Taiwan Sports Minister Lee Yang (李洋) was temporarily barred from participating in the 2026 Nagoya Asian Games athletes' village entrance and flag-raising ceremony on Friday, September 18. Lee and the other members of Taiwan’s delegation had completed the necessary registration and application procedures beforehand. Upon arrival however, the organizing committee, citing instructions from the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), raised an objection to Lee’s entry, causing a delay.

Taiwan’s delegation, supporting the athletes competing as Chinese Taipei, immediately initiated coordination efforts and insisted on participating in the ceremony according to established procedures and their due rights. Lee was eventually able to enter the venue and complete the ceremony after approximately 90 minutes.

Chinese Taipei Olympic Committee Vice President and Delegation Deputy Head Chen Shyh-kwei (陳士魁) further explained that the group did not accept the objections as they were inconsistent with existing procedures. Faced with the choice between principles and inconvenience, the delegation chose to uphold its principles and demanded that the organizing committee and the OCA adhere to the Olympic spirit, allowing the Taiwan delegation to participate in all activities equally and with dignity.

Furthermore, the ministry underscored that Lee's purpose in visiting the athletes' village was to show support for the athletes and coaching staff – he had no other motives, and his rights should be respected. It assured the public that now that access rights have been confirmed, there should be no further unnecessary obstruction or interference of delegation personnel.

Lee stated that he hopes the outside world will focus on the Asian Games, and that he looks forward to more Taiwanese athletes showcasing their best efforts, allowing more people to see Taiwan on the international stage.

The 2026 Nagoya Asian Games will commence tomorrow, September 19.