China Live-Streaming: How far will live-streamers go to gain viewers?
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China has seen explosive growth in its online live-streaming sector, with millions around the country turning to broadcasting their daily lives. But as the business surges, there have been reports of people going beyond a moral bottom line to garner publicity. CGTN's Christy Skull has more.
In an attempt to win fans or make a fortune, some live-streamers have taken their video postings beyond the norm. Earlier this month, an uproar ensued after one live-streamer in Shandong province showed himself catching and roasting a wild animal. Last week, in south China's Hunan province, two live-streaming hosts climbed onto a police car.
MR. WU "I was drinking in a bar, then went outside to pick up my friend. I bumped into Mr. Xia, who is also an online celebrity. People wanted to take a photo with him, then I said I would take a photo with him too."
MR. XIA "I wanted to compete with Mr. Wu. I get dizzy when I'm drunk."
The two hosts were fined and jailed. Strict rules have been in place for live broadcasting since 2016. Chinese regulators have taken actions to prevent obscene, violent and other inappropriate content from being streamed.
XU LIANG, POLICE HESHAN POLICE STATION "The streaming platforms are required to regulate their hosts. If any misbehaviour or misconduct happens, our public security organization will investigate for legal responsibilities."
By the end of last year, profits from China's live streaming sector reached almost 5 billion US dollars, a 40 percent increase compared to the previous year. Around 400 million live streaming watchers are registered in China, more than half the country's total online population. But, the big market doesn't mean performers can make money broadcasting any content they want. Authorities say that people need a cleaner and safer online environment. Christy Skull, CGTN.