China reportedly intensified ban on K-content earlier this year, closely reflecting the 'anti-hallyu' act of 2016

Earlier this year, China reportedly imposed a strict ban on the streaming of K-content.

According to media outlets, this measure was enacted to inhibit the inflow of Korean dramas and games in March and April of this year, respectively. The information was revealed on October 6 by Chosun Ilbo, citing reports from South Korea's Foreign Affairs and Unification Committee.

Previously, China had permitted the streaming of Korean dramas during the first two months of 2022, leading to China's OTT platforms to host works such as 'What's Wrong with Secretary Kim,' 'Hospital Playlist,' and 'Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha.'

Nevertheless, by June 2023, gleaning from negotiations despite South Korea's major broadcasting channels' attempts to secure contracts, it was evident that the measure had taken a firm hold. More so, the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism in South Korea highlighted that since the release of 'Oh! My Gran' in 2021, new Korean films have had no representation in Chinese theaters.

Moreover, Ahn Cheol Soo, a member of the National Assembly, acknowledged that China's ban on K-contents has not significantly improved since its presumed 'anti-hallyu' act, which started in October of 2016 and continued in 2017 as part of their 'anti-THAAD' act.

Korean netizens commented with mixed reactions, noting that the illegal streaming of K-content has nevertheless risen, regardless of the ban.