TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Representative to Finland Freddy Lim (林昶佐) combined his roles as diplomat and metal musician to draw Finnish politicians to a Taiwanese–Finnish metal music festival.
Lin, told CNA that the “F:F:F – Formosa : Finland : Fest.” held on Thursday, used a “precision strike” strategy, sending customized invitations to Finnish politicians who enjoy metal music. The approach attracted many officials who had previously declined Taiwan events, demonstrating an innovative breakthrough in Taiwan’s cultural diplomacy.
Lin pointed out that in the past, whether for Taiwan’s National Day or other events, some Finnish politicians and foreign diplomats often declined invitations. “We sent invitations to every event, but each time the response was ‘sorry, cannot attend,’ or we received no reply at all,” he said.
This time, responses were encouraging. Many previously reluctant officials not only confirmed attendance but even asked a week before the festival if they could bring additional guests.
Lin explained that diplomacy requires careful attention to detail. The representative office researched attendees’ personal interests and sent invitations accordingly: “If you like music, I will tell you which metal bands will perform; if you follow fashion, I will tell you which Taiwanese designers are participating.”
By targeting Finnish politicians with an interest in metal music, the event showed it was more than a diplomatic activity, it aligned with their personal interests. Lin emphasized that Taiwan’s cultural diplomacy is undergoing a strategic adjustment.
While Taiwan’s core values of democracy, freedom, human rights, and social resilience are crucial internationally, he said they can seem serious and lack emotional appeal. He stressed the importance of building emotional connections as well as rational support, allowing Taiwan’s cultural charm to truly resonate.
Lim plays erhu during his performance in Finland. (CNA photo)
Discussing his dual role as diplomat and musician, Lin admitted he initially felt nervous but gradually found a balance. He explained that after discussing serious bilateral issues, meetings often naturally shifted to casual topics, like inviting him to a newly opened heavy metal bar, or sharing information about upcoming concerts via messaging apps.
Samy Elbanna of Finnish metal band Lost Society said Lin’s role as Taiwan’s representative in Helsinki is a fascinating phenomenon because Finland is the only place where this could happen. He explained that Finland has a thriving heavy metal culture, and Helsinki is the ideal place for a metal fan to serve as an ambassador.
The event generated a strong reaction on international social media, with Lin’s performance video receiving 27,000 upvotes and 556 comments on Reddit within six hours. Some viewers expressed disbelief that a senior politician could also be a successful metal band frontman, highlighting Taiwan’s cultural diplomacy impact on the global stage.
The festival was co-organized by Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Culture, hosted by the General Association of Chinese Culture, and featured Taiwanese bands Chthonic, Flesh Juicer, and Crescent Lament alongside Finnish bands Korpiklaani and Lost Society.