Taiwan’s entertainment industry has been rocked by a military service evasion scandal involving four prominent male celebrities: Wilson Chen (Chen Bolin), Hsiu Chieh-kai, Brian (Liljay), and Joe Chang (Chang Shu-wei).
On October 21, the New Taipei District Prosecutors Office summoned the four actors and singers for questioning amid allegations that they falsified medical records to avoid mandatory military duty. Authorities suspect the group colluded with intermediaries to forge health documents in exchange for payments ranging from NT$100,000 to NT$300,000 (approximately USD $3,100–$9,300).
Despite being granted bail at NT$500,000 (USD $16,000) each, the entertainers are officially under investigation for violating Taiwan’s Military Service Act and document forgery laws. Their cases have now been forwarded for prosecution.
Wilson Chen, a household name known for his roles in In Time with You and Love of May, is accused of using fabricated hypertension reports to dodge enlistment. His admission during questioning shocked fans and cast a shadow over a once-unblemished reputation.
Hsiu Chieh-kai, best known for dramas like Mars and My Dear Bad Guy, is also under scrutiny. He is married to award-winning actress Alyssa Chia, which further amplified public interest in the case.
Brian, formerly of the boy band Lollipop and later JPM, maintained a clean-cut public image. His alleged involvement has disappointed many fans who remember him as a cheerful idol figure of the 2000s.
Joe Chang, the leader of the iconic group Energy, had transitioned into acting in recent years. His participation in critically acclaimed series like The World Between Us made his fall from grace all the more dramatic.
Under Taiwanese law, all able-bodied men between 18 and 36 must complete one year of military service. Those found guilty of intentionally avoiding conscription may face up to five years in prison.
This high-profile scandal has ignited fierce public debate about celebrity privilege, social responsibility, and the integrity of Taiwan’s military conscription system. As investigations continue, the careers of these four entertainers hang in the balance.
Sources: K14
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