It was apparently inspired by reports that the animation for the show is outsourced to South Korea.
Viewers get a first hand tour of the 'Simpsons Sweatshop' where kittens are thrown in a woodchipper as stuffing for Bart dolls, and a chained-up unicorn helps with the DVDs.
Banksy's work often draws attention to important political and human rights issues; this piece is no different. Conditions in many facories around the world are deplorable. But it should also be said that manufacturing and outsourcing were a key component of South Korea's economic development and the country is now among the wealthiest per capita in the world. What's needed in these factories is a blance between healthy working conditions and inexpensive labour. Unfortunately these finer points don't always make for great shock-art.
Cudos, Banksy, for another great piece. Cudos, South Korea, for 60 years of progress.
