The global popularity of the Netflix drama “Queen of Tears” has sparked concerns over illegal viewing practices, particularly in China, where the series has attracted a significant following. Seo Kyung-duk, a professor at Sungshin Women’s University, has highlighted the issue of “peeping toms” on Chinese content review sites, shedding light on the challenges faced by Korean content creators and the need for stronger legal protection.
According to Professor Seo, a review page dedicated to “Queen of Tears” has emerged on the Chinese content review platform Deruban (豆瓣), amassing over 40,000 reviews. This surge in reviews reflects a growing trend of unauthorized viewing and distribution of Korean content in China, a trend that has become more prevalent following the success of recent Korean films such as “Exhuma.”
Professor Seo expressed concern over the lack of remorse or shame among those engaging in illegal viewing practices. He emphasized the need for proactive measures from Chinese authorities to address this issue and protect intellectual property rights (IPRs).
Comparing the situation to past actions taken during events like the Beijing Winter Olympics, where Chinese authorities cracked down on illegal distribution of Olympic materials, Professor Seo urged similar action to curb illicit viewing of Korean content. He noted that while Chinese authorities are aware of these activities, they have not taken sufficient steps to address them.
The call for action extends beyond legal measures. Professor Seo emphasized the importance of cultural respect, urging Chinese authorities to recognize and respect other cultures while cracking down on illegal activities. This includes creating robust systems that protect content creators and their works globally.
In response to these challenges, content creators like those behind “Queen of Tears” must not only focus on producing quality content but also advocate for stronger legal frameworks and international cooperation to safeguard their creations.
The issue of illegal viewing underscores the complexities of the global entertainment landscape, highlighting the need for collaborative efforts among stakeholders to ensure fair and lawful distribution of content while promoting cultural appreciation and respect.
