Born in the fishing village of Badouzi near Keelung, Wang Tuoh emerged as a significant figure in Taiwanese intellectual life during the late 20th century. He was a central voice in the nativist literature movement, which sought to emphasize local Taiwanese identity and social realities in literary production.

Beyond his literary output, Wang was deeply involved in the political sphere, serving in various government capacities. His work often reflected the intersection of cultural critique and the broader democratic development of Taiwan.