YouTube blocked North Korean government’s channel
North Korea can no longer broadcast itself on YouTube.
The Google-owned video giant has taken down North Korea’s state television channel, which was home to everything from nuclear test videos to addresses from leader Kim Jong-un.
It's unclear as to precisely when and why YouTube blocked the channel. However, some suggest it was a reaction to the Treasury Department's sanctions banning U.S companies and citizens from doing business with North Korea’s Propaganda and Agitation Department.
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North Korea’s ability to make money through its channel can technically be seen as Google doing business with the country.
YouTube did not immediately respond to Mashable's request for comment.
However, Taj Meadows, head of communications in Asia for Google, told The Washington Post that the company doesn't comment on individual videos or channels.
“But we do disable accounts that violate our terms of service or community guidelines," he said. "And when we are required by law to do so.”
This is not the first time North Korea-related YouTube videos have been subject to scrutiny.
Earlier this year, YouTuber Louis Cole got backlash for showcasing what appeared to be enthusiastic travel videos from North Korea.
Many viewed this as controversial given that Human Rights Watch reports North Korea’s abuses are “without parallel in the contemporary world.”
When Cole's videos were uploaded, some called on YouTube, known for its democratic "broadcast yourself" nature, to take action.
The platform, some believe, has evolved into more of a network, and therefore should take more responsibility for what creators are posting.
Earlier this year, YouTube joined fellow tech giants Twitter, Facebook and Microsoft to create a database to help combat "terrorist content" on social media.
Topics YouTube
Saba was a Los Angeles-based reporter who covers all things digital entertainment, including YouTube, streaming services and digital influencers. Prior to that, she spent two years at the Los Angeles Times covering entertainment for the Calendar and Company Town sections. Saba grew up in Santa Monica and graduated from Boston University with a B.S. in journalism and B.A. in political science. When not reporting, she is usually binge watching shows online or looking for new coffee shops to frequent.
