Image reproduced from 非凡新聞

Internet celebrity and influencer Chen Zhihan, known as the 'Ghost', concluded his six-day visit to Shanghai, China, on the 15th, returning to Taiwan. In reflection on his trip, he remarked that he gained new insights into various aspects of China, stating, 'Previously, I thought the mainland was suffering terribly; now I realize that it is completely a lie fabricated by the DPP.' He emphasized that he has never belittled Taiwan, as his trip was entirely self-funded. He asserted, 'If people's lives keep improving, they will never fight.'

During this trip, which he fully financed himself, he reiterated that he had not received any financial support from others, stressing that he truly spent his own money. He expressed how this journey has updated his perspectives regarding China's infrastructure, living standards, environmental cleanliness, and public services, admitting that he had many negative impressions of China due to limited sources of information in the past. However, his perception has shifted remarkably, saying, 'I used to think the mainland was suffering terribly; now I realize that was completely a lie by the DPP.'

In response to doubts regarding whether his trip was a pre-planned 'performance,' the Ghost clarified that much of the controversy stems from taking his statements out of context and deliberate misrepresentation. He highlighted activities such as visiting waste sorting stations, experiencing traditional attire, and broadcasting from a high-speed train. All of these were distorted in reports to suggest privilege or theatrics. 'I am Taiwanese; how could I belittle Taiwan? I just came to observe and to provide myself an opportunity for reflection,' he explained.

The Ghost does not rule out considering doing business in China in the future, stating that this is something any entrepreneur would hope for. However, he also noted that there may be repercussions upon returning to Taiwan and how this could impact his career, adding, 'Perhaps I may never come back to China; maybe I won't dare to come back, and if my business faces boycott and goes bankrupt, I wouldn't have the money to return.'

He expressed a desire for people on both sides of the strait to connect and understand each other better in order to reduce misunderstandings and hatred. He hopes his trip can foster more understanding and peace, questioning, 'We speak the same language, celebrate the same festivals, and eat the same cuisine, yet we stab each other with knives; isn't that strange?' He concluded, 'If people's lives keep improving, they will never fight.'