Ho Chi Minh City will strictly handle artists whose products deviate from cultural standards.

At a press conference on the afternoon of October 30, a representative of the Department of Culture and Sports of Ho Chi Minh City informed about the direction of handling artistic activities that show signs of "cultural deviation", affirming that there will be resolute measures against violations.

According to the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, besides the positive aspects of the vibrant artistic life, there are still some phenomena of deviant creativity, promoting the individual "ego", showing offensiveness in content, form or expression.

Background and direction from the City Party Committee

This move came after the Propaganda and Mass Mobilization Committee and the Ho Chi Minh City Party Committee issued a document requesting the correction of musical activities that showed signs of deviating from standards. The document named a number of singers such as HIEUTHUHAI, Phao, Jack, and B Ray because their musical products used language that was considered sloppy and offensive.

The City Party Committee also proposed to consider not inviting artists whose compositions, behaviors, words, or performances go against good customs and traditions, or promote negative lifestyles, to participate in the city's programs and events.

The view of the regulatory agency

Ms. Nguyen Thi Ngoc Hang, Deputy Head of the Art Department of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Culture and Sports, said that some works and performances contained offensive elements, used substandard language, and were not in accordance with national cultural traditions. "These products do not represent the role of aesthetic orientation for the public, especially the youth," Ms. Hang emphasized.

She also informed that the management agency has discovered and strictly handled many violations, including cases of temporary suspension or ban on performances, creating public consensus.

Future treatment directions

The Department of Culture and Sports of Ho Chi Minh City affirmed that it will continue to take resolute measures to handle violations based on legal regulations. At the same time, the Department will listen to experts' opinions and coordinate with organizations to educate and raise awareness of law compliance and exemplary behavior among artists.

For major political events and festivals in the city, the selection of artists will be focused on. In addition to professional competence, standards in professional activities and cultural behavior will be important criteria. This drastic move has received support from experts and public opinion, with the desire to build a healthy cultural environment.