The Chinese government started supplying Korean Broadcasting System’s (KBS) international TV channel KBS World to some 250 hotels in China from Sept. 1 2007. The distribution agreement was reached after “rigorous negotiation” between KBS and China’s regulator, the State Administration of Radio, Film and Television (SARFT) for more than three and a half years. KBS World is beamed via SINOSAT, the only platform opened to foreign channels by the Chinese government, adding to 34 foreign channels including CNN, BBC World and NHK World Premium. Hotels in districts for foreigners and other designated areas can access KBS World. KBS World will primarily serve 4.5 million Korean visitors of the 20 million foreigners visiting China yearly, as well as 700,000 Koreans who live permanently in the country. In addition, the channel is available to 30 million Chinese staying regularly at hotels that receive SINOSAT-carried channels.