Controversies and 'Han-jian' Allegations Regarding Su Tseng-chang's Ancestors

In Taiwanese politics, Su Tseng-chang's family background has long been a focal point of attacks from political opponents. The controversy primarily centers on the roles of his grandfather, Su Yun-ying, and grand-uncle, Su Yun-ti, during the Japanese colonial period. Opponents allege that Su Yun-ying betrayed anti-Japanese leader Lin Shao-mao to the Japanese military during the 1902 'Lin Shao-mao Incident,' leading to the destruction of resistance forces. Critics claim the Su family prospered due to Japanese favor, labeling them as 'Han-jian' (traitors) and 'sellers of Taiwan.' Furthermore, Su's father, Su Qi-dong, has also faced criticism for inheriting this 'unjust' family legacy. However, historical scholars and fact-checking organizations (such as the Taiwan FactCheck Center) have noted that historical records like the 'Biographies of Local Worthies in Pingtung County' only document the family's business developments and lack evidence of betraying resistance fighters. While Su Yun-ti was among the gentry involved in Lin Shao-mao's surrender coordination, direct evidence linking Su Yun-ying to the betrayal is weak. Su Tseng-chang has repeatedly refuted these claims as political smears used during elections, presenting family-held shares of the 'Formosa Republic' to emphasize his family's history of opposing foreign authoritarianism and to defend their reputation. This controversy reflects differing evaluations of historical figures from the colonial era and how family histories are transformed into negative labels in modern political struggles.