Bolin Chen Pleads Guilty in Taiwan Draft Evasion Case
SingTao · 1 SOURCESabout 3 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
Taiwanese actor Bolin Chen, who regained major popularity in 2011 for his role as Li Da-ren in In Time With You, appeared in New Taipei District Court on August 21 over a draft evasion case. Prosecutors have charged Chen and fellow entertainer Kun-da after they were implicated last October in an alleged scheme involving fake medical records used to avoid military service, with each facing a requested sentence of two years and eight months. In court, Chen pleaded guilty and sought leniency through a suspended sentence, while later telling reporters he would be more cautious in future, do meaningful things for society, and fully cooperate with the judiciary. Kun-da also apologized again after the hearing and said he would respect the judicial process
Key Points
- Chen and Kun-da arrived at court in dark clothing and quickly entered without speaking before the hearing at New Taipei District Court on August 21
- Prosecutors allege the pair paid between NT$100,000 and NT$300,000, about HK$25,000 to HK$75,000, for fake medical records to evade service
- Chen told the court he was introduced through Kun-da and then came to know alleged draft-evasion ring leader Chen Chih-ming
- Chen’s lawyer said he had no prior criminal record, showed a good post-offence attitude, and was 27 with a developing career when he erred
- Leaving court, Chen apologized and said he would respect justice and fully cooperate; a dropped reporter’s shoe briefly created a light moment outside
Why It Matters
The case keeps public attention on how celebrity status intersects with legal accountability, especially when entertainers are accused of using money and influence to avoid obligations faced by ordinary citizens. For Hong Kong readers who closely follow Taiwanese drama and film stars, the proceedings may also affect Chen’s public image and future commercial work in the wider Chinese-speaking entertainment market