TAOYUAN, Taiwan (TVBS News) — Taiwan Air Force badges featuring a Formosan Black Bear punching a Winnie the Pooh have become a hot commodity in Taoyuan, Taiwan, following a recent viral picture. The badges, worn by Taiwan air force pilots, are seen as a symbolic gesture toward China amid rising cross-strait tensions.
The viral picture, taken earlier this week, featured a Taiwan Air Force pilot wearing the patch on his jacket sleeve. Winnie the Pooh is often associated with Chinese President Xi Jinping, and the badge appears to depict Taiwan standing up to its larger neighbor.
According to the local Taoyuan shop owner, the badges have been selling like hotcakes. The owner stated that his designs are often inspired by viral moments, including Will Smith's slap of Academy Awards host Chris Rock at the 2022 Oscars.
The badges offer some comedic relief for local Taiwanese amidst China's recent military drills around the island. The exercises come in response to Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen's recent visit to North and Central America, where she met with U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy.
