Proposing 'Concert Economy 2.0': Ke Chih-en to Eliminate Scalper Tickets and Encourage Real-Name Purchases with Venue Rent Incentives

Kaohsiung mayoral candidate Ke Chih-en has unveiled her "Concert Economy 2.0" proposal, aiming to enhance the city's thriving concert scene while tackling associated challenges. The plan focuses on a comprehensive approach, from ticketing systems to surrounding tourism infrastructure.

A key element of Ke's proposal is using rent waivers as a policy incentive for concert organizers. She advocates for mandatory real-name ticketing to prevent scalping and illegal resale of tickets. This initiative seeks to protect fan rights and ensure fairer access to events. Ke highlighted that while Kaohsiung's concert economy has seen success, the city faces significant public costs, including high venue maintenance fees, which amounted to NT$43.44 million in a single year for 18 major concerts over two years, according to a 2025 audit report.

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Future city governance cannot just stop at holding events. The current venue fee standards should be further refined. In the future, 'rent waivers' should be transformed from indiscriminate benefits into conditional policy incentives.

To address inflated accommodation prices during major events, Ke proposed a dual strategy of strict management and positive incentives. The city would monitor hotel data, blacklisting establishments that raise prices more than double the weekday rate during event periods and adjusting their subsidy eligibility. Conversely, hotels maintaining reasonable prices would receive a "Friendly Accommodation" certification, with benefits like priority recommendations and transportation support.

Ke emphasized the importance of elevating Kaohsiung's cultural events, like the "Marseilles Port Music Festival," to international standards, drawing inspiration from global festivals such as Coachella and Glastonbury. The goal is to position Kaohsiung as a major hub for exporting Asian pop music. Additionally, she pledged to attract international sports events, like the HYROX fitness competition, to further boost sports tourism and economic growth.

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The Marseilles Port Music Festival has already become an important cultural brand for Kaohsiung. In the future, not only should it continue to be held, but it should also be upgraded towards internationalization.