Zhang Linghe Free to Move in Taiwan? Li Yuan: Government Won't Restrict Speech
Culture Minister Li Yuan assured that popular Chinese actor Zhang Linghe would enjoy freedom in Taiwan, emphasizing that the government does not suppress speech, while addressing the challenges of the Chinese film market.
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- 📰 Published: April 28, 2026 at 17:51
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The popular Chinese historical drama 'Zhu Yu' (逐玉) has recently gone viral. When asked by legislators today if the lead actor, Zhang Linghe, would have freedom of movement if he came to Taiwan, Culture Minister Li Yuan said Zhang would 'fall in love with Taiwan' because he would 'breathe the air of freedom.' He emphasized that the Taiwan government would not restrict speech or suppress Zhang.
During a legislative interpellation, KMT legislator Weng Hsiao-ling pointed out the success of Taiwanese films like 'More Than Blue' and 'The Pig, the Snake and the Pigeon' in mainland China, asking if the minister supports screening Taiwanese works there. Li Yuan replied that many Taiwanese filmmakers have already shifted their focus away from the mainland market due to its unpredictable censorship. He stated, 'We don't know which movie will pass and which won't,' and encouraged filmmakers to aim for international markets.
Li Yuan also mentioned that Taiwan currently allows 10 Chinese films per year through a lottery, without content censorship. Winners of 'Best Film' or 'Best Director' at the Golden Horse Awards are also exempt. When Weng asked if the quota should be removed, Li suggested that China should first stop its censorship to ensure fairness between both sides.
Regarding Zhang Linghe's potential visit, Li Yuan questioned why people were so focused on him, noting that the Taiwanese series 'The Oracle' has higher ratings than 'Zhu Yu.' He concluded by saying that Zhang Linghe's visit was a 'hypothetical issue' and reiterated Taiwan's commitment to free speech.
During a legislative interpellation, KMT legislator Weng Hsiao-ling pointed out the success of Taiwanese films like 'More Than Blue' and 'The Pig, the Snake and the Pigeon' in mainland China, asking if the minister supports screening Taiwanese works there. Li Yuan replied that many Taiwanese filmmakers have already shifted their focus away from the mainland market due to its unpredictable censorship. He stated, 'We don't know which movie will pass and which won't,' and encouraged filmmakers to aim for international markets.
Li Yuan also mentioned that Taiwan currently allows 10 Chinese films per year through a lottery, without content censorship. Winners of 'Best Film' or 'Best Director' at the Golden Horse Awards are also exempt. When Weng asked if the quota should be removed, Li suggested that China should first stop its censorship to ensure fairness between both sides.
Regarding Zhang Linghe's potential visit, Li Yuan questioned why people were so focused on him, noting that the Taiwanese series 'The Oracle' has higher ratings than 'Zhu Yu.' He concluded by saying that Zhang Linghe's visit was a 'hypothetical issue' and reiterated Taiwan's commitment to free speech.