Netflix Removes Chinese Series ‘Shine on Me’ Following Vietnam’s Protests Over Controversial Map
Netflix has recently removed a Chinese drama series from its platform in Vietnam following objections from the Vietnamese government. The series, titled “Shine on Me,” features a map that includes the controversial nine-dash line, which Vietnam considers a violation of its territorial sovereignty. This decision highlights ongoing tensions in the South China Sea, where multiple nations contest China’s expansive territorial claims.
Vietnam’s Objection and Netflix’s Response
On January 3, Vietnam’s culture ministry formally requested that Netflix remove “Shine on Me” within 24 hours due to its depiction of the nine-dash line. This line, used by China to assert its claims in the South China Sea, has been condemned by Vietnam as “inaccurate” and a breach of its national sovereignty. The series, which consists of 27 episodes, had gained popularity in various regions, including Vietnam, where it ranked among Netflix’s Top 10 shows before its removal. A recent check by the BBC confirmed that the series was no longer available on the platform in Vietnam.
The specific episode that sparked the controversy is the 25th, which features a scene where the main characters attend a lecture. During this lecture, a map displaying the nine-dash line is projected on a screen, prompting Vietnam’s swift action. The removal of the series underscores the sensitivity surrounding territorial disputes in the region and the impact of such content on international relations.
Background on the South China Sea Dispute
The South China Sea is a region of significant geopolitical tension, with multiple countries, including Vietnam, the Philippines, Taiwan, Malaysia, and Brunei, contesting China’s claims. Beijing has increasingly asserted its sovereignty over various islands and adjacent waters, leading to confrontations with other nations, particularly the Philippines. China has expanded some islands and constructed structures on them, while also conducting sea patrols that have resulted in clashes.
China justifies its claims by citing historical evidence, including artifacts and navigational guides used by Chinese fishermen. However, an international tribunal in The Hague ruled against China’s claims in 2016, a decision that Beijing has refused to acknowledge. The dispute primarily revolves around the Paracel and Spratly island chains, which are encircled by the nine-dash line on Chinese maps. Vietnam argues that it has maintained sovereignty over these islands since the 17th century, presenting documents to support its claims.
Previous Actions Against Chinese Productions
The removal of “Shine on Me” is not an isolated incident. In 2023, Vietnam also ordered Netflix to take down another Chinese drama, “Flight to You,” for similar reasons related to the depiction of the nine-dash line. This pattern reflects Vietnam’s strict stance on content that it perceives as infringing on its territorial integrity.
Vietnam has previously banned other productions for similar reasons, including Warner Bros’ “Barbie” in 2023 and DreamWorks’ animated film “Abominable” in 2016. These actions demonstrate the Vietnamese government’s commitment to safeguarding its national sovereignty and the sensitivity surrounding the portrayal of territorial disputes in media.
China’s Reaction and Cultural Implications
While Beijing has not officially commented on the removal of “Shine on Me,” the state-run newspaper Global Times published an article urging Vietnam to separate cultural exchanges from the ongoing South China Sea disputes. This statement reflects China’s desire to maintain cultural ties despite the political tensions surrounding territorial claims.
The situation illustrates the complex interplay between culture and politics in the region. As countries navigate their relationships in the South China Sea, media representations of territorial disputes can have significant repercussions. The removal of Chinese dramas from platforms like Netflix highlights the challenges of balancing cultural exchange with national sovereignty, particularly in a region marked by historical grievances and ongoing disputes.
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