Taiwan’s cultural and entertainment industries are reeling from a growing military service evasion scandal, as at least eight entertainers were summoned for questioning by prosecutors in New Taipei City on May 8, 2025. The investigation, which stems from a fraudulent scheme to forge medical records, allegedly enabled dozens of men—including well-known celebrities—to avoid Taiwan’s mandatory military service.
Among those questioned were popular actors, singers, and internet personalities. Two—Daniel Chen (陳昊森) and Jushe Lee (李秉潔)—were released on bail, intensifying media and public scrutiny. The scandal has triggered national debates about celebrity privilege, the fairness of Taiwan’s draft system, and the integrity of medical institutions.
🔍 Background: Taiwan’s Military Service Requirement
Under the Act of Military Service System, all able-bodied Taiwanese men aged 19 to 36 are required to complete mandatory military service, with duration and format depending on age and circumstances. While some exemptions are allowed for health reasons, these must be verified through official medical documentation and government approval.
The system has long been considered an essential part of Taiwan’s national defense, especially given ongoing threats from China. However, high-profile evasion cases periodically trigger public outrage, especially when celebrities or wealthy individuals are involved.
📌 The Scandal: A Breakdown
🕵️ The Alleged Forgery Scheme
The scheme allegedly orchestrated by a suspect surnamed Chen, a former clinic intermediary, involved fabricating or exaggerating health conditions—primarily mental illnesses like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder—to help young men receive exemptions or postponements from military service.
Investigators revealed:
- Fees ranged from NT$100,000 to NT$1 million (US$3,000–32,000) per case.
- Clients underwent staged consultations with cooperative psychiatrists, who provided medical records suggesting disqualifying mental illnesses.
- At least 120 men are believed to have participated, 11 of whom are entertainers.
- Fake records were then submitted to the Taipei City or Ministry of National Defense for exemption approval.
Original Value: While media reports have focused on celebrity involvement, this scheme hints at systemic weaknesses in Taiwan’s draft exemption process. Critics now question whether routine exemptions for mental health conditions should be subjected to stricter independent audits, as mental health diagnoses are difficult to objectively verify.
🎭 Celebrities Under Investigation
The list of entertainers under scrutiny includes:
- Darren Wang (王大陸) – Previously questioned in relation to the scheme.
- Daniel Chen (陳昊森) – Released on NT$250,000 bail.
- Jushe Lee (李秉潔) – Released on NT$150,000 bail.
- Nine Chen (陳零九), William Liao, Cuzyboii, Xiaohu Wu, and Teddy – Under investigation.
- Daikon (大根) – Currently abroad; scheduled to return for questioning.
- Huang Po-shih (黃柏翔) – Another actor under scrutiny.
Many of these entertainers rose to fame through dramas, music shows, or social media, and have significant fan bases. Some have issued brief statements denying wrongdoing, while others have remained silent.
⚖️ Legal and Ethical Implications
🛑 Possible Charges
- Forgery of Documents
- Fraud
- Obstruction of Official Duties
- Violation of Military Service Act
If convicted, the involved individuals—both the facilitators and clients—may face prison terms or hefty fines, in addition to potential career damage and public backlash.
💔 Impact on Public Trust
This case raises critical questions:
- Are high-profile individuals receiving preferential treatment?
- How easy is it to manipulate Taiwan’s military exemption process?
- Should entertainers with draft controversies be allowed to continue in the public spotlight?
Added Insight: Taiwan is not alone. South Korea has faced similar military evasion scandals involving K-pop stars and athletes. Taiwan may need to introduce transparency reforms, such as independent medical reviews or public exemption registries (with anonymization), to maintain trust in its conscription system.
🇹🇼 Societal Repercussions
Public reactions range from fury to disillusionment. Social media platforms like PTT and Dcard are flooded with users venting anger over perceived double standards. Military service remains a rite of passage for many Taiwanese men—often seen as a symbol of duty and equality. Scandals like this erode public morale, especially among those currently serving or who have served.
🔮 What Happens Next?
- Prosecutors are expected to interrogate more suspects, possibly expanding the scope of the investigation.
- Daikon’s return from overseas will be a key moment in the probe.
- The Ministry of National Defense has hinted at tightening medical evaluation protocols.
- Entertainment agencies may suspend or drop involved artists, pending legal outcomes.
📌 FAQs
Why are Taiwanese male celebrities involved in this scandal?
Some allegedly paid intermediaries to forge mental health records to avoid Taiwan’s mandatory military service.
Is it common to be exempted from service due to mental illness?
It’s legally allowed, but must be backed by verifiable, official medical documentation. This case shows how that system can be abused.
Will the celebrities go to jail?
If found guilty of fraud, forgery, or obstruction of duties, they may face criminal penalties, including jail time.
How many people were involved in the scam?
Authorities estimate about 120 individuals, including 11 entertainers, used forged documents to evade service.
What’s being done to fix the loophole?
Investigators are pressing for stricter medical audits and legal reforms to prevent such abuse of the system in the future.
