Born in 1947 in Guangdong, China, and raised in Taiwan, he emerged as a leading figure in the Taiwanese New Wave cinema. Known for his contemplative and visually rich storytelling, his films often explore themes of memory, history, and the passage of time. Notable works include "A City of Sadness" and "The Assassin," which showcase his distinctive style of long takes and minimal dialogue. His contributions have earned him international acclaim, including a Best Director award at Cannes.