'Love Boat: Taiwan' Filmmaker Valerie Soe on Cultural Exchange Programs

The transcript discusses the Love Boat program, a cultural exchange initiative by Taiwan to strengthen international ties through soft power. The program aimed to influence perceptions of Taiwan as an independent nation, distinct from China, by showcasing its military and cultural identity. Over time, political changes and generational shifts have altered the program's scope and impact. The documentary filmmaker Valerie So shares her personal experience with Love Boat, highlighting its role in shaping her cultural identity and the broader Taiwanese-American identity.

What challenges does the Love Boat program face in the current political climate?

In what ways has the perception of Taiwanese identity changed over the years?