China cracks down on violence and misogyny in viral micro dramas

Micro dramas have surged in popularity, but drawn criticism for often sensationalist content.

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The campaign targets content that portrays soft pornography, "distorted views on marriage and relationships" and "ostentatious displays of wealth", said China's National Radio and Television Administration.

It comes as part of a larger effort by the Chinese government to guide social norms, including by promoting marriages and discouraging harmful ideologies from spreading online.

Micro dramas, which are serialised, made-for-mobile clips, have exploded in popularity globally in recent years, but have drawn criticism for their often sensationalist content.

Many shows feature wild, fast-moving plot lines, about topics ranging from secret billionaire husbands to forbidden romances, that are designed to keep viewers glued to their screens.