Rejecting Guo Cheng-liang's Apology, Yorihiko Yatabe to Sue: 'Allegation of Raising NT$50 Million as 'Pro-Taiwan Financier' is Outrageous

Japanese senior media figure Yorihiko Yatabe has drawn public attention after being attacked by a Chinese national, Liao Gang-fa. Former legislator Guo Cheng-liang subsequently questioned Yatabe's background on his YouTube program, falsely claiming that Yatabe had received NT$50 million in funding from pro-Taiwan donors for the establishment of the 'Indo-Pacific Strategy Think Tank' in 2024. Yatabe expressed strong dissatisfaction, and although Guo later issued a video apology, Yatabe has rejected it, citing lack of sincerity and specificity.

On July 18, Yatabe announced his decision to file a lawsuit against Guo Cheng-liang. He stated that the accusations made by Guo on July 9 were entirely unverified and have severely damaged his reputation. Yatabe emphasized that the claim of receiving NT$50 million from unnamed 'pro-Taiwan financiers' is completely baseless and deeply offensive.

Moreover, Yatabe pointed out that Guo's defamatory video remains online, having been viewed over 94,000 times, causing ongoing and expanding harm not only to himself but also to the 'Indo-Pacific Strategy Think Tank' he leads. He stressed that the continued circulation of false information undermines public trust and credibility.

Yatabe confirmed that he has already engaged legal counsel and will formally file a lawsuit. At the time of filing, his legal team will release a detailed statement to clarify the facts and correct public misunderstanding. He emphasized the importance of combating misinformation and upholding truth in public discourse.

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