A simple message of thanks to Taiwanese writer and presenter Tsai Kang-yung has grown into a moving conversation about LGBTQ+ visibility, courage and belonging. When he replied with just four Chinese characters, former president Tsai Ing-wen and designer聶永真 joined in, reminding readers how much it can mean to see someone live openly.

Four characters, and a message years in the making

The exchange began with a rainbow-themed meme and a heartfelt note: “We’ve grown up well, Kang-yung.” Tsai Kang-yung reshared it and answered, “Mm, I know.” The understated reply struck a chord online, carrying the warmth of a long conversation rather than a polished public statement.

The post acknowledged the role that visible LGBTQ+ figures can play for younger people. In a previous interview, Tsai had said he hoped that living well could offer young gay people an example of the possibilities ahead. That idea gave the brief exchange its emotional weight. ([2], [3])

Tsai Ing-wen adds a line of solidarity

Former Taiwanese president Tsai Ing-wen left a comment that quickly became the post’s most shared sentiment: “Let’s hold an umbrella together for the children caught in the rain.” It offered a vivid image of solidarity, and one that readers could understand without needing a lengthy explanation.

The response drew warm reactions from social media users, some of whom said the exchange restored a measure of hope amid discouraging political news. Others described the pair’s support as more than shelter: a reminder that people deserve places where they can feel safe and accepted. ([4], [7])

A designer remembers an early act of encouragement

Designer聶永真 added a personal memory from 25 years ago, when he had just graduated from university. He recalled publishing his graduation project as a book, coming out through the work, and asking Tsai to write a recommendation. Tsai agreed, giving the young designer encouragement at the start of his career.

聶永真 said he, too, had grown up well, becoming a designer who could feel happy and proud. It’s a small story with a generous point: support offered at the right moment can stay with someone for decades. ([5], [6])

Why visible role models still matter

For younger LGBTQ+ people, seeing someone build a public life without hiding who they are can make the future feel less abstract. One person’s experience won’t define everyone’s path, of course, but visibility can help widen the sense of what’s possible.

The exchange also shows how social media can bring different generations into the same conversation. A meme, a brief reply and a few personal memories became a space for gratitude, not just a viral moment. ([2], [3], [7])

A gentle reminder that support adds up

There’s no grand speech here, and perhaps that’s why the words landed. The post connected a public figure’s long-standing visibility with the people who say it helped them find confidence, alongside a former president’s message of care.

For anyone wanting to show support, listening without judgement and making room for people to speak openly are meaningful places to start. Sometimes a simple sign that someone isn’t alone can matter more than a perfect phrase. ([4], [6])

A little encouragement can travel a long way.

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Story idea inspired by: [1]

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