Promoting Greater Kaohsiung: Mayday Appointed as Global Ambassadors

By Chi Bing-hui, compiled and reported

 

Since the idol group Fahrenheit promoted Taiwan’s tourism in Japan and South Korea, successfully attracting many visitors to Taiwan, the Kaohsiung City Government recently announced the appointment of the Asian supergroup “Mayday” as global ambassadors for Kaohsiung. Throughout their one-year ambassadorship, they will produce promotional materials and videos to showcase the beauty and charm of Kaohsiung.

Lai Jui-long, Director of the Kaohsiung City Government’s Information Bureau, stated that since their formation in 1997, Mayday has connected different generations across Taiwan through music, earning multiple Golden Melody Award nominations and wins. With their fresh image and presence in both the Taiwanese and international markets, Mayday’s enthusiasm and energy align perfectly with Kaohsiung. The city government hopes to leverage Mayday’s high popularity and positive image to enhance Kaohsiung’s global visibility. In recent years, Mayday has held large-scale international concert tours in Mainland China, Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore & Malaysia, and New Zealand & Australia, generating significant buzz and media attention wherever they perform. In 2009, their “CREATE 55555 Concert” at the World Games Stadium challenged the record for the largest outdoor live concert in terms of attendance, setting an astonishing ticket sales record in Kaohsiung and drawing a massive influx of domestic and international fans, delivering remarkable tourism benefits.

 

Mayday also shared that they are very familiar with Kaohsiung, with each member well-versed in the city’s delicious food and scenic spots. Lead vocalist Ashin loves the taro ice pops from Jiaxian, praising their rich aroma, and highly recommends the sunset views at the Old Iron Bridge in Dashu. Band leader Monster recommends the comforting taste of the Gangshan lamb hot pot and enjoys the harbor scenery at Lover’s Pier in Qieding. Guitarist Stone is a big fan of noodles, with the chewy texture of Meinong’s noodles particularly captivating him — after a hearty meal, he suggests a visit to the nearby Maolin area. Bassist Masa enjoys the traditional shop foods on Qishan Old Street, especially the various banana-flavored ice creams and desserts available there. Drummer Guanyu loves the grouper from Yongding and is also fond of the unique lunar-like landscape of Tianliao’s Moon World.

Mayday will serve as ambassadors for a full year from now until next July, promoting Kaohsiung through city marketing materials and video shoots, while also joining the city government on overseas promotional tours. In October, they will host the “Kaohsiung SHILIFAP” concert at the World Games Stadium, and everyone is welcome to join in the fun in Kaohsiung.