North Korea can Philippines adultno 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.
Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable 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'srequest for comment.
However, Taj Meadows, head of communications in Asia for Google, told The Washington Postthat 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.”
SEE ALSO: YouTuber Louis Cole responds to outrage over his North Korea travel videosThis 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 reportsNorth 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 databaseto help combat "terrorist content" on social media.
Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable Topics YouTube
