Israeli Journalist Rides Kymco Scooter in Taiwan Amid Rising Geopolitical Tensions

Israeli journalist Danny Kushmaro traveled across Taiwan on a Kymco AK575 scooter, exploring the island’s technological prominence and geopolitical volatility. Taiwan, once known for cheap goods, is now a global tech hub, producing about 90% of the world’s advanced semiconductor chips through TSMC. The island’s strategic importance is underscored by its proximity to China, just 130 kilometers away, raising fears that conflict there could trigger a global war.

Kushmaro’s journey began in Taipei, including a visit to the iconic Taipei 101 skyscraper, before taking the high-speed train south to Kaohsiung. There, he toured Kymco’s large manufacturing plant, which employs around 3,000 workers and produces 1,200 scooters daily, totaling roughly half a million annually. Kymco, a 60-year-old company, is expanding into electric scooters and collaborating with Harley-Davidson’s electric division. Their engines power premium scooters like BMW’s C650.

The ride on the AK575, a powerful 574cc maxi-scooter with advanced features such as electronic throttle, cruise control, heated grips, and keyless ignition, showcased Taiwan’s unique scooter culture. Despite heavy rain and strict traffic rules, the well-maintained roads and stunning Pacific Ocean views provided a memorable experience. The scooter’s performance, including Brembo brakes and ABS, offered confidence on winding mountain roads.

Taiwan’s culture blends modernity with tradition, visible in daily life scenes like elderly women riding scooters home with groceries. The island’s economy and society face constant pressure from China, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory. Locals acknowledge their shared language and heritage with China but remain wary of potential conflict. Kushmaro’s guide Anderson summed up the mood: "War is crap."

The trip highlighted Taiwan’s dual identity as a peaceful, industrious society and a potential flashpoint for global conflict. Kushmaro noted the warm reception from Taiwanese people toward Israelis, emphasizing shared values of education and resilience amid external threats. The journey combined technology, culture, and the sobering reality of geopolitical risk in one of the world’s most sensitive regions.