TSMC Plant Site Yields Ancient Remains, Safety Woes; Puppet Show Held for Protection

Construction at TSMC's advanced packaging plant in Taiwan's Chiayi Science Park has been disrupted by a series of unsettling discoveries and serious industrial accidents. During the initial phases of construction, workers unearthed significant archaeological finds, including pottery fragments, rings, ash pits, and human skeletal remains. These remains, estimated to be between 3,500 and 4,500 years old from the Middle to Late Neolithic period, included both adult and child burials.

Adding to the site's troubled history, the plant has also experienced multiple fatal industrial accidents. Between May and July of last year, several major workplace safety incidents occurred, prompting the company to seek divine intervention. This week, TSMC is holding a traditional Taiwanese puppet show. The performance is dedicated to the deity Guan Yu, a figure revered for his loyalty and martial prowess, in hopes of ensuring safe and peaceful construction of the plant.