Youku is a prominent long-form video streaming service that offers a diverse library of licensed content, including Chinese television series and original productions. As part of Alibaba's Digital Media and Entertainment group, it caters primarily to young, urban audiences in China, boasting over 500 million users. The platform employs a hybrid business model, providing both free ad-supported content and subscription-based VIP options. Additionally, Youku collaborates with international partners like BBC Studios to enhance its offerings.

The platform operates legally within China, holding the necessary licensing rights for its content and adhering to strict government regulations and copyright protections. While it is accessible globally, certain content may be geo-restricted due to licensing agreements. Users should be aware that while official content is legitimate, some user-generated uploads may not be, though Youku actively manages content safety by removing infringing material upon notification.