Taiwan is a country located in East Asia, officially known as the Republic of China (ROC). It is an island situated off the southeastern coast of mainland China, separated by the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan is surrounded by the East China Sea to the north, the Philippine Sea to the east, and the Luzon Strait to the south.
At around 36,000 square kilometers, Taiwan is a relatively small nation, yet it maintains a highly developed economy and advanced technology sector. It is recognized for its vibrant democracy and high standard of living. The capital city of Taiwan is Taipei.
Taiwan has a complex political history. It was under Japanese rule from 1895 until the end of World War II, after which it came under the control of the Republic of China. Following the Chinese Civil War, the ROC relocated to Taiwan in 1949 after losing the mainland to the Communist Party, proclaiming itself as the legitimate government of China. While Taiwan has its own government, economy, and military, it is not universally recognized as a separate sovereign state.
Today, Taiwan is known for its technological advancements, including a major presence in the semiconductor industry and being a leading manufacturer of high-tech products. It also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with influences from its indigenous peoples, China, Japan, and various immigrant groups. Taiwanese cuisine, such as bubble tea and night market street food, is renowned worldwide.
