Noted comic artist and author Lin Kuei-yu (林奎佑), known by his pen name Yu Fu (魚夫), passed away on Dec. 30 at the age of 65. Minister of Culture Li Yuan has expressed deep sorrow over the cartoonist’s death. He praised Lin’s multifaceted contributions as an artist, author, television host, and political pundit, emphasizing his enduring passion for Taiwanese culture and history.
Born in 1960 in Pingtung County, Lin began his career by publishing satirical comics in the China Times in 1982. Over the years, he held various roles, including television host at TVBS, director at Sanlih Entertainment Television, distinguished professor at Hungkuang University, and honorary professor at Tainan University of Technology.
As a pivotal figure in the history of Taiwan’s contemporary comics, Lin first gained recognition during his university years with a political cartoon titled “Chiang Ching-kuo Opens the Path (蔣經國開路)” published in the Independence Evening Post on Dec. 17, 1987. This work, the first to feature Taiwan’s head of state in comic form, encouraged readers to engage with the country’s political and social issues. Notably, Lin was honored with the Comics Prize from the Fourth Vivian Wu Journalism and Award Foundation (吳舜文新聞獎助基金會).
Renowned for his simplistic style, Lin used his political cartoons to promote the values of democracy, playing a significant role in advancing transitional justice after the end of martial law. Later in his career, he shifted his focus from political themes to exploring Taiwan’s local culture and daily life.
In addition to his comics, Lin authored several works on Taiwan’s classical architecture and culinary traditions. Notable publications include “Taiwan Century-Old Markets” (台灣百年市場) and “Inside Tainan’s Alleys (臺南巷子內),” which celebrate Taiwan’s architecture, cuisine, and culture.
