Chen Chung-hsin

Chen studied mathematics at Tunghai University and began his career in journalism, serving as a writer for the Independence Daily Post for eight years, as well as editor of Formosa Magazine and Taiwan Social Research Quarterly.^[1][2] Chen adopted the pen name Hangzhi (杭之).^[3] His association with the tangwai-affiliated Formosa Magazine forced him to go on the run in the aftermath of the Kaohsiung Incident.^[3][4]

Chen was twice elected to the Legislative Yuan via party list proportional representation as a member of the Democratic Progressive Party.^[1][2] As a legislator, Chen jointly proposed an amendment to the Criminal Prosecution Law in October 2000, alongside Chiu Tai-san and Lee Ching-hsiung, regarding the use of search warrants.^[5] In February 2002, Chen attended a press conference with You Ching and Chen Sheng-hung, in support of Lin Chin-hsing's opposition to a proposed increase for National Health Insurance premiums.^[6] During his legislative tenure, Chen was a member of the defense committee.^[7]

While serving as a legislator, Chen was appointed head of the Democratic Progressive Party's Chinese Affairs Department in July 2002.^[8] Compared to senior DPP leaders at the time, Chen's views on Cross-Strait relations were considered more favorable to China.^[8] The next month, Chen Chung-hsin reiterated the Chen Shui-bian presidential administration's adherence to the Four Noes and One Without.^[9][10] Chen Chung-hsin had planned to commemorate the National Day of the Republic of China in Hong Kong, but turned his visa application in late and was unable to participate.^[11] In January 2003, he visited China for the first time since taking on his party position.^[12][13] In December of that year, Chen discussed Kuomintang chairman Lien Chan's endorsement of Chen Shui-bian's One Country on Each Side, stating that Lien had previously criticized the concept and called on Lien to explain his party's views on Cross-Strait ties.^[14] In April 2004, Chen Chung-hsin was considered a candidate to replace Tsai Ing-wen as head of the Mainland Affairs Council.^[15] The position went to Joseph Wu, and Chen instead became deputy and acting secretary-general of the National Security Council.^[16][17] After leaving public service, Chen has commented on aspects of Taiwanese identity,^[18] Ma Ying-jeou's actions regarding Cross-Strait relations,^[19] and Taiwan's place within the one China principle.^[20]