Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Taiwan's Ko Wen-je Sentenced to 17 Years for Corruption

3/29/2026

32 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Ko Wen-je, founder of the Taiwan People's Party (TPP) and former Taipei mayor, was sentenced to 17 years for corruption and barred from the 2028 presidential race.
The court found Ko guilty of accepting bribes exceeding NT$17 million (about $530,000) related to a real estate project.
The court also found he misreported campaign finances.
Supporters protested, saying the verdict is political persecution by the Democratic Progressive Party.

1 of 1

Story summary

Ko Wen-je, founder of the Taiwan People's Party (TPP) and former Taipei mayor, was sentenced to 17 years for corruption and barred from the 2028 presidential race.
The court found Ko guilty of accepting bribes exceeding NT$17 million (about $530,000) related to a real estate project.
The court also found he misreported campaign finances.
Supporters protested, saying the verdict is political persecution by the Democratic Progressive Party.