LINE Chats Become Key Evidence in Taiwan Affair Case

Digital conversations are increasingly being treated as hard evidence in court, and a recent Taiwan case proves just that. A Taipei tech chairman was ordered to pay $32,500 after LINE Messenger chats revealed an affair that the court ruled seriously violated spousal rights. Screenshots, selfies, and private messages turned intimate interactions into compelling proof in civil court.

Affair Details Uncovered Through Digital Evidence

The chats between the chairman and his lover included sexual innuendo, intimate familiarity, and private exchanges that left little room for doubt. Among the evidence were a selfie of the chairman and a copy of his business card, cementing the identity of the individuals involved. The court relied heavily on these records to confirm the extramarital relationship, demonstrating how personal messaging apps can be used in legal battles.

Husband Seeks Damages Over Emotional Distress

The plaintiff, the husband, initially sought NT$1 million in damages, citing the emotional toll caused by the affair. After reviewing the evidence, the court ruled that spousal rights had indeed been seriously violated. The final compensation was set at NT$800,000, roughly $32,500, marking a significant win for the aggrieved spouse.

Timeline of the Affair

The scandal began in late 2024 when the chairman pursued a married woman. Reports indicate that their relationship escalated quickly, with frequent dates and overnight stays. By January 2025, the affair intensified, including several sexual encounters and even trips abroad together. Throughout the period, the woman remained legally married to her husband, who had wed her in 2022.

Digital Evidence Changing Legal Outcomes

This case highlights a growing trend: courts are increasingly accepting digital messages as decisive evidence. Platforms like LINE, once used for casual chats, are now capable of documenting actions that can influence legal decisions. This sets a precedent for how private communications may be scrutinized in future civil disputes.

Takeaway: Think Before You Send

The verdict serves as a stark reminder that private messages are rarely truly private. Screenshots, metadata, and even casual exchanges can have legal ramifications. For anyone navigating personal relationships, this case underscores the power of digital evidence in enforcing spousal rights.