YouTube and Streaming Platforms Criticized for Excessive Drinking Scenes

Streaming platforms and YouTube are facing criticism for the increasing amount of drinking scenes in online entertainment shows. This trend is especially concerning because it normalizes excessive alcohol consumption, often leading to intoxication and risky behavior, which can negatively impact younger viewers.

A recent academic forum highlighted the prevalence of binge drinking depictions in TV shows, YouTube videos, and other streaming services. Shockingly, nine out of 10 top-rated TV programs in Korea include at least one drinking scene. Over the past five years, 88% of the most popular TV shows featured such scenes, with the average number of drinking scenes per episode increasing from 0.3 in 2019 to 1.1 in 2023.

Even well-known shows like MBC’s “I Live Alone” have come under scrutiny for portraying celebrities engaging in heavy drinking. The Korea Communications Standards Commission has issued warnings to the show for depicting alcohol consumption in a way that doesn’t align with raising awareness about the dangers of excessive drinking.

The issue is not limited to traditional TV broadcasts, as online platforms like YouTube also contribute to the problem. Government regulations do not currently restrict the portrayal of inappropriate drinking behavior on these platforms, leading to popular drinking-oriented shows with high viewership.

Experts have found that online streaming programs have more liquor-drinking scenes per episode compared to TV shows, with an average of 5.6 scenes in 2021. This raises concerns about the influence of such content on younger viewers.

According to the Broadcasting Act in Korea, media content should not promote immoral conduct or have a negative impact on children and young people. Calls have been made for content producers to consider the influence of their shows on juvenile audiences and for the government to hold companies accountable and impose stricter penalties for irresponsible content.

In conclusion, it’s essential for entertainment platforms to be mindful of the messages they are sending about alcohol consumption, especially in a society where high-profile incidents involving celebrities and DUIs have already sparked public concern. By addressing these issues and implementing guidelines to limit the glorification of drinking, the industry can promote healthier and more responsible forms of entertainment.