TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Minister of National Defense Wellington Koo (顧立雄) announced Wednesday (June 26) that the Honor Guards' performances at the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall will be relocated to Liberty Square. However, the statues of Chiang will continue to be properly maintained and protected.
The Democratic Progressive Party has praised the relocation as a significant step toward avoiding glorifying the former dictator and fostering a truthful engagement with Taiwan's history.
However, the decision has faced criticism. Tourists are concerned about the Honor Guards' welfare, citing the lack of cover in Liberty Square that could expose the soldiers to harsh weather conditions, including direct sunlight.
As Taiwan addresses its complex historical legacy, the relocation of the Honor Guards symbolizes a step toward acknowledging past injustices. The impact of this decision on public perception and engagement with the nation's history remains uncertain.