🎤 Lyric Change Sparks Outrage
During the closing ceremony of the 2025 World Masters Games on May 30, a performance of the Taiwanese hip-hop song “All Eyes on Me” by Nine One One featured a significant alteration. The original lyric “I’m from Taiwan” was muted and replaced on-screen with “阮作伙來欸,” translating to “We are here together.” This change has ignited widespread criticism across Taiwan.
Taipei City Councilor Chien Shu-pei condemned the modification as a “huge sign of disrespect” to the song’s creators and Taiwan’s identity. Her sentiments were echoed by numerous netizens, with some labeling the act as “shameful.”
🏛️ Official Responses and Justifications
New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih acknowledged the inclusion of Taiwanese culture in the performances but did not directly address the lyric change. Subsequently, the New Taipei City government stated that the alteration aimed to resonate with the international audience and align with the event’s theme of unity. The Cultural Affairs Department further explained that the new lyric was intended to reflect the Games’ spirit of inclusivity.
🌐 Broader Implications and Public Sentiment
The incident has sparked a broader conversation about Taiwan’s representation on the global stage. Critics argue that such alterations undermine Taiwan’s cultural identity and set a concerning precedent for future international events hosted in the country.
This controversy follows earlier issues during the Games, including English translation errors on signage and staff badges, which led to public apologies from Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an.
❓ FAQs
What was the original lyric, and how was it changed?
The original lyric “I’m from Taiwan” was muted and replaced with “阮作伙來欸,” meaning “We are here together.”
Why was the lyric changed?
Officials stated the change was to resonate with an international audience and promote unity.
How has the public reacted?
There has been significant backlash, with many viewing the change as disrespectful to Taiwan’s identity.
Have there been other controversies during the Games?
Yes, including translation errors on signage and staff badges, leading to public apologies from officials.
