A former Taiwanese taekwondo coach who swore loyalty to China now wants to come back, and Taiwan's semi-official cross-strait body is signalling he is not a priority.

• Lee Tung-hsien raised China's flag on the medal podium while wearing Taiwan's team uniform, then was found to hold a Chinese ID card.
• Taking Chinese citizenship cost him his Taiwanese household registration, his ID and his national health insurance.
• Life in China has since fallen apart — his social media account was banned, his gym closed, and his bank account is nearly empty.
• The Straits Exchange Foundation says it serves Taiwanese people first, and that ex-nationals like him would have to apply through relatives for a family visit.
• Even then, approval rests with Taiwan's immigration authorities, not the foundation.

Outlook: He is unlikely to get a smooth return, and the case will keep fuelling Taiwan's debate over citizens who take Chinese identity.