Taiwan has banned Chinese rapper Wang Yitai from entering the island and canceled his planned concert after he referred to Taipei as part of China in promotional materials. The move highlights the island’s sensitivity to language that aligns with Beijing’s claims over Taiwan and the political tension that continues to define cross-strait relations.
The term “Taipei, China” is considered highly offensive in Taiwan, as it supports China’s view that the island is a province under its control. Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council swiftly responded by canceling Wang’s September 14 concert and issuing a ban on his entry. The council reiterated that any cultural exchange with China must be based on “reciprocity and mutual respect.”
Wang hails from Chengdu, a city that has become synonymous with nationalist sentiment in China’s rap scene. His label is known for producing music that amplifies Beijing’s hardline stance on Taiwan. The rap group CD Rev, also based in Chengdu, has attracted attention for its aggressive nationalist lyrics that denigrate Taiwan’s government and promote the “One China” principle.
Despite China’s frequent banning of Taiwanese artists who support the island’s independence, Taiwan has typically remained open to cultural collaboration. However, this incident underscores that Taiwan will not tolerate language that undermines its status. The Mainland Affairs Council made it clear that any attempts to belittle Taiwan’s sovereignty would be met with firm resistance, even in the realm of entertainment.
The incident serves as a reminder that even seemingly innocuous artistic events can become flashpoints in the broader struggle between Taiwan’s democratic identity and Beijing’s authoritarian claims.
