Japanese Netizen Criticized for 'Rude' Letter to Tsai Ing-wen; Former President Responds Warmly

A Japanese netizen's handwritten letter to former Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen, expressing a desire for her to show him around Taiwan, sparked an online backlash. The netizen, known as "Kazuma" on social media, shared his letter on Threads, where he had been posting daily updates about his journey to Taiwan since May 31. His letter, written in traditional Chinese, included a casual closing: "I hope one day, you can take me around Taiwan, haha."

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I hope one day, you can take me around Taiwan, haha.

This remark quickly drew criticism from some netizens who deemed it impolite and disrespectful. Comments ranged from advising him to use a more formal address for a former president to questioning the appropriateness of asking a former head of state to act as a personal tour guide. Some argued that such a request could misrepresent the spirit of "Taiwan-Japan friendship."

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For former presidents, you usually don't use 'Miss'.

Facing the online "flaming," Kazuma posted another handwritten letter, apologizing for causing offense and distress. He explained that he believed "Miss" was a common Taiwanese term for women and was unaware it was unsuitable for a former president. He clarified that his wish to be shown around Taiwan was meant in a lighthearted manner, not as a genuine expectation.

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Asking a former president of another country to be a tour guide is very surprising. Tsai Ing-wen is a very kind person, but she shouldn't be consumed like this.

In a heartwarming turn, Tsai Ing-wen herself responded to Kazuma's post. She welcomed him to Taiwan and assured him that many enthusiastic Taiwanese would be eager to show him around. She also added that he could address her as "former President Tsai Ing-wen," "Miss Tsai Ing-wen," or "Xiao Ying" (Little Ying), encouraging him not to be too formal and suggesting that a Taiwanese president could also be like a friend. Kazuma expressed his surprise and gratitude for her warm reply, and other netizens offered support, urging him not to be bothered by the negative comments and to enjoy his trip to Taiwan.

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I apologize for my words and actions that have made some people unhappy and troubled. I thought 'Miss' was a Taiwanese term for women and did not know this address was unsuitable for a former president.