During the grave relocation process, rumors circulated after excavation machinery temporarily stalled, prompting speculation of supernatural interference. City officials attributed the incident to mechanical overheating but, respecting local custom, still carried out traditional rites to ensure the project proceeded smoothly.

Opening Dec. 27, Panhua Park was redesigned from the old 三民一號公園 (Sanmin Park No. 1) beginning in June 2024, with a focus on restoring severely saline soil, reducing hard surfaces, and increasing green coverage.

The city said more than 100,000 people attended the first night, with crowds spilling into nearby shopping areas as officials stepped up security and traffic controls.

Kaohsiung is tightening enforcement of Taiwan’s local amusement tax as year-end dining demand rises. After a city website update on Dec. 15, 2025, and Finance Ministry guidance on Dec. 19, restaurants offering karaoke and TV or projection screens may be treated like KTV venues for tax purposes.

Kaohsiung’s Transportation Bureau has set traffic controls for the city’s 2026 New Year’s Eve show at Dream Mall, with phased road closures starting 3 p.m. Dec. 31, no car parking on site and extended late-night service on metro and rail to move crowds quickly.

One widely supported revision is the announcement at Kaohsiung Main Station, where the Taiwanese term was changed from “tshia-tsam” (車站) to “tshia-thau” (車頭), a form many speakers consider more natural.

MRT extended to 2 am, Light Rail to 1:30 am, and TRA trains will keep on chugging until 2:30 am.

A towering column of black smoke was seen for kilometers. Initial reports cite 33 trucks and 65 responders dispatched and roads cordoned. No trapped workers had been reported by afternoon.

Pedestrian crossings are being adjusted. Crosswalks are being set slightly farther back from intersections, and striped markings are being re-angled so drivers can see pedestrians earlier as they approach.

Local Mega Mall Plans Firework “Firsts” to see in 2026.