A Chinese rapper has been banned from entering Taiwan after referring to Taipei as part of China in promotional material for his upcoming concert. Wang Yitai was scheduled to perform in Taipei on September 14, but the event was abruptly canceled by Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council. The council took issue with Wang’s use of the term “Taipei, China,” which aligns with Beijing’s claim that Taiwan is part of its territory.
Taiwan views such language as a direct affront to its sovereignty, especially in light of China’s ongoing efforts to isolate the island on the international stage. The cancellation and ban underscore Taiwan’s determination to resist any rhetoric that challenges its status as a separate and self-governing entity. The move also highlights the delicate balance between cultural exchange and political tensions in cross-strait relations.
Wang’s label, based in Chengdu, has produced numerous nationalist songs that echo Beijing’s hardline stance on Taiwan. These include tracks by the rap group CD Rev, which gained notoriety for promoting Chinese nationalism and mocking Taiwan’s political leadership. The group’s content has contributed to the cultural divide between the two sides.
While Taiwan often welcomes Chinese artists, the use of politically charged language is a red line. The Mainland Affairs Council emphasized that any engagement with Chinese performers must be based on reciprocity and respect for Taiwan’s status. By banning Wang, Taiwan is sending a clear message that it will not allow cultural platforms to be used to advance Beijing’s territorial claims.
