India Breaking News reported, Following Taiwanese taekwondo player Lee Dong-hyun’s controversial act of raising the Chinese flag after securing a bronze medal at the Asia-Pacific Masters Games (APMG) in South Korea last week, the Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) urged the public to refrain from sparking disputes by mimicking the CCP’s “United Front” propaganda tactics.

India Breaking News : Taiwan Taekwondo wins bronze medal at Asia Pacific Masters Games in South Korea

The committee emphasized the importance of cherishing democratic values and lifestyle, urging Taiwanese individuals to resist becoming pawns in China’s efforts against Taiwan’s sovereignty. Despite engaging in activities in China, Taiwanese individuals should refrain from aligning with the Chinese government’s agenda or becoming part of China’s “United Front” initiative.

The Sports Administration clarified that APMG allows participation from athletes not affiliated with national teams or sports associations, with no formal flag-raising ceremony for such athletes. Lee Dong-hyun competed as an independent athlete, not representing the national team or the Chinese Taipei Taekwondo Association.

Taiwan Taekwondo wins bronze medal

Although Lee wore a uniform with the Taiwanese national team logo, the Chinese Taipei Olympic Committee, which holds the logo copyright, reportedly did not restrict its usage. Lee, who has been residing in China and joined the Communist Party of China, previously raised the Chinese flag after winning a taekwondo competition in Malaysia in 2017.

Peng Tailin, chairman of the Taiwan Masters Sports Association, clarified that all APMG athletes compete individually, disassociating the association from Lee’s actions.

In response, DPP legislator Wang Dingyuan urged an investigation into whether Lee received government subsidies for sports events, arguing against funding athletes who align with China’s political ideologies.

While some praised Lee’s act of raising the Chinese flag, others condemned it as a betrayal of Taiwanese identity. Tainan City Councilor Li Zonglin suggested that Lee’s actions were part of China’s deliberate efforts to challenge Taiwan’s sovereignty.

Lee’s public support for China and his actions have drawn criticism from Taiwan’s pro-independence supporters. However, Lee remains steadfast in his beliefs and continues to advocate for cross-strait relations.

Asia Pacific Masters Games in South Korea

The incident sparked discussions in both Taiwanese and Chinese media, with calls for legal actions against Lee from Taiwanese authorities. Conversely, Chinese netizens rallied behind Lee, viewing him as a symbol of Chinese unity.

The timing of China’s internal publicity regarding Lee’s actions coincided with heightened tensions over the Taiwan issue following pressure from the Group of Seven (G7) countries.