Society

Blackpink tour organiser apologises over nine-dash line map

K-pop music group Blackpink's tour organiser on July 6 issued an apology over its use of China's nine-dash line map, which Vietnam considers an infringement of its territory and sovereignty.
Blackpink tour organiser apologises over nine-dash line map ảnh 1The Blackpink show is slated for July 29-30 in Hanoi. (Photo:YG Entertainment)

Hanoi (VNA) - K-pop music group Blackpink's tour organiseron July 6 issued an apology over its use of China's nine-dash line map, whichVietnam considers an infringement of its territory and sovereignty.

During a press briefing in Hanoi on July 6 afternoon, Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pham Thu Hang stated that the promotion and use of products or publications featuring thenine-dash line in Vietnam is in violation of the laws.

IME Vietnam, the organiser of the Blackpink show slated for July 29-30 in Hanoi, said that the map was used in its Asian regional website, and thereis currently no separate website for the Vietnam market.

"We are aware of the need to respect the sovereigntyand culture of all countries where IMe is present. IMe has quickly reviewed andcommitted to replacing inappropriate images for Vietnamese people," saidBrian Chow, CEO of IMe.

“The map on the website does not represent any country'sterritory and we are aware of respecting the sovereignty and culture of allcountries where IMe is based.

“IMe’s goal in Vietnam is to bring Vietnamese fans theworld's top shows and artists, so we hope to receive the welcome and support ofthe local government and the people of Vietnam. We would like to express oursincerest apologies for this unfortunate misunderstanding,” he said.

The same day, the company sent an explanation document to the Hanoi Department of Culture and Sports and relevant agencies.

IMe is a multinational entertainment company established in2006 with more than 11 offices across Asia, including Thailand, Singapore,Malaysia, Indonesia, the Republic of Korea, and the Philippines.

The website that has China's nine-dash line map is the onefor regional offices in Asia and not the official website of the company in Vietnam.

The company does not have an official website to registerdomain names in Vietnam and only operates on a number of social networking platformswith the identity of IMe Vietnam./.

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