North Korea aggressively checks Chinese TVs

The Asia Times reported on August 27 that North Korea is stepping up inspections of televisions imported from China, especially LCD models with USB ports and remote control functions.

A popular TV show in North Korea. Photo: KCTV

The move is part of Pyongyang's latest effort to block citizens from accessing foreign media.

In mid-August, a Pyongyang censorship unit known as “109 Sangmu” visited several homes in Yanggang Province, which borders China, to inspect televisions. An unnamed source said the unit removed USB ports and destroyed devices on the televisions so that users could not use the remote control.

Many North Koreans living along the border with China believe the checks are aimed at preventing them from watching the upcoming Asian Games in their bitter neighbor South Korea.

Imported televisions are capable of receiving foreign broadcasts.

North Korea had threatened to pull out of the Asian Games, which will open on September 19, after South Korea refused to cover the accommodation and food costs of a large delegation to the event. However, North Korea eventually decided to send 273 athletes and officials.

According to Soha.vn