Taiwanese Celebrities Face Scrutiny in Alleged Draft-Dodging Scandal

Several Taiwanese entertainers are under investigation for allegedly using fraudulent medical records to evade mandatory military service.

A number of Taiwanese celebrities are facing legal repercussions after being implicated in an alleged scheme to avoid mandatory military service through the use of fabricated medical records. Several prominent figures were detained and later released on bail on the 14th of the month, pending further investigation.

According to reports, the individuals allegedly paid to obtain false medical documentation, primarily citing "abnormal blood pressure" as the reason for their exemption. Medical professionals have raised concerns about the plausibility of such claims, suggesting that it is difficult to definitively diagnose high blood pressure based on only one or two readings. A continuous pattern of leniency from the relevant authorities would likely be required for this to succeed.

Law enforcement has expanded the investigation into the alleged draft-dodging ring, uncovering the involvement of more well-known figures. Those involved include Chen Da-tien, Li Chuan from "Chao Ke 7," stage actor Huang Po-shi, A-hu, and model Chen Hsin-wei, who are alleged to have falsely claimed to have high blood pressure to avoid conscription.

According to the *United Daily News*, medical deputy director Liu Peng-chih from Shin Kong Hospital explained that it is difficult to diagnose high blood pressure based on only one or two tests due to its variability. He highlighted that continuous leniency from the relevant authorities would be necessary for such claims to be accepted. "If this is true, draft evasion may not be a simple, isolated event," he noted.