TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Holger Chen (陳之漢), a popular Taiwanese fitness influencer and social commentator, returned to Taiwan on Sunday (June 15) after completing a controversial six-day trip to China. Speaking to reporters at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (桃園國際機場), Chen declared his intention to oppose ongoing mass recall efforts (大罷免), while accusing the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP, 民主進步黨), Taiwan's ruling party, of "deceiving the people with lies" and attempting to undermine Taiwan.
A crowd of enthusiastic supporters welcomed Chen at the airport, presenting him with flowers and gifts as he arrived. During an impromptu media interview amid the gathering, Chen emphasized that his immediate priority would be to "stop the stupid mass recall before his next trip to China." He passionately urged Taiwanese citizens to visit China and form their own opinions, claiming that "the DPP is a liar" about conditions across the Taiwan Strait.
Chen firmly denied receiving any special treatment or hospitality from Chinese authorities during his visit, pointing out that he had live-streamed the entire journey as evidence of transparency. He accused the DPP of deliberately spreading misinformation about China and emphasized that people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait are "the most beautiful scenery." When questioned about potential political backlash from the DPP or its supporters, Chen appeared unfazed, stating, "It is my honor to be attacked by them, and I don't care." He concluded by pledging to actively participate in anti-recall activities whenever necessary. ◼