Passenger Kicks Elderly Woman on Taipei Metro After Being Hit by Bag During Priority Seat Dispute
A shocking incident on Taiwan’s Taipei Metro has sparked online debate after a passenger was caught on video kicking an elderly woman during a heated quarrel over a priority seat.
Elderly Woman Hits Passenger with Bag Over Priority Seat
The confrontation reportedly began when an elderly woman, standing and carrying several bags and an umbrella, started hitting a seated passenger with one of her bags. She allegedly demanded that the passenger vacate the priority seat so she could rest.
The video, which was originally posted on Threads before being deleted, showed the woman repeatedly striking the seated passenger. In response, the passenger calmly passed a shopping bag to another commuter, seemingly to prepare for confrontation. Moments later, as the elderly woman tried to hit again, the passenger stood up and delivered a swift kick that caused her to fall backward onto an empty seat.
The stunned woman was assisted by other passengers but quickly stood up, exclaiming, “I want to call the police!” The passenger, unfazed, responded in English, “You can try one more time.”
Argument Over Seat Turns Physical on Taipei Metro
According to local media, the elderly woman later told another commuter that she had been upset because she wanted to sit in the priority seat, explaining that she was carrying many items and intended to hang them nearby. However, the seated passenger insisted on keeping the spot, retorting in Mandarin that if she wanted comfort, she should have driven instead.
The altercation occurred on Monday afternoon (29 September) and quickly went viral online, prompting heated discussions among Taiwanese netizens.
Public Divided Over Who’s at Fault
Online reactions were mixed. Many criticised the elderly woman’s aggressive behaviour, with some suggesting she was known for targeting female commuters. One netizen even claimed to have encountered the same woman during pregnancy, saying she was hit by the same umbrella when the woman tried to snatch her seat.
Others, however, condemned the passenger’s response, arguing that kicking an elderly person — regardless of provocation — was unacceptable.
Police Investigating, Both Face Possible Fines
Taipei Metro police confirmed they are reviewing CCTV footage to identify both parties. Under Taiwan’s Social Order Maintenance Act, fighting on public transport can result in fines of up to NT$18,000 (around S$760).
Authorities reminded commuters that priority seats are meant for passengers with genuine needs — including those with disabilities, illnesses, or pregnancy — and not solely reserved for the elderly. Passengers are also urged to stay calm during disputes and report incidents to staff or use the train’s emergency button.
The viral case has reignited discussion in Taiwan about public etiquette and respect in shared spaces — a familiar debate seen in many crowded cities across Asia, including Singapore.