Taiwan

Workers at the Taiwanese factory producing a snack widely used as a good-luck charm in the chip industry have voted 94% in favor of a strike, threatening production. The dispute centers on employees demanding a share of a $176 million factory sale to ASE. A halt would disrupt supply of a product that has become symbolic in semiconductor workplaces.

Attention is turning to whether South Korea could avoid being drawn into a military conflict over Taiwan. The question reflects growing concern that a cross-strait clash would entangle US allies in the region, given South Korea's alliance commitments and proximity to the flashpoint. Debate focuses on Seoul's options for staying out of a war that many analysts fear could erupt with little warning.

Taiwan's foreign minister has departed for Belize and Guatemala, accompanied by a business delegation. The visit underscores Taipei's efforts to maintain ties with two of its remaining diplomatic allies in Central America and to promote trade and investment opportunities. Details about the delegation's agenda or the officials involved were not immediately available.

The political blog Frozen Garlic has reviewed the campaign launches of the two main candidates for mayor of New Taipei City, Taiwan. The KMT's Lee Sichuan, known as Hammer Lee and a former deputy mayor of Taipei, is running against DPP legislator Su Chiao-hui. New Taipei City is widely seen as a barometer of Taiwan's local elections, giving the contest significance beyond the city itself.