China: "Taiwanese Seeking Independence Will Also Be Criminally Punished Under Chinese Domestic Law"

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen. [Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Song Seung-seop] The Chinese government has threatened to criminally punish Taiwanese people who actively pursue independence based on Chinese law.

On the 5th (local time), Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, stated that those listed as "stubborn Taiwan independence activists" will "be held criminally responsible according to the law, and the effect will apply for life." The Taiwan Affairs Office is the Chinese government's organization responsible for Taiwan. Spokesperson Zhu mentioned three individuals as stubborn Taiwan independence activists: Su Tseng-chang, Premier of Taiwan's Executive Yuan; You Si-kun, former chairman of Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party; and Wu Chao-hsieh, Taiwan's Minister of Foreign Affairs.

The news that the Chinese government is creating a list of those pursuing Taiwan independence first emerged last year through Chinese-language media. However, since a government official has now officially declared the intention to create the list and enforce the law, significant repercussions are expected.

Those on the list will be banned from visiting mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau. This restriction applies not only to the individuals themselves but also to their families. Furthermore, institutions related to those on the list will be unable to collaborate with relevant Chinese organizations and individuals. Companies associated with or funding these individuals will be prohibited from conducting profit-making activities on the mainland, and other necessary disciplinary measures will be imposed.

China currently considers Taiwan as part of its territory but does not exercise effective control, such as administrative authority. Therefore, it is widely believed that even if these measures are implemented, it will be difficult to punish individuals unless unification is achieved.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.