Kaohsiung residents flood mayor's Facebook with praise after city-wide typhoon suspension

Kaohsiung residents expressed a mix of concern and appreciation on Mayor Chen Chi-mai's Facebook page as the city navigated typhoon preparations. Initially, the city government announced that 10 administrative districts would suspend classes and work on June 26th due to the potential for heavy rainfall and localized downpours associated with Typhoon Haikui.

Following this announcement, Mayor Chen's Facebook page was inundated with comments. Many residents from unaffected areas urged for a city-wide suspension, with some playfully using the onomatopoeia "gulu gulu" to express their anticipation and concern about the weather. Comments ranged from suggestions for a full suspension to lighthearted critiques, with one user even jokingly threatening not to vote for the mayor if a city-wide suspension wasn't declared.

However, after the city government later announced a suspension for all districts in Kaohsiung, the tone on Chen's Facebook page shifted dramatically. The "gulu gulu" comments were replaced by an outpouring of praise, with residents calling the mayor "handsome," "great," and "hardworking." Many expressed their relief and appreciation for the decision, viewing it as a welcome "small joy" amidst the typhoon's approach.

The dynamic on the mayor's social media reflected the public's engagement with the typhoon response, moving from anxious anticipation to relieved gratitude. The swift shift in comments highlighted the community's focus on safety and their appreciation for decisive action from the city government.