Taiwanese Hokkien Singer Hong Diqi Passes Away at 99, Known for 'Farewell Platform Ticket'

Central News Agency Report

(CNA reporter Cheng Wei-chen, Changhua, 17th) Hong Diqi, the Hokkien-language singer renowned for 'Farewell Platform Ticket,' passed away on the 11th at the age of 99. Today, Tsai Shih-chieh, mayor of Erlin Township, Changhua County, stated that although Hong lived a reclusive life in his later years, his numerous classic songs have long been etched into people's hearts.

Tsai Shih-chieh told CNA that Hong Diqi passed away peacefully on the 11th, and he has already offered condolences to the family. Due to Hong's low-profile nature, it was initially believed he had moved elsewhere after retirement, but it was later discovered he had remained in his hometown, merely avoiding public appearances. His many beloved classic songs continue to be sung to this day, accompanying countless people through life's journey.

Born in 1928, Hong Diqi's original name was Hong Di-qi, the seventh child in his family, hailing from Erlin Township, Changhua County, Taiwan.

According to the Taiwan Popular Music Database, Hong came from a wealthy family and studied in Japan starting in fifth grade. After World War II, he returned to Taiwan for high school, and after graduation, joined the Erlin Township Office as a civil servant. During this time, he participated in numerous singing competitions, consistently achieving top results, gradually gaining recognition.

Recommended by broadcasting industry veterans, Hong joined Asia Records—the largest record company at the time—and released his solo album 'Farewell Public Telephone.' He subsequently released iconic works such as 'Farewell Platform Ticket' and 'Nostalgic Announcer,' later being recruited by film studios to act in Hokkien-language films and sing theme songs for movies and TV dramas. After retiring from the township office in 1988, he occasionally appeared on television programs or served as a radio host. (Editor: Chen Ching-fang) 1150617