Taiwan Security Institute Faces Controversy: Former Director Dismissed Amidst Harassment Allegations

Former Director Li Wen-chung Dismissed Following Investigation, Defends Himself with Support from Retired Generals

The Taiwan National Defense Security Research Institute (also known as the National Defense Security Research Institute) finds itself embroiled in controversy following an internal investigation into allegations of sexual harassment. Former Executive Director Li Wen-chung has been dismissed from his position after the institute's sexual harassment committee determined that he had engaged in inappropriate behavior by sending suggestive text messages to a female employee.

In a public statement, Li Wen-chung expressed his respect for the decision while also issuing an apology, stating he had not received an official notice of the findings. In an attempt to counter the accusations, Li Wen-chung presented a petition signed by 73 retired military officers, including 10 generals, who voiced their support for him, citing his commitment to veterans and his cross-party approach to issues.

The investigation focused on allegations that Li Wen-chung sent a series of suggestive messages to a female employee, and also that Former Deputy Executive Director Han Gang-ming put pressure on the same female employee. Following the sexual harassment complaint, the Defense Institute formed a sexual harassment complaint committee. The committee's ruling last week concluded that both Li and Han were guilty of sexual harassment and bullying, respectively, resulting in their dismissal. Notably, Li Wen-chung had resigned before the case became public, and Han Gang-ming also left his post before the committee reached its decision.