The Kaohsiung Incident was a pivotal moment in the Taiwanese struggle for democracy, occurring amidst a backdrop of authoritarian rule by the Kuomintang (KMT). On December 10, as demonstrators gathered to promote human rights, the event was characterized by a peaceful atmosphere that rapidly escalated into chaos when police intervened. Roughly 20,000 people participated in the demonstration, organized by a coalition of pro-democracy activists who sought to challenge the political status quo that the KMT had enforced since retreating to Taiwan in 1949 following their defeat in the Chinese Civil War.

During the protest, demonstrators carried banners and chanted slogans advocating for political reforms and human rights. However, the KMT's response was swift and brutal; security forces clashed with protestors, resulting in injuries and arrests. Prominent leaders such as Shih Ming-teh and other activists were detained, leading to trials and imprisonment. This crackdown not only silenced specific voices but also instilled fear among the general populace.

The aftermath of the incident significantly impacted Taiwan's politics. It garnered international attention and highlighted the need for political reform, leading to an eventual thawing of the KMT's stringent policies. Over time, this contributed to the emergence of democratic reforms in Taiwan, culminating in the lifting of martial law in 1987 and the eventual transition to a multi-party democratic system.