Taiwanese celebrity reveals seven years of workplace harassment in auto industry
Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Taiwanese celebrity Li Kuan-yi has revealed she endured seven years of workplace bullying and sexual harassment in the automotive industry.
- She described incidents including unwanted physical contact and having her hosting jobs replaced without notice.
- Li hopes her public statement will encourage other victims to speak out and promote a more respectful work environment.
Taiwanese celebrity Li Kuan-yi, once dubbed the "Goddess of the Automotive World," has broken her silence about enduring seven years of workplace bullying and sexual harassment within the industry. In a lengthy social media post, Li detailed her experiences, stating she felt compelled to speak out to protect herself and others who have suffered similar injustices.
If even I don't dare to protect myself, who else can speak out for those who are also suffering injustice?
Li recounted instances of disrespect, including unwanted physical advances and having her hosting roles abruptly canceled and replaced without her knowledge until the program aired. She admitted to enduring these situations in silence, hoping her compliance would lead to a better outcome, but now believes her tolerance may have enabled the behavior.
The situation resurfaced recently when Li encountered the individual who had caused her distress at a brand event. The person reportedly grabbed her arm without consent, triggering painful memories and reinforcing her decision to speak publicly. Li emphasized that regardless of personal familiarity, non-consensual physical contact in the workplace is disrespectful and constitutes harassment.
Regardless of whether you know each other privately, non-consensual physical contact in the workplace is disrespectful and a form of offense.
Beyond her personal ordeal, Li revealed that she has heard similar stories from colleagues and public relations professionals in the industry, involving high-pressure tactics and veiled threats. She questioned why some individuals resort to oppression and intimidation when professional effort should be the basis for success. Li directly addressed the alleged harasser, asking if he would be comfortable with his wife or daughter facing similar treatment.
You have a wife and daughters. If they were treated like this in the workplace, would you be happy?
"It is already 2026, and the media and industry should be built on content and influence, not on fear," Li stated, urging for an end to bullying and the misuse of power against women in the workplace. She acknowledged the potential for backlash but expressed her resolve to stand up for victims, thanking her supporters for their encouragement as she continues her professional career with integrity.
It is already 2026, and the media and industry should be built on content and influence, not on fear.
Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.