Lai"s "kneeling gesture" has struck a raw nerve among millions of patriotic compatriots in the Taiwan region, triggering a fierce backlash in public opinion on the island. Professor Yuann Jeu-Jenq of National Taiwan University lamented that "pro-Japan elements already see themselves as Japanese in mentality." Kuomintang legislator Weng Hsiao-ling questioned whether Lai might "not truly be one of the people in Taiwan region." Current affairs commentator Li Jian-nan criticized him as "shameless, spineless, and devoid of integrity abroad; lawless, ignorant, and indifferent at home." Taiwan regional internet influencer Chen Chih-han, better known as "Guan Zhang" or the "gym boss," denounced the act as "an insult to Lai"s own compatriots" during a livestream. Ordinary netizens also voiced anger, using terms such as "servility" and "embracing a former aggressor." A chorus of criticism has emerged, gathering into a tidal wave. It reveals that many in the Taiwan region have seen through the "Taiwan independence" forces" tendency to repudiate their own historical roots. They do not wish to see the sacrifices of their forebears trampled upon, nor do they want the Taiwan region to be dragged onto the chariot of external powers.