Hualien Tzu Chi Doctor Misused: Dermatologist Hong Song-ren's Image Falsely Altered to Sell Body Odor Medicine

Central News Agency Report

(CNA reporter Li Hsien-feng, Hualien County, June 17) A recent online video advertisement for body odor treatment features a dermatologist from Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital introducing methods to improve body odor and promoting a product. However, Tzu Chi Hospital clarified that both the video and audio have been completely altered, calling it a fake advertisement and urging the public to verify information and report such cases.

Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital stated today that it has never endorsed any products. In recent years, numerous instances have occurred online and on social media where images and videos of renowned physicians from various departments within the hospital have been stolen and used for fraud. This includes previous cases involving Hospital Director Lin Hsin-jung and Deputy Executive Director Kuo Han-chung. This time, Dermatology Department Head Dr. Hong Song-ren has been maliciously altered to serve as a virtual endorser for a body odor medicine.

The hospital issued a strong statement, emphasizing that Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital does not engage in commercial endorsements, and its physicians absolutely do not promote any commercial products. Any endorsements seen on social media or online using Tzu Chi doctors’ names are fraudulent, and the public is urged not to fall victim.

To combat the spread of fraudulent information, the hospital has established an anti-fraud section on its official website. The public is encouraged to verify any suspicious content online. The hospital also calls on citizens to verify and report such scams, inviting everyone to join in safeguarding public trust. If anyone discovers fake advertisements misusing Tzu Chi doctors’ images, they are urged to call the hospital to confirm and report the incident.

Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital stresses that patients must visit the hospital in person for accurate diagnosis and individual assessment. The public should avoid believing in online folk remedies or purchasing unverified medications to protect their health and right to life. (Edited by Li Hsi-chang) 1150617

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