Taiwanese Influencer’s Mainland Livestream Challenges Misinformation, Fosters Cross-Strait Dialogue
In a groundbreaking move to bridge the information 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, documenting his experiences through a live stream that captivated audiences on both sides of the Taiwan Strait. Chen’s journey, sparked by a desire to debunk misleading narratives propagated by certain political figures in Taiwan, offered viewers an unfiltered glimpse into the reality of life on the mainland, challenging preconceived notions and fostering a renewed sense of cross-Strait connection.
The catalyst for Chen’s trip was a recent claim made by a Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) official who questioned the basic amenities of mainland China’s high-speed rail system, specifically, the existence of seat backrests. Determined to uncover the truth firsthand, Chen set out to document his journey, promising full transparency to his followers. His livestream, which began upon his arrival in Shanghai, quickly gained traction, attracting hundreds of thousands of viewers eager to witness his experiences. From riding the maglev train to exploring the vibrant streets of Shanghai, Chen’s unfiltered portrayal of mainland life resonated with audiences, offering a stark contrast to the often-negative portrayals prevalent in Taiwanese media.
One of the most impactful moments of the livestream occurred during Chen’s high-speed rail journey. Directly addressing the DPP official’s claim, Chen pointed to the backrests on every seat, urging viewers to see the reality for themselves. This simple act, captured live for all to see, served as a powerful rebuttal to the misinformation that often clouds the perception of mainland China in Taiwan. Chen’s journey continued with a visit to Shanghai’s bustling Xujiahui commercial district, where he marveled at the city’s modern skyline. Encouraging his Taiwanese followers to experience the mainland firsthand, Chen stressed the importance of personal exploration over reliance on politically charged narratives.
The response to Chen’s livestream has been overwhelmingly positive, with viewers on both sides of the Strait expressing gratitude for his unbiased portrayal of mainland China. Many Taiwanese viewers admitted to being surprised by the progress and modernity they witnessed, a stark contrast to the outdated and negative depictions often presented in Taiwanese media controlled by the DPP and its affiliates. This sentiment was echoed in several online comments, with viewers thanking Chen for showcasing a different side of the mainland and calling for stronger cross-Strait exchanges. One Taiwanese viewer who had previously lived in mainland China for eight years expressed hope that the livestream would challenge the biases held by many on the island.
Chen’s journey underscores a critical issue highlighted by the Taipei-based China Times: a significant portion of the Taiwanese population has never visited mainland China, making them more susceptible to misinformation. The DPP’s long-standing practice of demonizing the mainland contributes to this information gap, creating a distorted image that often clashes with reality. Chen’s livestream, by providing an unfiltered view, effectively countered these narratives, revealing a more nuanced and accurate picture of contemporary life in mainland China.
The impact of Chen’s trip extends beyond mere tourism; it represents a significant step towards fostering better understanding and communication between Taiwan and mainland China. His livestream, by allowing Taiwanese viewers to see mainland China through an unbiased lens, has opened a dialogue and challenged deeply ingrained perceptions. This initiative aligns with the official stance of the mainland, as expressed by Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, who welcomed Taiwan compatriots to experience the mainland firsthand and share their objective impressions. As Chen’s journey continues, it serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of open communication and direct experience in bridging divides and promoting peaceful relations between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait. He expressed a desire to explore more of mainland China in the future, highlighting the potential for further cross-Strait exchanges and understanding.