October 1, 2025 | Taipei, Taiwan
A dispute over priority seating on the Taipei Metro has once again ignited public discussion after an elderly woman allegedly pressured a young passenger to give up his seat and even struck him with her bag before being pushed away. The woman was later identified as a researcher at Academia Sinica with a controversial past, including prior convictions tied to harassment and false accusations.
Court documents revealed that the woman, surnamed Zeng, had previously targeted former National Taiwan University mathematics professor Zhang. Beginning in 2003, she frequently visited Zhang’s office, insisting he join her so-called “Fanyi Project,” despite repeated refusals. Her persistent harassment led Zhang to resign from his post in 2004.
Investigators found that Zeng also sent multiple letters and emails demanding contact with Zhang. In 2005, she threatened to spread damaging allegations, including claims of sexual assault involving Zhang, which prosecutors later determined were fabricated.
The Shilin District Court found Zeng guilty of aggravated defamation and attempted coercion, sentencing her to a combined 90 days’ detention, suspended for two years. The penalty may be converted to a fine. As part of her probation, she must undergo protective supervision and complete 24 sessions of psychological counseling.
In its ruling, the court emphasized that while free speech is protected under the Constitution, it does not give license to harm another person’s reputation. Zeng’s baseless accusations, the court held, went beyond fair comment and inflicted serious damage on Zhang’s professional standing.
The resurfacing of Zeng’s past has amplified debate over both civility in public spaces like the metro and the boundaries of free expression in Taiwan.