**Vietnam Orders Netflix to Remove Controversial Chinese Series**
Vietnam has mandated Netflix to take down the Chinese television series “Shine on Me” from its platform due to the inclusion of a map that represents China’s territorial claims in the South China Sea. The Department of Cinema, part of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, stated that the series contains scenes depicting the “nine-dash line” map, which they argue misrepresents and infringes upon Vietnam’s national sovereignty.
In a statement released on Sunday, the department highlighted that the map’s portrayal violates Vietnam’s cinema laws. Following a formal request from the government, Netflix confirmed the removal of “Shine on Me” from its service in Vietnam. This decision underscores the heightened sensitivity in Vietnam regarding China’s claims, which have previously resulted in maritime disputes.
The contentious map appears briefly in a college lecture scene within the series. This is not the first instance of Netflix facing scrutiny in Vietnam; in 2023, the platform was compelled to stop streaming another Chinese drama, “Flight to You,” despite the map being blurred in that version. Additionally, Vietnam has previously banned the film “Barbie” from theaters due to a scene featuring the same map and has investigated various brands for similar reasons.
The Department of Cinema has reclassified “Shine on Me,” a 27-episode series, as category C, which prohibits its distribution in Vietnam. The series was removed from online viewing by 11 AM local time on Monday. China’s claims extend over more than 80% of the South China Sea, supported by a 1947 map that outlines the nine-dash line, which has been a source of contention among Vietnam, the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, and Taiwan.
As tensions continue over territorial disputes in the region, Vietnam’s actions reflect its commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and addressing any perceived threats from foreign media.
**FAQ**
**Why did Vietnam order the removal of “Shine on Me” from Netflix?**
Vietnam ordered the removal due to the series depicting the “nine-dash line” map, which the government claims misrepresents its territorial sovereignty in the South China Sea.