Nymphia Wind, the Drag Queen Sensation, Takes the Stage at Taiwan's Presidential Office

Taiwanese drag queen Nymphia Wind performed at Taiwan’s presidential office to celebrate her recent victory on “RuPaul’s Drag Race”. Dressed as a yellow water lily, she danced, twirled, and even did the splits in front of outgoing president Tsai Ing-wen. She lip-synced to Lady Gaga’s “Marry the Night” and Taiwanese singer Huang Fei’s “Chase, Chase, Chase.”

Nymphia thanked Tsai after her performance at the presidential office drag show, calling it a historic moment. She expressed gratitude for Tsai's service and contributions to the country.

With tears in her eyes, Nymphia thanked Tsai for her dedication over the past eight years, referring to her as the "Taiwan mother." She credited Tsai for creating a better future for the younger generation, including herself.

Taiwan is home to 24 million people and is known for its vibrant democracy. Despite Beijing's claims, Taiwan has never been under the control of the ruling Communist Party. However, most governments around the world do not recognize Taiwan as an independent country. In recent years, Taiwan has lost several diplomatic allies to Beijing.

Taiwanese drag queen Nymphia Wind shakes hands with Taiwan's outgoing leader Tsai Ing-wen.

Taiwanese drag queen Nymphia Wind shakes hands with Taiwan's outgoing leader Tsai Ing-wen.

Wang Yu Ching/Office of the President

Taiwan, under the leadership of President Tsai and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), has been a strong supporter of LGBTQ+ rights, setting itself apart as a progressive force in conservative Asia. The island is known for being one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly societies in the region, and in a landmark move, Taiwan legalized same-sex marriage in 2019. On the contrary, China, under the leadership of Xi Jinping, has taken a more restrictive stance, cracking down on LGBTQ groups and content.

In Taipei, the capital of Taiwan, the largest Pride march in East Asia takes place every October. Last year, Vice President Lai Ching-te made history by becoming the highest-ranking government official to participate in the event. Lai will be inaugurated as Taiwan's next president on Monday.

Taiwanese drag queen Nymphia Wind performs on May 15, 2024.

Taiwanese drag queen Nymphia Wind performs on May 15, 2024.

Reactions to the event on social media were mostly positive. One user expressed gratitude on Nymphia’s performance on Tsai’s official Facebook, saying, “Thank you for letting us showcase our freedom to the world.” The performance ended with Nymphia singing Jolin Tsai’s gender equality song “Womxnly” and being joined by five other drag queens.

Another person expressed their emotions by saying, "I felt like crying at the end. Taiwan has truly progressed from being labeled as feminine to legalizing same-sex marriage and having drag queens perform at the presidential palace today."

Not everyone was a fan of the performance. A different user commented, "I am not familiar with drag queens, but I do not want my children to be influenced by this." Meanwhile, on China's Weibo platform, some users criticized the performance taking place in front of the statue of Sun Yat Sen, who is known as the father of modern China and is a figure claimed by both the Chinese and Taiwanese governments.

Nymphia Wind attends "RuPaul's Drag Race" Season 16 finale screening at The Edge at Hudson Yards.

Nymphia Wind attends "RuPaul's Drag Race" Season 16 finale screening at The Edge at Hudson Yards.

Nymphia, the alter-ego of Leo Tsao, a Taiwanese American dressmaker, made history as the first East Asian to win “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” During her time on the show, she focused on showcasing and celebrating her cultural heritage.

Nymphia, a prominent artist in Taiwan's drag scene, is recognized for her extravagant outfits inspired by Asian heritage. She recently made a bold fashion statement on the show's finale with an outfit inspired by bubble tea, a popular cultural export from Taiwan. Additionally, she is known for her creative outfits that she designs herself, performing in temples and even doing a photoshoot at wet markets dressed as bananas at different ripeness levels.

The use of tropical fruit is a recurring theme in Nymphia's designs, serving as a distinctive symbol. It playfully reclaims a derogatory term often used to describe Asians raised in Western countries, highlighting the contrast between their outward appearance and inner identity.

Nymphia Wind and Jimbo onstage at the "RuPaul's Drag Race" season 16 finale screening event on April 19, 2024 in New York City.

Nymphia Wind and Jimbo onstage at the "RuPaul's Drag Race" season 16 finale screening event on April 19, 2024 in New York City.

Santiago Felipe/Getty Images

After accepting her crown and scepter on "RuPaul's Drag Race," she shared a powerful message: "For those who feel like they don't fit in, always remember to live boldly and have the courage to be true to yourself - and Taiwan, this is for you!"

Tsai expressed her gratitude to Nymphia after her performance, acknowledging her fearless beauty and her bravery in breaking down barriers. She mentioned that Nymphia's story would inspire many young people in Taiwan to remain fearless and stay true to themselves.

Additional reporting by Reuters.

Editor's P/S:

The performance by Taiwanese drag queen Nymphia Wind at the presidential office is a testament to the progress Taiwan has made in LGBTQ+ rights. Under the leadership of President Tsai Ing-wen and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), Taiwan has become a beacon of hope for LGBTQ+ people in Asia. By showcasing her talent and celebrating her cultural heritage, Nymphia has inspired many young people in Taiwan to be proud of who they are.

This event also highlights the stark contrast between Taiwan and China's stance on LGBTQ+ rights. While Taiwan has embraced