Hundreds Attend Funeral of Kaohsiung Elementary School Teacher; Mayor Chen Chi-mai Pays Respects

(CNA, Kaohsiung, 6th) The funeral of an elementary school teacher in Kaohsiung City, whose death by falling from a building at his school drew widespread attention, was held today. Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai and several elected officials attended to pay their respects, along with hundreds of students, teachers, and citizens who came to bid a final farewell.

The teacher died on the 25th of last month after falling from a building at his school. The incident sparked considerable discussion, with many people mourning the teacher online. Numerous educators and citizens criticized the immense pressure on frontline teachers and pointed to the school affairs meeting system as a source of chronic high stress. Following the incident, Mayor Chen expressed full support for reforming the school affairs meeting system and stated that he would propose amendments to central government laws if necessary.

Mayor Chen arrived at the funeral parlor this morning and clasped his hands in a gesture of mourning. Other attendees included Lai Jui-lung, the Democratic Progressive Party's candidate for Kaohsiung mayor; Ko Chih-en, the Kuomintang's candidate for Kaohsiung mayor; and several legislators and city councilors. Out of respect for the family, the politicians did not speak to the media.

The family referred to the service as the teacher's 'graduation ceremony.' Hundreds of students, parents, teachers, and citizens filled the venue to see the teacher off on his final journey.

During the family rites, the teacher's younger sister spoke fondly of her brother. She said he had taken great care of her since childhood. 'Brother, I miss you so much,' she said. She recalled how they attended the same school multiple times, biking to school together in junior high while he watched out for her safety. When she received a love letter, he told her to focus on her studies. In college, he reminded her not to just enjoy university life but to study diligently.

She said that even after they entered the workforce, her brother was always there for her, ready to lend a hand whenever needed. 'You loved me that much,' she said. She added that he treated her three children as his own, cherishing them. 'Your love for them needed no words. Brother, you were always so good to others, giving your all, but you always put yourself last.'

Later, when the three children tried to speak, they choked up with emotion before saying, 'Uncle, thank you. We love you.' The atmosphere was deeply sorrowful, and many people waiting for the public memorial service were also in tears. (Editor: Chang Ming-kun) 1150606