As Netflix's original series 'Squid Game' Season 3 continues its global phenomenon following Seasons 1 and 2, signs of illegal viewing have been detected again in China, where it is not officially available.
On Douban, China's largest review site, it was reported that over 21,000 reviews related to 'Squid Game 3', which was released on the 27th of last month, had been registered as of the 3rd. More than 55,000 people participated in the star rating evaluation.
Since Netflix is not officially available in China, it appears that local users have illegally watched 'Squid Game 3' and left reviews. The issue of 'illegal distribution and viewing' has resurfaced in this season as well.
Professor Seo Kyung-duk from Sungshin Women's University criticized on his social media on the 4th, stating, "Illegal viewing has become a daily occurrence in China," and added, "It is very regrettable that there is no sense of shame." He urged, "The Chinese authorities should now focus on cracking down on the illegal activities of their citizens."
Previously, illegal distribution and unauthorized viewing issues also arose in China for 'Squid Game' Seasons 1 and 2. As the global success of Korean content continues, the need for international responses to illegal distribution is becoming increasingly urgent.
Meanwhile, according to FlixPatrol, a global online video service (OTT) ranking site, 'Squid Game 3' has ranked first in Netflix's global TV show category for five consecutive days since its release on the 27th of last month. It continues to hold the top spot in 93 countries, setting an unprecedented record.
