Taiwanese Internet Celebrity Sparks Controversy with Mainland China Visit

Chen has been vocal in condemning what he calls "Taiwan independence toxins" and has sparked controversy with his comments on the differences between cities on either side of the strait. Despite the controversy surrounding his trip, Chen has stated that he is not afraid of criticism from Taiwan's media or the public. In a recent interview with Phoenix Television, Chen emphasized the vast differences in city size and infrastructure between Shanghai and Taipei, stating that the gap is too large to compare the two cities. He also expressed his hope for a "double city forum" between Shanghai and Taipei to promote cross-strait exchange.

The discussions sparked by Chen have revealed a spectrum of opinions, with mainland Chinese netizens often focusing on the advancements in Shanghai's infrastructure as a symbol of China's growth. In contrast, Taiwanese reactions are multifaceted, with some expressing a desire for similar development in Taiwan and others arguing that the island's distinct cultural identity and historical context should be valued over purely infrastructural comparisons. Chen's comments on the price of Tesla vehicles in Taipei and Shanghai have also drawn attention, with some netizens criticizing him for being a "wallhead grass" - a colloquialism for someone who blows with the wind, supporting whichever party is in power.

Chen's interactions with Wang Xiaofei, including a dinner invitation to try Sichuan cuisine, have been widely followed online, with over 400,000 people watching the live stream. The event has been seen as a successful promotion of Chinese cuisine and culture, with some praising Wang Xiaofei's efforts to showcase the country's hospitality. However, others have questioned Chen's credibility and motives, accusing him of seeking to gain traction and attention on the mainland. The controversy surrounding Chen's visit and comments touches on broader issues of cultural exchange, political sensitivities, and the complex nature of cross-strait relations, highlighting how individual opinions can spark widespread discussion and debate.

The significant online engagement indicates a strong interest in the subject matter from both sides, with many netizens weighing in on the comparison between Taiwan and mainland China. Some have criticized Chen for not openly stating that Taiwan is part of the People's Republic of China, seeing this as a litmus test for his true loyalties. Others have praised Chen's efforts to promote cross-strait exchange and understanding, arguing that his comments and actions have helped to break down barriers and challenge prevailing narratives. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how Chen's comments and actions will impact the ongoing discussion about Taiwan and mainland China's relationship.