Taiwan’s largest telecommunications provider Chunghwa Telecom achieved recognition for its content investment strategy as its co-produced drama “The Outlaw Doctor” earned nominations at the Global OTT Awards for Best Asian Content and Best Screenplay.
The medical crime series, developed with Public Television Service and Hangrass Creative, marks an ambitious departure for Taiwanese drama production. The show features over 60% English and multilingual dialogue and includes international cast members, reflecting industry efforts to broaden appeal beyond domestic markets.
“The Outlaw Doctor” topped Taiwan drama rankings on Hami Video following its March debut, becoming the platform’s leading Taiwanese production for the first half of 2025. The series follows a Vietnamese doctor working illegally in Taiwan who partners with a neurosurgeon after a medical controversy forces them to flee authorities.
The telecommunications giant’s content investments extend beyond television. Its co-financed horror film “Haunted Mountains: The Yellow Taboo,” adapted from Taiwanese folklore, recently gained selection for Canada’s Fantasia International Film Festival, competing in the New Flesh category for Best First Feature. The film, inspired by one of Taiwan’s urban legends, represents the evolution of Taiwanese horror cinema.
International distribution deals for the horror film are expanding, with releases scheduled across Southeast Asian markets including Vietnam, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia and Brunei starting in August.
Chunghwa Telecom previously announced plans to invest NT$3 billion (US$93 million) in domestic television drama development through partnerships with the state-run Taiwan Creative Content Agency. The strategy positions the telecom operator to compete with streaming platforms while developing local content capabilities.
The company’s content investments come as Taiwan’s three major telecommunications providers pursue distinct strategies in the competitive over-the-top streaming market, seeking to differentiate their platforms through original programming and exclusive content.
