Taipei, Taiwan – Zhao Yanqing, a veteran who gained notoriety for his unsuccessful bids for public office and a life spent collecting scrap metal, has died at the age of 91. Zhao passed away on February 24th, 2026, at a hospital in Suao, Yilan County, after a long battle with dementia. His life story, marked by political aspirations, financial hardship, and an unexpected windfall from Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) stock, offers a poignant reflection of Taiwan’s social and economic landscape.
Zhao first captured public attention in 2014 when he ran for mayor of Taipei, contributing a substantial 2 million New Taiwan dollars (approximately $62,000 USD as of March 16, 2026) as a deposit for his candidacy. According to reports, he secured over 15,000 votes, but fell short of the 10% threshold required to reclaim his deposit. He later ran for a seat in the Taipei City Da’an District Legislative Yuan, again without success. Despite these electoral setbacks, Zhao remained committed to advocating for marginalized communities.
A Life of Service and Struggle
Born in 1935, Zhao Yanqing’s life was one of dedicated service to Taiwan. He graduated from the Republic of China Military Academy and participated in the construction of the Suhua Highway, a vital transportation artery connecting eastern and western Taiwan. As reported by Yahoo Taiwan News, he also worked as an engineer and taxi driver after his military service. Despite his contributions, Zhao faced financial difficulties in his later years, relying on a veteran’s allowance of approximately 15,000 New Taiwan dollars per month. He supplemented this income by collecting scrap metal and occasionally sleeping in parks, embodying a life of austerity and resilience.
Zhao’s dedication to service extended beyond his professional life. He consistently sought to give voice to the concerns of vulnerable populations, a motivation that fueled his repeated attempts to enter politics. He believed that his experiences and perspectives could contribute to a more equitable society, even if his campaigns were often considered unconventional.
The TSMC Stock Surprise
A surprising turn of events occurred when it was discovered that Zhao held shares in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), the world’s largest contract chipmaker. The significant appreciation in TSMC’s stock price led to Zhao being reclassified as an asset holder, resulting in the cancellation of his veteran’s allowance. This situation highlighted the complexities of Taiwan’s social welfare system and the challenges faced by individuals with limited financial resources who experience unexpected gains.
According to reports from the United Daily News, Zhao’s veteran’s allowance was suspended in November 2024 after a review in July of the same year determined his average monthly income exceeded the threshold for low-income households in Taipei City, which stood at 28,071 New Taiwan dollars. The loss of this crucial income source forced Zhao to cover his hospital expenses independently during his final years.
Dementia and Final Years
Zhao was diagnosed with moderate dementia approximately seven years ago and was subsequently placed in a nursing home affiliated with the Taipei Veterans General Hospital Suao Branch. Despite his declining health, he continued to express interest in running for office, particularly for the position of Taipei mayor. Friends and caregivers gently dissuaded him from pursuing further campaigns, recognizing the toll it would seize on his well-being.
His later years were marked by isolation, with few close friends or family members. An old classmate, Zou Xiang Sheng, occasionally visited him in the hospital, providing a rare source of companionship. The Taipei Veterans Affairs Department is handling Zhao’s estate, which will be held for three years in case any eligible heirs come forward. If no claimants appear, the assets will be transferred to the national treasury.
A Complex Legacy
Zhao Yanqing’s life story is a compelling illustration of the challenges and contradictions within Taiwanese society. He was a dedicated veteran who struggled financially, a political outsider who passionately advocated for the marginalized, and an unlikely investor who experienced an unexpected financial windfall. His story resonates with themes of social justice, economic inequality, and the enduring spirit of those who strive to make a difference.
His unconventional campaign strategies and unique background – including listing “Jinan Second United Middle School,” “Yuanlin Experimental Middle School,” and “Exiled Student” as experiences in his election materials – garnered attention and sparked discussion during his mayoral run. Zhao was known for his stubbornness and independent spirit, qualities that both endeared him to some and alienated others.
The passing of Zhao Yanqing marks the end of an era for a man who, despite his lack of political success, left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew him and those who followed his story. His life serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion, perseverance, and the pursuit of a more just and equitable society.
The Taipei Veterans Affairs Department has not yet announced details regarding a memorial service. Further updates will be provided as they become available.
Key Takeaways:
- Zhao Yanqing, a veteran and former political candidate, passed away at the age of 91.
- He gained public attention for his unsuccessful mayoral bid and his life of collecting scrap metal.
- An unexpected holding in TSMC stock led to the loss of his veteran’s allowance.
- Zhao’s life reflects the challenges faced by marginalized communities in Taiwan.
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