You Can Get Fined Up To S$2K For Releasing Sky Lanterns In Taiwan, & That's What Could Happen To Lin Chiling

Releasing sky lanterns is such a popular activity in Taiwan, you'd probably think it's perfectly lawful to do so.

But... no.

Recently, an old photo of Lin Chiling's family releasing a sky lantern in Taipei's Pingxi district from two years ago was said to have been reported by a citizen for allegedly violating the Railway Act.

If the violation is confirmed, the 51-year-old Taiwanese model could face a fine of up to NT50K (SS$2K).

It's said that for her 50th birthday in November 2024, Chiling had travelled to Pingxi's Shifen area with her husband, Japanese singer Akira, 44, and their three-year-old son.

Back then, Akira shared a family photo on their socials, including one showing them releasing a sky lantern on the railway tracks. 

Unexpectedly, this set of photos was reported by a member of the public after two years, alleging that the family was suspected of releasing a sky lantern within the railway premises.

After accepting the report, the Railway Police Bureau has since forwarded the case to the MOTC Railway Bureau for review.

In response, Chiling stated through her agent that should there be a fine issued to her, "I will obediently pay the fine, and thank you everyone for your concern".

She also took the opportunity to remind the public to make sure they should release sky lanterns in permitted areas, urging everyone to follow relevant regulations and avoid breaking the law while appreciating the cultural characteristics of Pingxi.

According to Article 57 of the current Railway Act, pedestrians and vehicles are prohibited from intruding into railway tracks, bridges, tunnels, and areas within station zones not designated for public passage.

Violators are subject to a fine ranging from NT10K to NT50K (S$398–S$2K).

If the violation seriously affects railway traffic safety, the fine will be increased to between NT50K and NT100K (S$2K –S$4K).

Furthermore, if it causes serious injury or death, fines start at NT100K (S$4K) and can reach up to NT500K (S$20K).