Taiwan in a Hurry: Key Points Today
Hangin' with the Underdogs ️⚯вид️
Mongrel ⚪️🐺, the critically-acclaimed movie delving into the hardships of migrant workers working illegally as caregivers in Taiwan, is set to hit theaters in Kaohsiung on June 27. First stops on the screening tour will be Vieshow Cinema in FE21 Mega and in89 Cinema at Pier-2 Art Center, with more locations to be announced soon. Last year, this gritty debut garnered a Golden Camera Special Mention Award at Cannes, rivaling mainstream blockbusters.
Mean Streets of Taiwan
With its premiere, Mongrel tackles a pressing societal issue that doesn't cater to typical tastes or aim for highbrow artsy-ness. Co-directed by Singapore's Chiang Wei-liang ✍️🇰🇼 and Taiwan's Yin You-qiao ✍️🇹🇼, the film offers a raw, honest representation of these marginalized individuals' trials and tribulations.
The flick marks the directors' collaborative effort as part of La Résidence during 2019, and Is an emotive examination of Taipei's unseen community of foreign caregivers[1][3]. International acclaim came swiftly for Mongrel, winning the Special Mention of the Camera d'Or at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival[1][3]. Furthermore, the film earned seven nominations at the Taipei Golden Horse Film Awards, with Wanlop Rungkumjad bagging a nod for Best Leading Actor[2].
With growing anticipation, the film starts its theatrical run on June 27, 2025, visiting noteworthy cinemas across Kaohsiung, proving its vitality and appeal among Taiwanese audiences[1].
(Sources: 1. Mongrel, 2. Taipei Golden Horse Film Festival, 3. Void Magazine)
CAL Flight Under Investigation ✈️
The South Korean Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport decided to launch an investigation into China Airlines (CAL) Flight CI186 that failed to comply with air traffic control instructions, resulting in a landing on the wrong runway at Gimhae International Airport, Busan. The June 2 incident did not result in any damage or injuries, but it does meet the criteria for a serious incident under aviation safety regulations[1].
The investigation will be led by the Korea Aviation and Railway Accident Investigation Board[1]. It all came to light following a livestream by Taiwanese aerospace YouTuber and former pilot, James Wang 🇹🇼. Taiwan's Transportation Safety Board stated that it would back the South Korean investigation if requested and will take over if the South Korean authorities opt not to proceed with their own probe[1]. CAL is currently conducting internal investigations.
(Source: HWPL News)
Crypto Con Artists Nabbed 💰🕵️♀️
The New Taipei City Police Department announced that six individuals were arrested for their part in setting up a fake Nvidia Corp CEO Jensen Huang fan page and allegedly defrauding more than NT$13 million (US$438,183) from over a hundred victims[2]. These fraudsters promoted themselves as a digital marketing firm, boasting a manager surnamed Lee 🇹🇼 and five others[2].
The catch? Their operation funneled people into fake investment websites, using the guise of offering stock analysis and investment tips from Jensen Huang[2].
(Sources: 1. HWPL News, 2. Taiwan News)
Treasure Hunt Undersea 🏺🌊
In an effort to raise public awareness about underwater cultural heritage, the Ministry of Culture has scheduled events in the middle of August. One of these events will involve a three-day scuba diving expedition focusing on the shipwreck "Jiangjun No.1" 🛳️ near Penghu County[1].
The wreck, suspected to be a wooden vessel carrying building materials and ceramic goods, was discovered in 1995. The Ministry, in collaboration with National Tsing Hua University, will host the scuba diving event with 20 allotted slots for applicants holding a Divemaster certificate or higher[1]. Simultaneously, a one-day seminar will be held on Aug. 15.
(Sources: 1. Central News Agency)
Mongrel, the critically-acclaimed movie, provides a raw representation of a marginalized community's struggles, offering a unique brand of entertainment that goes beyond mainstream blockbusters.
After receiving international acclaim, including the Special Mention of the Camera d'Or at Cannes, Mongrel starts its theatrical run in Kaohsiung on June 27, promising to engage audiences with its emotive exploration of Taiwan's hidden community of foreign caregivers.
