On October 27, the Department of Performing Arts and the Authority of Broadcasting, Television, and Electronic Information (under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism) held a working session following recent controversies over songs with inappropriate, culturally deviant content being performed and widely spread online.

Strengthening order in cyberspace, especially for influential artists

On the sidelines of the meeting, Mr. Le Quang Tu Do, Director of the Authority of Broadcasting, Television, and Electronic Information, stated that the recent incident involving singer Jack’s controversial lyrics was first flagged by users on platforms like YouTube and TikTok.

As the agency responsible for managing internet content, the Authority promptly coordinated with the Department of Performing Arts and the Hanoi Department of Culture and Sports to investigate the matter.

According to Mr. Tu Do, two consistent directives have been emphasized by the Ministry:

First, a firm response is required to restore order on digital platforms, ensuring that culturally inappropriate and offensive content does not spread, especially among youth.

Second, artists and influencers must recognize their role as public figures and act accordingly. As individuals with significant influence over the public, they are expected to uphold higher standards in behavior, speech, and creative output.

He emphasized that the Authority has already enforced strict measures, including criminal proceedings where necessary, to ensure deterrence.

In this case, preliminary review of the song’s content revealed signs of violation, including many inappropriate and offensive lyrics. Regardless of whether the song was officially licensed, Mr. Tu Do said, “Even from the lyrics alone, we identified serious issues.”

He also dismissed the artist’s public justification, citing inconsistencies: “For example, the line ‘Lào gì cũng tôn’ was claimed by the singer to mean ‘tôi’ (me), but when carefully slowed down and analyzed, it’s clear the word used was ‘tôn’.”

Furthermore, the agency noted that explanations by the artist’s team were vague and unconvincing. Citing a specific example, Tu Do said: “Lines like ‘Mấy đứa không ưa anh ngoài đời làm sao mà dám. Anh hát chơi chơi hơn một kiếp của nó đi làm…’ are negative, provocative, and not reflective of the ethical responsibilities of an artist.”

He also rejected the claim that the performance was spontaneous: “The choreography was clearly rehearsed, with backup dancers fully synchronized. That rules out improvisation.”

Based on these findings, the Authority formally proposed that the Department of Performing Arts and Hanoi’s Department of Culture and Sports investigate and take strict action. “We must draw a clear line in the sand. This needs to be resolved decisively to avoid setting a dangerous precedent,” Tu Do concluded.

Ho Chi Minh City advised not to invite artists with deviant content

Mr. Le Quang Tu Do also welcomed the official letter issued by the Propaganda and Mass Mobilization Committees of Ho Chi Minh City, which called on the Department of Culture and Sports, the Ho Chi Minh City Music Association, the Arts and Literature Criticism Council, and local media outlets to guide and rectify the current trajectory of music.

The letter advised against inviting artists whose songs violate cultural norms or promote indecent content to participate in city events.

“Art is life – but it must be a life that has been refined”

People’s Artist Xuan Bac, Director of the Department of Performing Arts, emphasized that the agency has worked closely with relevant bodies, especially Hanoi's Department of Culture and Sports, to address public and media concerns surrounding certain artistic programs.

“Upon receiving the initial complaints, we immediately requested detailed information,” he said. “Hanoi's department promptly provided comprehensive documentation, including show listings, song titles, venue changes, and meeting records with event organizers. This allowed us to evaluate the issue holistically and take coordinated action.”

Xuan Bac highlighted the need for cross-agency cooperation in managing the performing arts sector. “This field directly engages the public and profoundly influences thought, emotion, and perception. Government oversight in this area must be both cautious and adaptable – setting clear direction while encouraging creativity,” he noted.

The department has been actively revising legal frameworks under the Ministry's direction. “We're currently reviewing Decree 144, seeking input for amendments, and collaborating with the Legal Affairs Department to tighten regulations and enhance deterrents,” he added.

Xuan Bac underscored a guiding principle: “Art is life, and the stage reflects that life – but it must be a refined life. A true work of art must serve an aesthetic function, educate, and convey positive human values.”

He stressed that any expression in lyrics, fashion, or speech that contradicts traditional Vietnamese values will face strict penalties.

The Department of Performing Arts has handled numerous violations, including foreign songs that, once translated into Vietnamese, were found to contain vulgar or illegal language.

Xuan Bac praised the proactive collaboration between his department and Mr. Tu Do's team: “I deeply appreciate Mr. Le Quang Tu Do’s enthusiasm. Our departments have exchanged ideas, consulted with the Press Department, and even planned meetings with media outlets to establish unified, strong measures that support both regulation and creativity.”

Looking ahead, Xuan Bac expressed hope for a solid legal framework that promotes innovation and sustainable development in the cultural and entertainment industries.

“We’re expecting a new resolution on cultural revival and growth, which reflects the Party and State’s strong commitment. We call on artists, event organizers, and the media to join us – not only in celebrating artistic value but also in building a healthy, humane, and ethically guided cultural environment,” he concluded.

Tinh Le