China blocks access to K-pop and K-drama streaming services

On February 26, Yonhap News�reported that China has blocked online sharing platforms that allow access to Korean dramas and music.�

A Chinese website uploading K-dramas recently made an announcement on its Weibo account, stating that they will not be uploading videos of Korean entertainment for the time being, and added, "Everybody should be aware of the reason of this."

The blockage is assumed to be an anti-THAAD act to once again reflect China's strong opposition to the deployment of THAAD.�

SEE ALSO: THAAD leads to a stock price decline for major Korean Entertainment labels?

China's 'anti-hallyu' act has started in October of 2016 when the plans for THAAD were first announced. Appearances of Korean celebrities on Chinese broadcast has decreased and was eventually completely unseen following the issue involving THAAD. However, Chinese netizens still gained access to Korean dramas and TV shows through the online streaming services. Unfortunately, this access has now also been blocked.�

The continuous blocking of South Korean entertainment is expected to have a�great negative impact on Korea; resulting in decrease in profits for Korean entertainment companies and decrease in overall popularity of Korean media in China.�