Taiwanese Influencer’s Mainland Livestream Challenges Misconceptions, Fosters Cross-Strait Dialogue
In a groundbreaking move to bridge the informational gap between Taiwan and mainland China, Taiwanese internet influencer Chen Chih-han, popularly known as "Guan Zhang" or "gym boss," embarked on a self-funded six-day trip to the mainland, meticulously documenting his experiences through a live stream. Chen’s primary objective was to challenge the often negative and misleading portrayal of the mainland propagated by certain political factions in Taiwan, offering an unfiltered glimpse into the reality on the ground. His journey, which commenced on Tuesday, took him to major cities like Shanghai and Hangzhou, captivating hundreds of thousands of viewers across the Taiwan Strait.
Chen’s decision to embark on this fact-finding mission was triggered by a recent incident involving a Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) official, who publicly questioned the existence of backrests on mainland high-speed rail seats. Determined to debunk such misinformation, Chen declared his intention to "see it for myself, and let the people see it too," promising complete transparency throughout his trip. The livestream, initiated upon his arrival in Shanghai, quickly gained traction, drawing over 270,000 concurrent viewers at its peak. Chen’s documentation of seemingly mundane activities, such as riding the maglev train, checking into his hotel, and exploring the city streets, held a captivating appeal for viewers eager for an authentic portrayal of mainland life.
One of the most impactful moments of the livestream occurred during Chen’s high-speed rail journey. Pointing directly at the seat backrests, he challenged the DPP’s narrative, stating, "Come out and face this." This direct confrontation of the misinformation spread by certain Taiwanese politicians resonated deeply with viewers, highlighting the stark contrast between the rhetoric often employed in Taiwan and the reality on the ground. Chen’s subsequent exploration of Shanghai’s vibrant Xujiahui commercial district further solidified his message, showcasing the city’s impressive skyline and bustling urban landscape. He urged his viewers to experience the mainland firsthand, stating, "Don’t hesitate, come to Shanghai and take a look. Don’t just watch my livestream. Come travel here, see the cars, the buildings, and how people live. If you only listen to what the DPP says, you’ll never know the truth."
The livestream’s comment section became a platform for lively cross-Strait dialogue, with viewers from both sides expressing their gratitude for Chen’s initiative. Many Taiwanese viewers, surprised by the positive portrayal of the mainland, thanked Chen for challenging their preconceived notions. Comments such as, "I hope this livestream can reach people who still hold biases – it’s really not what you think" and "As a young person from Taiwan, I felt really moved watching the livestream, and never imagined cross-Strait interactions could be so friendly," reflected the impact of Chen’s journey in fostering understanding and challenging ingrained narratives. The China Times highlighted the significance of the livestream in light of surveys indicating that over half of Taiwan’s population has never visited the mainland, emphasizing the role of media, often influenced by the DPP, in perpetuating negative stereotypes.
The Chinese government also welcomed Chen’s initiative, with Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, encouraging more Taiwanese individuals to experience the mainland firsthand and share their objective impressions. This official endorsement further underscored the potential of such citizen-led initiatives in promoting cross-Strait understanding and dialogue. Chen’s livestream, which continued with a planned visit to Hangzhou, garnered substantial attention particularly from viewers in Taiwan seeking an unfiltered perspective on the mainland.
Chen’s journey underscores the growing desire among Taiwanese citizens for a more nuanced and authentic portrayal of mainland China. By challenging the dominant narrative often presented in Taiwanese media, he has opened a window for greater cross-Strait understanding and dialogue. His firsthand account, devoid of political rhetoric, has resonated deeply with viewers on both sides of the Strait, highlighting the power of citizen diplomacy in bridging divides and fostering closer ties. Chen’s expressed desire to further explore mainland cities like Shenzhen and Chongqing indicates a growing interest in fostering deeper connections and dispelling misconceptions. His initiative marks a significant step towards building a more informed and nuanced understanding between the two societies, paving the way for stronger cross-Strait relations in the future.