The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism convened its regular press briefing for the first quarter of 2026 on the morning of April 15. Amid ongoing controversy surrounding the MV “Truth or Dare” by Jun Pham, authorities confirmed that the work is currently under review, with input being gathered from a professional appraisal council.

Tightening control over digital content and AI impersonation

One of the key issues drawing public attention is the growing misuse of artificial intelligence to impersonate celebrities for product promotion.

Nguyen Thi Thanh Huyen, Deputy Director General of the Authority of Broadcasting and Electronic Information, said existing regulations already clearly address the dissemination of false information and the use of technology that misleads users.

Accordingly, any content created or altered using AI must be clearly labeled to ensure transparency. In the field of advertising, violations involving misleading promotions can be subject to fines ranging from VND60 million to VND80 million (US$2,400 to US$3,200). Impersonating public figures not only breaches the law but also seriously damages the reputation of artists.

Alongside this, the code of conduct on digital platforms continues to be widely implemented. Since its introduction, the guidelines have received strong support from the community, particularly artists, influencers and digital platform businesses. In the coming period, authorities plan to intensify communication efforts, organize training sessions and expand outreach initiatives to foster a healthy and civilized online environment.

Stronger oversight of performance activities

Regarding performing arts, Tran Huong Duong, Deputy Director of the Performing Arts Department, noted that management and enforcement responsibilities have been decentralized to local authorities under Decree 144/2020.

For controversial issues such as inappropriate content in music products or lip-syncing practices, the Ministry has instructed localities to step up inspections, strictly handle violations and improve the overall quality of artistic performances.

In particular, in response to the debate surrounding the MV “Truth or Dare” by Jun Pham, relevant authorities in Ho Chi Minh City are conducting a formal appraisal and consulting expert councils. An official conclusion is expected to be announced in the near future. The artist has already voluntarily removed the video from digital platforms.

The Ministry is also planning a thematic workshop on the use of technical substitutes in live performances, including pre-recorded audio, to clarify the boundary between technical support and violations of live performance regulations.

Thousands of harmful contents removed from digital platforms

At the briefing, the Ministry also released data on the removal of harmful content from cross-border platforms. Facebook has blocked or removed 1,568 pieces of content and shut down 38 pages; YouTube has taken down 459 items and handled 20 violating channels; TikTok has removed 565 pieces of content along with hundreds of accounts; Threads has also taken action against violating posts.

The handling rate ranges from 92% to 97%, reflecting increasingly effective coordination between regulatory agencies and technology platforms in cleaning up the online environment.

In the second quarter of 2026, the Ministry will focus on refining the legal framework governing culture, tourism, cinema, libraries and publishing. It will also develop a national cultural index system and define a set of core cultural and human values for Vietnam in the new era.

Tình Le