Strong Earthquake Strikes Kumamoto! Kang Yu-cheng Donates 500,000 JPY for Relief: Kaohsiung and Kumamoto Show True Solidarity in Crisis

A powerful earthquake has recently struck Kumamoto, Japan, causing significant casualties and widespread damage. In response, Kaohsiung City Council Speaker Kang Yu-cheng immediately expressed condolences to Kumamoto Prefectural Assembly member Tatsuo Fujikawa. Today (30th), he announced a personal donation of 500,000 Japanese yen as relief funds, aiming to support recovery efforts and demonstrate Kaohsiung’s solidarity with Kumamoto during this difficult time.

Kang emphasized the long-standing close exchanges between Kaohsiung and Kumamoto. Since establishing a sister-city relationship in 2017, Kaohsiung became Kumamoto’s first sister city in Taiwan, while Kumamoto became Kaohsiung’s first Japanese prefectural-level sister city. The two city councils have maintained regular mutual visits over the years, and cooperation has grown even stronger recently due to TSMC’s investment in building a semiconductor plant in Kumamoto, deepening ties in industry, economy, and urban collaboration.

Kang stated that true friendship is shown when support is offered during times of greatest need. He recalled that when the 2014 Kaohsiung gas explosion occurred, Kumamoto was among the first to offer cross-strait condolences. In 2016, when Kumamoto suffered a major earthquake, Kaohsiung launched fundraising campaigns and provided full support for reconstruction. At that time, Kang personally joined then-Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi and Tainan Mayor Lai Qing-de on a visit to Kumamoto to deliver relief funds and offer comfort, standing by Kumamoto during its recovery.

Kang said, "Natural disasters are merciless, but human compassion is stronger." He expressed hope that through collective efforts, Kumamoto can swiftly recover and restore stability for its residents. He also stressed that Kaohsiung will continue to walk hand-in-hand with Kumamoto, deepening exchanges and cooperation to ensure that their cross-border friendship grows ever stronger over time.