Up Media: The Evolution of a Specialized Taiwanese News Outlet
In an era of rapid-fire digital news and sensationalist headlines, Up Media emerged as a distinct voice in the Taiwanese media landscape. Founded in 2016, the outlet was designed to pivot away from the "clickbait" culture, focusing instead on depth, analysis, and traditional journalistic integrity.
The Founding and Vision
The origins of Up Media trace back to early 2016, when former politician Ma Yung-cheng sought a transition out of politics. Collaborating with journalists Wang Chien-chuang and Shieh Chung-liang, the trio envisioned a media platform that prioritized substance over speed. On July 15, 2016, Up Media was officially established in the Zhongshan District of Taipei, headquartered on Chang'an East Road.
The startup was launched with an initial investment between NTD$150 million and NTD$200 million provided by four entrepreneurs. While ETtoday reported that the investors were primarily associated with the Pan-Green Coalition (a political grouping in Taiwan generally supporting Taiwanese identity and independence), the Want China Times highlighted that entrepreneur Chang Ya-li was a major shareholder, contributing over NTD$20 million.
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Leadership and Editorial Philosophy
The organizational structure of Up Media was unconventional; the outlet did not appoint a president at its inception. Instead, Ma Yung-cheng served as vice president, focusing on management and marketing to ensure he did not interfere with editorial independence. Wang Chien-chuang took the role of managing director, while Shieh Chung-liang served as chief editor, bringing several staff members from his previous tenure at The Storm Media.
The editorial team, consisting of 40 staff members, consciously avoided instant news coverage. By focusing on in-depth reporting and comprehensive interviews, the outlet aimed to steer clear of sensationalism and maintain a traditional approach to journalism.
Diversification and Growth
To ensure financial sustainability and reach a broader audience, Up Media expanded its scope beyond political analysis. In October 2016, the outlet entered the gaming sector by collaborating with video game companies to organize esports competitions. This began with the Third Major Six, a tournament for the game League of Legends.
The introduction of a dedicated gaming and esports column became a vital revenue stream for the company, and the Major Six event became an annual fixture. Further expanding its intellectual reach, Up Media partnered with Project Syndicate in August 2017 to publish translated articles from the global commentary service.
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Recognition and Leadership Changes
Over the years, the outlet's commitment to quality commentary has been recognized by the industry. In October 2018, an editorial regarding the Taiwanese local elections won the News Commentary Award at the Excellent Journalism Awards. More recently, in October 2024, a commentary on William Lai's inauguration received a nomination for the same award.
Individual achievements also marked the outlet's success, with Wang Chien-chuang receiving the Outstanding Contribution Award in Journalism in October 2020. Regarding leadership, Hu Hong-ren became the president of Up Media prior to 2018, and co-founder Ma Yung-cheng resigned from the organization in August 2020.
Key Facts
- Founded: July 15, 2016.
- Initial Investment: NTD$150 to 200 million.
- Headquarters: Zhongshan District, Taipei.
- Core Strategy: In-depth reporting and interviews over instant news.
- Revenue Diversification: Annual "Major Six" League of Legends esports tournaments.
- Global Partnership: Translation and publication of Project Syndicate articles.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Founding Figures | Ma Yung-cheng, Wang Chien-chuang, Shieh Chung-liang |
| Initial Staff Size | 40 members |
| Major Shareholder | Chang Ya-li (Invested over NTD$20 million) |
| Key Awards | Excellent Journalism Awards (News Commentary Award) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary editorial focus of Up Media?
Up Media focuses on in-depth reporting and interviews, intentionally avoiding instant news and clickbait to maintain a traditional journalism approach.
Who were the primary investors in Up Media?
The outlet was funded by four entrepreneurs with an investment of NTD$150 to 200 million. Reports indicate investors were primarily from the Pan-Green Coalition, including entrepreneur Chang Ya-li.
How does Up Media generate revenue outside of traditional news?
Up Media diversified its income by launching a gaming and esports column and organizing the annual Major Six League of Legends tournament.
What awards has Up Media received?
The outlet won the News Commentary Award at the Excellent Journalism Awards in 2018 and received a nomination for the same award in 2024. Additionally, managing director Wang Chien-chuang won the Outstanding Contribution Award in Journalism in 2020.
What is the relationship between Up Media and Project Syndicate?
Starting in August 2017, Up Media collaborated with Project Syndicate to translate and publish their articles for a local audience.