Taipei, Taiwan – The Sports Department today issued five clarifications regarding a commercial advertisement featuring Minister Li Yang, affirming that his prior portrait authorization contract does not violate regulations for civil servants. The department addressed concerns arising from the continued use of Minister Li Yang’s image in advertising following his appointment.
The clarifications stem from document No. 11255291301, 112, dated January 19, 2012, which permits civil servants to utilize their intellectual property and portrait rights for reasonable consideration, provided it doesn’t contravene Articles 14, Paragraph 1, and 15, Paragraph 7 of the civil Servant Service Law. The department confirmed Minister Li Yang’s contract was signed before assuming office and complies with the law, granting the manufacturer the right to fulfill the existing contractual obligations. To preempt further debate, Minister Li Yang has already ceased signing any new endorsement deals or contract renewals since taking office, and no further agreements will be entered into during the current contract’s term.