Zhao Jianming flies to Ho Chi Minh City early morning, silent amid media inquiries

Zhao Jianming, the former son-in-law of ex-Taiwan President Chen Shui-bian, departed from Kaohsiung Airport early this morning, heading to Ho Chi Minh City via Vietnam Airlines. The trip comes amid a backdrop of ongoing controversy surrounding his personal life and financial dealings.

Zhao was seen at the departure hall around 5 a.m. with three to four male companions, checking in for a flight scheduled to depart at 7:30 a.m. His travel plans were initially questioned by his ex-wife, Chen Hsing-yu, who had publicly stated he was traveling abroad with a university student. However, a friend of Zhao's had claimed the trip was canceled.

When approached by reporters, Zhao maintained a somber expression and offered no comment in response to questions about a NT$60 million housing loan dispute and his divorce. He quickly proceeded through immigration, marking his first public appearance since the controversies erupted.

Speculation among netizens and media outlets abounds regarding his travel companions and the purpose of his trip, with some jokingly questioning if he was meeting Vietnamese women or seeking massages. The absence of any visible female companions at the check-in counter fueled further conjecture.