 2017
It was not until November 2025 that a delegation of Panamanian lawmakers visited Taiwan
Further delegations visited Taiwan in February and July 2026
3 delegations visited Taiwan in two years
This September, under the leadership of IPAC members and Panamanian lawmakers José Antonio Pérez-Barboni and Joan Manuel Guevara
As many as 50 of the current 71 lawmakers are members
Hsieh Kuo-liang attends Sung Wei-li support group launch, says Zhonghe Road parking lot is complete
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Keelung Mayor Hsieh Kuo-liang attended the launch of Sung Wei-li's support group and announced that the parking lot on Lane 200, Zhonghe Road, is complete, adding spaces for cars and motorcycles. He also said the city government has completed 12 parking lots to date, providing substantial additional parking to ease local demand.
Facts
45 new car spaces
25 motorcycle parking spaces
About 70 more car parking spaces
12 public off-street neighborhood parking lots completed
Preserving memories before the relocation of Dalinpu; 3rd-generation youth become cultural baggage handlers
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Third-generation young people from Dalinpu formed the 「大鼻青年」 team. Before the relocation, they collected old photographs and interviewed residents through the 《Memory Transfer Project》, documenting lives shared with industrial pollution. Through publications, audio maps and exhibitions, they turned personal stories into collective memories to strengthen community identity.
Facts
Encouraging young people aged 18 to 35 to preserve the area's precious cultural heritage
Youth Community Participation Action 2.0 Program
The exhibition runs December 5 to 6 at Warehouses 2 and 3 of Songshan Cultural and Creative Park in Taipei
115 Youth Community Participation Action 2.0 Changemaker and Youth Gathering Point Program Outcomes Exhibition
K-pop group BTS to perform in Kaohsiung; city offers shopping district and night market coupons for fans
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
K-pop group BTS will perform in Kaohsiung on the 19th, 21st and 22nd. 高雄市經發局 is offering 「2026 Shopping District and Night Market Coupons」 worth NT$50 each for ticket holders to redeem, combining the concerts with local shopping districts and night markets to boost the concert economy.
Lin Yu-chang backs Tung Tzu-wei, offers to lead city affairs advisory team and keep him in check
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Executive Yuan Deputy Premier Cheng Li-chun and former Keelung Mayor Lin Yu-chang visited the 「Keelung 400 Exhibition」 with Tung Tzu-wei, the DPP's Keelung mayoral candidate. Lin said that if Tung is elected mayor, he would be willing to lead the city affairs advisory team and keep him accountable for his policies, and said he hoped to accelerate Keelung's development. Cheng praised the cultural governance achievements of Lin's 8 years in office and voiced support for Tung's plans to revitalize Keelung through culture and advance the 「Keelung Port Twin Hearts」 project.
Facts
Keelung 400 exhibition
Many projects have stalled in the past 4 years
During his 4 years as mayor
The public felt the impact of 8 years of governance
RSF: China's pressure on Thai media risks prompting self-censorship and harming press freedom
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
無國界記者組織（RSF） said China is expanding its influence over Thai media through diplomatic pressure, media partnerships and invitations for Thai journalists to visit, potentially leading to self-censorship and harming press freedom.
Financial holding companies' overseas exposure hit a record NT$33.0373 trillion in the 3rd quarter of this year, up 16.35% year over year. Singapore returned to the top 10 exposure countries for the first time in 11 years. Japan and Singapore ranked first and second in annual growth, respectively. The United States remained the largest exposure country, while China's exposure fell below NT$2 trillion.
Facts
NT$33.0373 trillion
Up 4.95% quarter over quarter
Up 16.35% year over year
Net investments of NT$23.69 trillion
Accounted for 71.7%
Net loans of NT$7.1 trillion
Accounted for about 21.5%
Interbank deposits and borrowings totaled about NT$2.2 trillion
accounted for 6.7%
up 44.89% year on year
up 41.35% year on year
up 25.01% year on year
U.S. exposure totaled NT$11.7 trillion in the third quarter
Even bathing and cooking have become a challenge: Batam residents protest AI data centers’ consumption of water needed by the public
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Residents of Indonesia’s Batam Island protested shortages of water for public use caused by the construction of AI data centers and drought. A KPMG report says data center capacity in Southeast Asia is expected to reach 3 times its 2025 level by 2030.
Facts
driven by a 10-fold surge in AI usage
expected to reach 3 times the 2025 level by 2030
reach 3 times the 2025 level
suspended approvals for new data center development projects from 2019 to 2022
invest hundreds of billions of dollars
increase the storage capacity of Batam Island’s 6 reservoirs
14-year-old girl with cleft lip and palate overcomes fear of crowds; camp helps children with craniofacial conditions embrace themselves
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
14-year-old Jian Jie overcame her fear of crowds, served as a group leader at a camp organized by 羅慧夫顱顏基金會, and received the 2026 Northern Taiwan De Fu Scholarship.
Canvassing at markets, Lai Jui-lung says he will make the most of the time to win more support
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Kaohsiung mayoral candidate Lai Jui-lung and several 民進黨 city council candidates canvassed at Hello Market, stressing that he came from a market family and understands local concerns. They urged voters to support their team on Nov. 28. The 國民黨 candidate Ko Chih-en responded by criticizing Lai for fixating on former mayor Han Kuo-yu’s policies.
Egypt’s oldest monastery, a crossroads of three religions, faces challenges from tourism and preservation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Egyptian government reached a land-contract agreement with Saint Catherine’s Monastery and is promoting the “Great Transfiguration Project” to develop the area as an international religious and ecotourism center. The move has prompted concerns among international heritage conservation advocates about damage to the natural landscape and the traditional way of life of the Bedouin people. The Egyptian government has pledged to protect the monastery’s religious status and preserve its original architecture.
Facts
built in the 6th century AD
Original2002年由聯合國教科文組織（UNESCO）正式登錄為世界文化遺產
has witnessed the transmission of religious traditions over the past 1500 years
a mosque built in 1106
more than nine-tenths of the project has been completed
Hsieh Lung-chieh makes another bid for Tainan mayor, seeking support with housing and family policies
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
國民黨 lawmaker Hsieh Lung-chieh announced he would run again for Tainan mayor in 2026, promoting a “blue-and-white alliance” and a broad coalition of opposition parties. His platform includes housing for couples and families with children, increased childcare subsidies and benefits for seniors. He also stressed that he would serve only one term.
Facts
lost by just over 40,000 votes
construction cost of NT$150,000 per ping
aims to build 4,000 to 8,000 units
NT$3,000 longevity gift for seniors
NT$1,000 monthly allowance on the senior citizen card
Chen Chi-mai criticizes city hall relocation plan; Ko Chih-en says not to squander public support for the election
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai criticized 國民黨 Kaohsiung mayoral candidate Ko Chih-en’s proposal to relocate city hall to the 205 Arsenal site, saying it could cost NT$85 billion. Ko responded that she had not cited that amount and advised Chen not to squander public support for the election.
Pope visits Uruguay’s most dangerous neighborhood, denounces drug violence that endangers children
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Pope Leo XIV visited Uruguay’s most dangerous neighborhood and the city of Paysandú, denouncing the harm that drug violence and poverty inflict on children and urging people to overcome indifference and promote solidarity.
Iran says two tankers caught fire after striking mines in the Strait of Hormuz; explosions reported in several areas
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Iran’s 革命衛隊 said two tankers struck mines and caught fire in the Strait of Hormuz, with explosions reported in several areas. 美軍中央司令部 said it had helped Persian Gulf countries export large volumes of oil and clear mines.
Hsieh Tien-lin opens campaign headquarters; Cheng Ju-fen chokes up as she urges locals to canvass
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Changhua County Council Speaker Hsieh Tien-lin opened his campaign headquarters, with 國民黨 Chairwoman Cheng Li-wen and Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu attending to show their support. Hsieh is in custody over an alleged vote-buying case; his mother, Cheng Ju-fen, choked up as she urged locals to canvass to bring her husband and son back.
Chen Ting-fei takes a down-to-earth approach to local outreach, vying to become Fucheng’s first woman mayor in 400 years
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
民進黨 Tainan mayoral candidate Chen Ting-fei is building local support with a down-to-earth approach as she vies to become Fucheng’s first woman mayor in 400 years.
Facts
Key News of the 2026 Nine-in-One Elections
vying to become Fucheng’s first woman mayor in 400 years
28 years in politics
Elected to the Tainan City Council at age 23
Covered all 37 of Tainan’s administrative districts
Second batch of F-16V Block 70s arrives in Taiwan; pilot flashes “21” sign, thrilling military enthusiasts
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The second batch of 3 F-16V (Block 70) fighter jets out of the 66 Taiwan purchased arrived in Taiwan. The pilot flashed a “21” sign, exciting military enthusiasts.
Boosting cities’ climate-change resilience: Taoyuan to use heat-island and wind-corridor analysis
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taoyuan City’s Department of Urban Development selected the development areas around Zhonglu Station and Pingzhen Station for heat-island, wind-environment and microclimate analyses. The findings will be incorporated into land-use controls and urban design strategies to improve the city’s ability to adapt to climate change.
Lai Ching-te crosses the sea to back Wu Shu-chin, hopes she will continue Chen Kuang-fu’s achievements in office
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
President Lai Ching-te traveled to Penghu to campaign for DPP county magistrate candidate Wu Shu-chin, praising her for bravely shouldering responsibility like the island’s national flower, the Gaillardia. He said he hoped she would build on Chen Kuang-fu’s pragmatic governance and move Penghu toward becoming a happy, livable city.
Israel’s largest opposition bloc gets mandate to form government; possible outcomes at a glance
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Israeli President Isaac Herzog tasked opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot with forming a government, but the task will be extremely difficult because he would depend on support from Arab parties and faces divisions within his own bloc. If he fails, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu could take over or the country could hold another election.
Li Chien-lung says “ocean current” took hold too early; Puma Shen says team remains on guard
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
KMT Vice Chairman Li Chien-lung said the “ocean current” phenomenon took hold too early and had already ebbed. DPP Taipei mayoral candidate Puma Shen responded that his team remained on guard, criticized Chiang Wan-an supporters for shouting at shopkeepers, and also mentioned Premier Cho Jung-tai’s appearance to show support and controversy over housing policy.
Facts
Key News of the 2026 Nine-in-One Elections
Taipei, 8
If it had emerged 2 or 3 weeks later, it could have faced greater pressure
シェアード・モビリティ・ネットワークス received an order to commence special liquidation from the Tokyo District Court on Oct. 21. The company operated “Shaero,” a sharing service for folding electric motorcycles, but dissolved amid a worsening business environment. The amount of its liabilities is currently under investigation.
花嫁わた株式会社 suspended operations as of Nov. 2 and entrusted an attorney with winding-up procedures. The company took over the business of 旧・花嫁わた（株）, but orders declined due to changes in demand and the entry of competitors, leading it to abandon continued operations. The amount of liabilities is currently under investigation.
ガイアファンディング株式会社 had a bankruptcy petition filed by a creditor on July 15 and received a bankruptcy commencement order on Oct. 14. Liabilities are about 6.04535 billion yen.
株式会社いちのや (formerly 株式会社本塁打) received a bankruptcy commencement order from the Tokyo District Court on Sept. 30. Operating "Nori-ben Ichinoya," it had reported annual sales of about 641 million yen and 28 stores, including directly operated and franchise locations, in the fiscal year ended May 2024, but its cash flow worsened due to the burden of store-opening funds, rising costs, and intensifying competition. It came under the umbrella of a rice wholesaler in September 2024, but sales fell to about 614 million yen in the fiscal year ended May 2025, and it had closed its Yasukuni-dori main store on July 31, 2026. Liabilities are currently under investigation.
Facts
It had reported annual sales of about 641 million yen in the fiscal year ended May 2024
Annual sales for the fiscal year ended May 2025 fell to about 614 million yen
It had opened 28 stores, including directly operated and franchise stores
On Sept. 30, it received a bankruptcy commencement order from the Tokyo District Court
It was established in May 2021 (Reiwa 3)
The creditor claim filing period runs until Oct. 28
It closed its flagship Yasukuni-dori main store on July 31, 2026
日本トイザらス株式会社 filed for application of the Civil Rehabilitation Act with the Tokyo District Court on Oct. 1 and received a rehabilitation proceedings commencement order on Oct. 6. Its liabilities total about 13.2 billion yen (about 1,100 creditors), making it the largest bankruptcy ever among toy retailers. The company has concluded a business transfer agreement with Pan Pacific International Holdings, which operates ドン・キホーテ, and Operation Shared Services, and will continue operating with DIP financing from 三菱UFJ銀行. The deadline for submitting the rehabilitation plan is Jan. 13, 2027.
Facts
日本トイザらス（株）(capital: 10 million yen
Liabilities are about 13.2 billion yen against about 1,100 creditors
In the fiscal year ended January 2007, it posted annual sales of about 194.364 billion yen
Annual sales for the fiscal year ended December 2025 (fiscal year-end changed) came to only about 75.211 billion yen
It had posted losses for 8 consecutive terms at the net income level
The filing attorneys are attorney 仁瓶善太郎 and 15 others
株式会社絆ホールディングス and 4 other companies were ordered by 大阪市 to return about 11 billion yen for fraudulent receipt of the employment transition support system additional payment, and had their designations revoked. In response, the petition to commence rehabilitation proceedings was dismissed by the Osaka District Court, and a preservation administration order was issued. Total liabilities of the 5 companies amount to about 28.9 billion yen.
On Oct. 1, 日本トイザらス株式会社 filed for application of the Civil Rehabilitation Act with the Tokyo District Court, with liabilities of about 13.2 billion yen, the largest toy retailer bankruptcy ever. The business will be transferred to Pan Pacific International Holdings and will continue operating through DIP financing from 三菱UFJ銀行.
Facts
Capital: 10 million yen
Annual sales of about 194.364 billion yen
Annual sales of about 75.211 billion yen
Losses for 8 consecutive terms
About 1,100 creditors
Liabilities are about 13.2 billion yen against about 1,100 creditors
株式会社メディトランセ received a bankruptcy commencement order from the Tokyo District Court on Sept. 9. The company had been engaged in medical specimen transport and PCR testing, but lost credibility after being ordered by 東京都 to return about 1.3 billion yen for fraudulent receipt of subsidies. The amount of liabilities is under investigation.
株式会社Hatch Out and its affiliate （株）八建設 received a bankruptcy commencement order from the Osaka District Court on Aug. 31. Total liabilities are about 10.89535 billion yen.
株式会社パークエンジニア and its affiliate （株）カーパークレント filed for voluntary bankruptcy with the Osaka District Court due to worsening cash flow and received a bankruptcy commencement order. Total liabilities are about 3.51794 billion yen.
株式会社FUTURO (formerly Xクリエーション) was petitioned into bankruptcy by a creditor amid worsening cash flow and trouble with business partners, and received a bankruptcy commencement order from the Tokyo District Court on Sept. 2. Its liabilities are currently under investigation.
宗教法人多田神社 filed for application of the Civil Rehabilitation Act with the Kobe District Court by Aug. 24 and received a supervision order. Its liabilities are currently under investigation.
株式会社六石ゴルフ倶楽部 filed for application of the Civil Rehabilitation Act with the Tokyo District Court on Sept. 1, citing liabilities of about 5.6 billion yen, and received a preservation order. It aims to rebuild with support from Resol Holdings.
3 companies, 株式会社オッドナンバー, （株）イグニス and パルス(株), filed for voluntary bankruptcy with the Tokyo District Court on Aug. 4 and received commencement orders on the 5th. Combined liabilities are about 29.7 billion yen, caused by the end of each company's main business and insolvency.
Facts
Capital of 1 million yen
Capital of 100 million yen
Capital of 1.05 million yen
On Aug. 4
On the 5th of the same month
Established in March 2022 (Reiwa 4)
From 2024, operated by the company
Developed and operated since 2023
In 2024, a smartphone game app likewise
As of the December 2024 fiscal period
Insolvency reached about 9.6 billion yen as of the December 2024 fiscal period
ヒプノシスマイク -Dream Rap Battle- ended service in September 2025
In April 2026, it announced that it had fallen into a situation where "healthy management capable of continuing the service is impossible," and
ended the service in June of the same year
Originalメタバース部門でも同年5月に
Founded in May 2010 (Heisei 22)
Reorganized as a corporation in February 2021 (Reiwa 3)
Established in November 2016 (Heisei 28)
To about 153 creditors
About 10.72767 billion yen
To about 65 creditors
About 5.02492 billion yen
To about 172 creditors
About 13.98606 billion yen
About 29.73865 billion yen in total for the 3 companies
カフカ株式会社 received a bankruptcy commencement order from the Nagoya District Court on July 21, posting a net loss and ceasing business with liabilities of about 6.045 billion yen owed to about 110 creditors.
菱秋木材株式会社 (Noshiro) received a bankruptcy commencement order from the Akita District Court on July 14. It ceased business by July 31, 2025, and its liabilities are about 2.98 billion yen.
Amid a shrinking publishing market and rising costs that hurt its performance, 株式会社文學の森 halted operations by May 1 and began preparing to file for bankruptcy. Its liabilities are approx. 200 million yen.
Showa Holdings, listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange Standard market, received a preservation administration order from the Tokyo District Court following a corporate reorganization petition filed by ジェイトラスト・アジア・プライベート・リミテッド.
Facts
Capital of 5,651,394,423 yen
As of July 17
Annual sales of approx. 8.558 billion yen
Non-consolidated: approx. 387 million yen
Liabilities of approx. 2,244,075,000 yen as of the end of the fiscal year ended March 2026
アエラホーム株式会社 filed for civil rehabilitation with the Tokyo District Court on July 16. Its liabilities are approx. 6.16 billion yen. ロゴスホールディングス, listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange Growth market, will serve as sponsor and seek business revival through an absorption-type split into its subsidiary LHD-1.
東日本流通株式会社 filed for civil rehabilitation with the Chiba District Court on July 9 and received a decision to commence rehabilitation proceedings on the 13th. Its liabilities are estimated at approx. 4 billion yen.
株式会社MAKE VALUE filed for civil rehabilitation with the Tokyo District Court on July 13 and is seeking to rebuild with liabilities of approx. 4,823,380,000 yen.
Following a fraudulent contract case and worsening performance, 株式会社全東信 filed for quasi-self bankruptcy with the Osaka District Court on July 6 and received a bankruptcy commencement decision. Its liabilities are approx. 125.929 billion yen.
Countdown to the 2026 Taipei mayoral race! How can Chiang Wan-an win? Scholar names 3 key figures
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Chinese Culture University professor Niu Tse-hsun analyzed the 2026 Taipei mayoral race and recommended that incumbent-seeking Chiang Wan-an seek support from Ko Wen-je, Wang Wei-chung and Jensen Huang to counter Puma Shen’s campaign momentum.
Facts
Niu Tse-hsun published an analysis on Facebook on the 8th, saying Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an, who is seeking reelection, should seek support from 三 key figures in the later stages of the campaign.
DPP candidate Puma Shen recently visited former Taipei City Council Speaker Chen Chien-chih and joined Sports Minister Lee Yang in a campaign motorcade street-sweeping event.
Puma Shen recently appeared on Wang Wei-chung’s program, which has surpassed 3 million views.
Puma Shen draws a “Death” card for his election fortune! His reaction revealed; prediction for the Taiwan stock market at year-end
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This report covers Puma Shen’s fortune reading for the nine-in-one election, which was interpreted as the “Death” card, and reveals his reaction. It also mentions a prediction for the Taiwan stock market’s year-end performance.
Li Chien-lung says “ocean current” took hold too early and has ebbed! Puma Shen says, “As expected, the older ginger is spicier”: It did happen earlier than expected
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
KMT Vice Chairman Li Chien-lung said the “ocean current” effect sparked by DPP candidate Puma Shen ebbed after taking hold too early, easing the KMT’s crisis. Shen praised Li’s accurate judgment and stressed the importance of mobilizing voters through election day.
Facts
KMT Vice Chairman and Secretary-General Li Chien-lung said the “ocean current” took hold too early and has ebbed, and that the KMT’s crisis had passed.
Puma Shen attended the establishment meeting of an academic support group and responded to Li Chien-lung’s remarks.
Puma Shen said he had predicted about 兩 months ago that the ocean current would emerge earlier than expected.
Puma Shen stressed the importance of sustaining momentum and mobilizing supporters to vote from now until election day.
Puma Shen thanked Li Chien-lung for the pointer and praised his skill.
Taiwan Will Association Chairman and lawyer Liu Wei-te warns that when an elderly person is bedridden after a stroke, a will typed by a child and bearing the person’s fingerprint is often invalid because it fails to meet legal formalities. The article explains signature and fingerprint requirements for 五 types of wills and cites a 2026 ruling emphasizing witnesses’ substantive participation. It urges people to make wills early or use notarization to protect their rights.
Facts
When an elderly person has a stroke and cannot write, a will typed by their child and bearing their fingerprint is legally invalid because it does not meet the requirement that a holographic will be written out in full by the testator.
When illness or paralysis genuinely prevents a testator from signing a notarized will, a fingerprint may be used instead, but the notary must record the specific reason the person cannot sign.
A will dictated to another person requires at least 三 witnesses. Heirs, their spouses and lineal blood relatives may not serve as witnesses.
According to a ruling issued by the Taiwan High Court on April 8, 2026, a will may be declared invalid if witnesses did not genuinely understand what the testator said at the time and merely signed as a formality.
The procedure for a sealed will requires the testator to sign personally; a fingerprint cannot be used as a substitute.
Hsieh Tien-lin forms campaign headquarters while “in detention”! His mother, Cheng Ju-fen, weeps: “Use your votes to bring my husband and son back”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Changhua County Council Speaker Hsieh Tien-lin was detained over alleged violations of the Election and Recall Act, but his campaign team held an inauguration ceremony for its headquarters on the 8th. KMT Chairperson Cheng Li-wun and Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu attended to show their support. Hsieh’s mother, Cheng Ju-fen, urged voters to use their ballots to save them, while Cheng Li-wun criticized what she called excessive detentions by investigators and prosecutors and called for judicial reform.
Facts
Changhua County Council Speaker Hsieh Tien-lin has been detained on suspicion of violating the Election and Recall Act.
Hsieh Tien-lin’s campaign team held a campaign headquarters inauguration rally on the 8th.
KMT Chair Cheng Li-wun and Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu attended to show their support for Hsieh Tien-lin.
Cheng Li-wun said detentions in Taiwan over the past two years have been excessive, with people being held for as long as two months at a time.
Cheng Ju-fen choked back tears as she pleaded with voters to use their ballots to bring her husband and son home.
The Huang Jen-hsun spy-suspect controversy explained! Foreign media: Huang Le was recruited by China’s Ministry of State Security; US intelligence says the 2 had a romantic relationship
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang has been caught up in a Chinese spy scandal. Foreign media report that he had a romantic relationship with Huang Le, a former Megaspeed executive recruited by China’s Ministry of State Security. 3 US House committees have asked Huang to give a closed-door briefing on November 18, while Beijing denies the allegations.
Facts
Megaspeed is seen as a channel for circumventing export controls. From June 2024 to February 2026, its affiliated companies purchased at least US$4.8 billion worth of equipment containing Nvidia chips.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said the reports were baseless and purely an attempt to smear China.
The Executive Yuan announced an extension of domestic travel subsidies through the end of 2026. The eligibility period for weekday lodging subsidies and theme park overnight-stay activities has been extended to stimulate domestic tourism spending.
Facts
The Executive Yuan announced that weekday lodging subsidies and theme park overnight-stay activities will be extended through December 31, 2026.
For stays of 2 consecutive nights in general areas, the maximum discount is NT$2,000; in outlying islands, it is NT$2,500.
Birthday vouchers will be awarded by lottery, with each winner receiving NT$1,200 in lodging credit.
Weekdays eligible for the lodging subsidy are Sunday through Thursday, excluding national holidays and consecutive holiday periods.
The outlying-island subsidy covers Kinmen County, Lienchiang County, Penghu County, Liouciou Township in Pingtung County, and Green Island and Orchid Island in Taitung County.
Writer called out after claiming garbage truck broadcast said “Support Chiang Wan-an”! Wang Hung-wei slams claim, saying “the ocean current can’t be held back”: “It feels like we’re back in the great recall era”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Wang Hung-wei strongly criticized a writer’s claim that a garbage truck broadcast expressed support for Chiang Wan-an, accusing the writer of being unable to hold back the “ocean current” and saying the situation feels as if it has returned to the great recall era.
The National Highway 6 eastward extension must not become a war of words! Cho Jung-tai’s “mountains that protect the nation” remark sparks debate; Chiang Chi-chen urges feasibility assessment based on scientific data
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Regarding Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu’s proposal for a 28-kilometer eastward extension of National Highway 6, Premier Cho Jung-tai strongly objected. KMT candidate Chiang Chi-chen called on the government to provide scientific data for a feasibility assessment addressing geological and environmental risks.
Facts
Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu proposed a plan to build a roughly 28-kilometer road through the Central Mountain Range.
Premier Cho Jung-tai opposed the proposal, concerned it could damage the mountains that protect the nation.
Chiang Chi-chen urged the government to provide scientific data to assess feasibility.
The Freeway Bureau began route surveys and geological research in December 2023.
Expert consultations warned of major challenges involving engineering, environmental impacts, and disaster prevention and response.
Google announces end of “1 handy feature”! Discontinuation begins 11/17; important data could disappear—backup and alternatives revealed
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Google announced it will discontinue Gemini’s custom AI assistant feature, “Gems,” replacing it with “Skills.” Starting in November 2026, Gems on personal accounts will become read-only before being removed in December; Workspace accounts will follow in 2027. Due to file size and format limits, users will need to back up their data themselves.
Facts
Google announced it will gradually phase out Gemini’s custom AI assistant feature, Gems, and replace it with the new “Skills” feature.
Starting November 17, 2026, existing Gems on personal Google accounts held by users aged 18 or older will automatically be converted to Skills and become read-only.
Each Skill has a file size limit of 100MB. If the files in an existing Gem exceed the limit, the system will remove the largest files first.
The “1 genius layout” in 40-year-old apartments is almost gone! Experts reveal the real reason; longtime residents say: even with money, you can’t necessarily buy one now
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article examines how the “Cathay layout,” once popular in Taiwan’s older apartments, has all but disappeared from new developments due to regulatory restrictions and a trend toward planning more units per floor. Experts say requirements for fire escapes and smoke-control rooms have squeezed available space, and advise buyers looking at homes built before 2011 to watch for illegal secondary construction.
Facts
The “Cathay layout” is commonly found in apartments, mid-rise residential buildings, and early high-rises that are around 30 to 40 years old or older.
According to ETtoday房產雲, buildings with 8 floors or more applying for new construction permits must have at least 2 direct-access emergency stairwells.
Buildings with 11 floors or more have design requirements such as smoke-control rooms; the vestibules for emergency elevators and smoke-control areas also take up floor space.
《住展雜誌》 spokesperson Chen Bing-chen has analyzed how regulations and the public-area ratio are important factors affecting residential layouts.
New developments in recent years commonly have 6 to 10 units per floor, with space for elevators, elevator lobbies, and common facilities all needing to be planned.
Rare major quake in central Japan in nearly 30 years! At least 19 injured in Aichi and Shizuoka; meteorological agency warns to “prepare for aftershocks over the next week”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
A magnitude 5.7 earthquake struck central Japan on November 8, injuring at least 19 people in Aichi and Shizuoka prefectures. The Japan Meteorological Agency warned people to prepare for aftershocks over the next week and ruled out the possibility that the quake would trigger a major Nankai Trough earthquake.
Facts
A magnitude 5.7 earthquake struck central Japan at around 1 hour and 4 minutes after midnight on November 8. Its epicenter was in western Shizuoka Prefecture, at a depth of 41 kilometers.
Chita City in Aichi Prefecture recorded a rare seismic intensity of 5 Upper, the first such observation since March 1997.
At least 19 people were injured in Aichi and Shizuoka prefectures, and none of the injuries were life-threatening.
The Japan Meteorological Agency warned that areas hit by strong shaking should be on alert for earthquakes of up to seismic intensity 5 Upper for about 1 week.
The agency determined that this earthquake would not trigger a major Nankai Trough earthquake because the seismic mechanisms differ.
Large sections of display-window glass shattered at a car dealership in Toyohashi, Aichi Prefecture.
Western Shizuoka Prefecture recorded seismic intensity 5 Upper or stronger for the first time since records began in 1919.
Next week’s key events》Taiwan Railways’ new “ticket booking rules” take effect from 11/10／The season’s most noticeable cold air arrives; “this day” will be coldest, dipping to 15 degrees／Chiang Wan-an and Shen Po-yang to appear together again at the 11/14 policy forum
Taiwan’s “1 famous attraction” gets a major upgrade! A beautiful, idyllic escape with plenty to see and do and convenient transport—well worth a family visit
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Kaohsiung City Government’s Water Resources Bureau spent NT$41 million to build a lakeside trail around the outer pond of Guanyin Lake. Once connected to the existing trail, the route will total 3.4 kilometers. The project is expected to be completed on November 15, 2026, enhancing the area’s ecological and recreational value.
Facts
Kaohsiung City Government’s Water Resources Bureau invested about NT$41 million in a lakeside trail around the outer pond of Guanyin Lake.
The new outer-pond trail is about 1.6 kilometers long; connected to the existing inner-pond trail, the total route will be about 3.4 kilometers.
The Guanyin Lake outer-pond trail project is expected to be completed on November 15, 2026.
Guanyin Lake covers an area of about 30 hectares.
The Guanyin Lake outer-pond trail is lined with 5 tree species, including Chinese ash, yellow lotus, Chinaberry, royal poinciana, and rain tree.
Latest weather: Cold air sweeps in tonight! Temperatures plunge 10 degrees at once, felt across Taiwan; coldest period revealed
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Central Weather Administration issued a forecast saying temperatures across Taiwan will drop significantly early Tuesday as the northeast monsoon strengthens, with northern Taiwan seeing a decline of up to 10 degrees. It also warned of rain in the north and east over the next two days and urged people to watch for long-period swells brought by Typhoon Champaca.
Facts
Lows in northern Taiwan early Tuesday are expected to fall to 17 to 18 degrees, and to 15 to 16 degrees in open areas.
Temperatures in northern Taiwan will drop by up to 10 degrees, from a high of 28 degrees today to 21 to 22 degrees tomorrow.
Typhoon Champaca could strengthen into a moderate typhoon today or tomorrow.
Rain is expected throughout the day in northern and eastern Taiwan from tomorrow through Wednesday, with localized heavy rain possible in greater Taipei and Yilan.
The northeast monsoon will weaken on Thursday, bringing highs of 27 to 32 degrees across Taiwan.
After a crushing midterm election defeat, Trump makes hawkish personnel moves: hard-liner Miller to become chief of staff, UFC president invited to serve as White House press secretary
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
After losing the midterm elections, Trump appointed hard-liner Stephen Miller as his new chief of staff and invited UFC president Dana White to serve as press secretary, signaling a new approach to confronting the Democrats.
Facts
U.S. President Donald Trump announced that aide Stephen Miller will replace the resigning Susie Wiles as White House chief of staff.
Trump publicly invited UFC president Dana White on social media to serve as White House press secretary.
The Democrats won control of both the House and Senate in the midterm elections.
Vowing to sing in Taiwan! Japanese “emotional songstress” SERRA releases her debut mini-album and reveals the feelings behind her mysterious image
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Japanese singer-songwriter SERRA spoke in Tokyo about her debut mini-album, “X:CEED,” and the journey behind its creation. She also thanked her fans in Taiwan and said she hopes to perform there.
Japan’s largest premium seafood buffet opens in Ginza! A look inside Ginza Shikai, where diners can enjoy unlimited king crab and wagyu; expansion plans revealed
Japan’s largest premium seafood buffet, Ginza Shikai, has opened in Ginza 1-chome, Tokyo, occupying about 1,100 square meters.
Original銀座四海由榮盛株式會社營運，該集團在東京都內坐擁27家門市。
Ginza Shikai charges 13,200 yen per person for an all-you-can-eat selection of more than 200 dishes.
Ginza Shikai serves premium king crab, priced at at least 30,000 yen per kilogram, and A5-grade Japanese Black wagyu.
Ginza Shikai is just a 10-minute drive from Toyosu Market, Japan’s largest fish market. The seafood is caught around midnight and delivered by dedicated vehicle.
Every Friday evening, Ginza Shikai holds a live tuna-cutting show featuring southern bluefin tuna weighing more than 60 kilograms.
Ginza Shikai has received a strong response from the market in the about 三 months since it officially opened in August.
The Eisei Group already has 3 restaurants in Osaka that serve as a base for staff and supplies.
Taipei City Councilor Yu Shu-hui of the Kuomintang questioned whether the team of Democratic Progressive Party Taipei mayoral candidate Shen Po-yang illegally used a drone to take aerial footage during a rally at Dahu Park, which lies within the no-fly zone for Songshan Airport. Yu said she checked Civil Aeronautics Administration maps and confirmed the area is a no-fly zone. She raised 四 questions, demanding that Shen’s team explain the source of the footage and provide flight authorization. She stressed that campaign activities must comply with the law and set an example, and that electioneering is no excuse for violating aviation safety rules.
Facts
Yu Shu-hui, a Kuomintang councilor representing Taipei’s Ganghu district, posted on Facebook on the 8th, raising 四 questions about aerial footage from a rally by the team of Democratic Progressive Party Taipei mayoral candidate Shen Po-yang at Dahu Park.
After checking the Civil Aeronautics Administration’s map of drone activity zones, Yu Shu-hui found that almost all of Neihu is a drone no-fly zone.
The law strictly restricts nighttime drone flights and operations over crowds or outdoor assemblies and marches, unless operators meet the qualifications and obtain prior approval from the relevant authority.
Shen Po-yang went canvassing by car in Nangang and Neihu yesterday (the 7th). He arrived at Dahu Park at 7:48 p.m. to deliver a talk on city policy, drawing a crowd that packed the site.
國研院 x 國資圖 launch science exhibition: A chip's journey from birth—entering the semiconductor magic academy
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 國家實驗研究院
Taiwan Semiconductor Research Institute of 國研院 and 國立公共資訊圖書館 are collaborating to present the science exhibition “A chip's journey from birth: Entering the semiconductor magic academy” at the main library of 國資圖 starting November 3, 2026. The exhibition introduces the chip manufacturing process through cleanroom suit experiences and illustrated explanations.
Call for financial institutions to submit proposals for fund management and financial planning
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 國家實驗研究院
財團法人國家實驗研究院 is inviting financial institutions to submit proposals for fund management and financial planning, for reference in future fund management.
National Institutes of Applied Research Teams Up with 汎銓科技 to Overcome Post-Structure Analysis Bottleneck in Next-Generation EUV Process, Helping Taiwanese Firms Break into the Supply Chains of Major International Semiconductor Companies
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 國家實驗研究院
國研院國儀中心 and 汎銓科技 have cooperated to successfully develop an atomic layer deposition coating technology with an operating temperature below 100℃, solving the problem of wafer structure analysis after High-NA EUV processes. This result helped 汎銓科技 break into the supply chains of the world's top 3 semiconductor equipment makers and manufacturers, and it was cited and published by the international leader 艾司摩爾（ASML）.