YouTube Clip Lambasting Thai King Removed

A YouTube user responsible for creating a 44-second clip mocking Thailand's king Bhumibol Adulyadej removed the clip sometime Thursday, however a ban on the site within the country still remains. According to the Thai government, two offensive images were still on the popular social video site, and until those are removed the ban would stay in place.

Adulyadej is revered as near-divine in Thailand and criticizing or offending royalty is punishable by up to 15 years in prison. However, the country has also been criticized for its shaky commitment to democracy, and has seen 18 separate coups in just the past 75 years. In responding to the Thais, YouTube said it would look into the matter, although it aims to provide a community where users are free to express themselves.