Full Breakdown
Vietnam Orders Netflix to Remove Chinese Series Over Territorial Dispute
1/6/2026, 12:05:23 AM
Overview of the Incident
Vietnam has mandated the removal of the Chinese television series *Shine On Me* from Netflix due to the inclusion of a map depicting China's nine-dash line, which asserts territorial claims in the South China Sea. The order was issued by Vietnam's Department of Cinema under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, citing that the map misrepresents and violates Vietnam's national sovereignty. The series was taken down within 24 hours of the government’s demand, with the ban officially taking effect on January 5, 2024.
Context of the Nine-Dash Line
The nine-dash line is a demarcation used by China to claim over 80% of the South China Sea, a region also claimed by Vietnam, the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, and Taiwan. The contentious nature of these claims has led to maritime clashes and heightened tensions in the region. Vietnam's sensitivity to this issue is reflected in its previous actions, including the banning of other films and series that featured similar maps, such as the 2023 film *Barbie* and the 2022 movie *Uncharted*.
Official Statements & Responses
In its statement, the Department of Cinema emphasized the importance of protecting national sovereignty, stating, “The inspection found scenes showing the ‘nine-dash line’ map, which misrepresents and violates Vietnam’s national sovereignty.” Netflix confirmed the removal of the series, stating, “Following a written government demand, we have removed *Shine On Me* from Netflix in Vietnam.”
Conversely, Chinese experts have criticized Vietnam's actions, suggesting that cultural exchanges should not be conflated with territorial disputes. Gu Xiaosong, dean of the ASEAN Research Institute, remarked that film and television productions are part of normal cultural exchanges and should be handled prudently by Vietnamese authorities.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics argue that Vietnam's stringent measures against cultural products featuring the nine-dash line may hinder people-to-people exchanges and cultural understanding between Vietnam and China. They contend that such actions could exacerbate tensions rather than promote dialogue. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning echoed this sentiment, stating that cultural exchanges should not be linked to the South China Sea issue.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the Vietnamese government has been firm in its stance against the nine-dash line, there are differing opinions on the impact of such cultural products on public perception. Some experts believe that the portrayal of the nine-dash line in media could influence Vietnamese citizens' understanding of China's claims, while others argue that the removal of such content may not significantly alter public sentiment.
Conclusion
The removal of *Shine On Me* from Netflix underscores the ongoing tensions surrounding territorial claims in the South China Sea and Vietnam's commitment to safeguarding its national sovereignty. As cultural exchanges continue to evolve, the intersection of media representation and geopolitical issues remains a critical area of concern for both Vietnam and China.
