Netflix has removed the Chinese drama series Shine on Me from its platform in Vietnam following an objection from the Vietnamese government. The removal was prompted by the series featuring a map depicting the "nine-dash line," which Vietnam asserts infringes upon its national sovereignty and is inaccurate.
Background of the Dispute
The 27-episode romance drama Shine on Me contained images of the "nine-dash line" multiple times in episode 25. This disputed map feature appeared during a scene where characters attended a lecture on China's solar power capabilities, projected on an auditorium screen.
Vietnam has publicly stated that this line is "inaccurate" and infringes upon its national sovereignty. The nine-dash line is utilized by China on its maps to delineate its territorial claims within the South China Sea, claims that are disputed by several countries, including Vietnam.
Official Action and Compliance
Vietnam's culture ministry formally requested the series' removal on January 3, setting a 24-hour deadline for compliance. As of Tuesday, the series was confirmed to be unavailable on Netflix's Vietnam platform.
Series Popularity and International Reactions
Prior to its removal, Shine on Me had achieved popularity, ranking among Netflix's Top 10 shows in Singapore, Taiwan, and Vietnam.
As of reporting, Beijing has not issued an official comment or statement regarding the series' removal. However, China's state-run newspaper, Global Times, published an article on Tuesday advocating for Hanoi to "separate cultural exchanges from [the] South China Sea issue."