August 16, 2025 – Hsinchu, Taiwan
A man working as an outsourced employee for Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) is at the center of online controversy after a disruptive incident at a breakfast shop in Hsinchu’s Linsen Road area.
According to police and witness accounts, the man, identified only by his surname Li, visited the shop early in the morning and urgently requested to use the restroom. The shop owner explained that the restroom was shared with the landlord upstairs and could not be made available to customers. This refusal reportedly triggered an angry outburst from Li, who allegedly shouted gang-related phrases, knocked items off the counter, and slapped a female staff member. The frightened employee immediately called the police.
Officers from Nanmen Police Station responded, finding Li emotionally unstable and uncooperative. Authorities say he was subdued with pepper spray, handcuffed, and taken to the station for protective custody. While being restrained, Li reportedly lost control of his bladder, adding to the chaos.
Police stated that Li appeared calmer after a period of observation and was released without formal arrest. However, he later returned to the same breakfast shop, shouting and provoking staff while smoking a cigarette, further alarming the owner. Tearful and distressed, the owner pleaded with him not to return.
The incident quickly spread online, with some netizens uncovering Li’s social media presence, where he reportedly had more than 1,000 followers and a small fan group. Following the backlash, Li shut down his accounts and reportedly left for southern Taiwan.
In a statement, Nanmen Police Chief Hu Yuren acknowledged that the handling of the case was flawed and promised an internal review. He explained that the decision to release Li was based on his improved emotional state but admitted that the response could have been stronger. Officers have since revisited the breakfast shop to express support and assure the safety of staff.
The case has sparked discussion on public safety, mental health, and police procedures, especially given the man’s connection to one of Taiwan’s most prominent companies.
