Tsai Yi-chen released in Japan after vandalism of national treasure

Taiwanese actress Tsai Yi-chen, also known by her stage name Wu Xiong, has been released in Japan after being investigated for the vandalism of a national treasure. The incident occurred in April at the Yakushiji Temple in Nara, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where Tsai reportedly poured a liquid containing glycerin onto the ‘Buddha Footprint Stone’.

Tsai was arrested upon re-entering Japan last month for violating the Law for the Protection of Cultural Properties. Reports indicate she was detained for 10 days and ordered to pay a fine of 500,000 yen. Following her release on September 2, Tsai issued a formal apology in both Chinese and Japanese via social media. She admitted to her ‘ignorance and foolishness,’ stating that she failed to respect the culture, history, and laws of the country.

The incident has sparked significant debate in both Japan and Taiwan. While Tsai expressed regret for the negative example she set for Taiwanese society, some netizens criticized her apology, suggesting her tone was self-centered. Additionally, the incident has prompted discussions within religious communities regarding the interpretation of spiritual rituals and the responsibility of churches toward their members.