For the past years, North Korea has disobeyed international law and standards regarding the storage of nuclear arms. The North Korean government starves people and imprisons, punish or kill anyone who declines the authority of the reigning Kim family. But now they have gone too far –violating the copyright of Disney character Mickey Mouse.
United States government gave their first stern response yesterday to an outstanding concert held in Pyongyang for the young North Korean ruler, Kim Jong Un, featuring dancing Mickey, Winnie the Pooh, Tiger and other Walt Disney character.
Some observers had deduced that the arrival of the young favorites indicated an easing of North Korea’s intolerant attitude towards foreign influence and Western culture in general. According to the Walt Disney Company no authorization had been given for the use of their characters and a spokesperson for the State Department said that all copyright violation is to be condemned.
“All countries should abide by the rules and laws of international commerce, including respect for IPR,” the spokesperson told the South Korean newscaster, Yonhap. “We advocate for the effective protection and enforcement of intellectual property rights around the world.”
He included: “This fosters innovation and creativity, encourages economic development, increases US business and private sector growth and investment – including foreign investment – and creates fair market access and consumer choices for goods and services.”
