In Vietnam, many forced out of homes by karaoke noise, call for thorough enforcement

Under Decree 282/2025, which took effect on Monday and replaces Decree 144/2021, the long-standing regulation that prohibited noise only after 10:00 pm has been abolished.

Instead of regulating noise by time frame, the new decree focuses on the actual level of noise generated, regardless of whether it occurs during the day or at night.

From December 15, karaoke singing or the use of portable loudspeakers can be penalized at any hour if the sound exceeds allowable limits, not just late at night as before.

Following the article ‘Disturbed by karaoke noise in Vietnam? Call your ward police immediately,’ a large number of Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper readers voiced strong expectations that local authorities will deal decisively and promptly with cases of loud, disruptive karaoke singing that undermines daily life.

Karaoke taken to sidewalks, speakers blasting at neighbors’ homes

Hundreds of reader comments suggest that karaoke noise has become a widespread nuisance rather than an isolated problem, turning into a nightmare for people in both urban and rural areas, from street-front houses to apartment buildings.

One reader recounted that just last night, a large speaker system appeared at a party near her house.

Within minutes, the entire neighborhood was ‘terrorized by sound.’

From early evening until around 9:30 pm, the reader said she had no choice but to leave home and take refuge in a café.

Another reader shared that for many years he has endured karaoke noise almost every weekend, often from several directions at once, with shrieking speakers blaring past 10:00 pm.

As year-end celebrations approach, households seem to take turns ‘torturing’ the neighborhood with noise, the reader said.

A resident in Ho Chi Minh City suggested wider communication of Decree 282 to all neighborhoods as a form of advance warning before enforcement measures are applied.

Others expressed frustration that singing at full volume occurs regardless of time or day, particularly on weekends and holidays.

Elderly parents struggle to sleep, children cannot study, and families are left exhausted by constant noise.

According to these readers, authorities should conduct regular inspections and impose penalties to deter violations and put an end to the problem.

Many voiced strong support for Decree 282 as a necessary tool to protect quality of life.

In reality, some people live in constant anxiety, fearing that neighbors might turn on their karaoke systems at any moment.

In many cases, karaoke singers treat shared residential spaces as their own private stage, putting speakers into yards or onto sidewalks.

Several readers proposed the establishment of dedicated hotlines, with all calls recorded, to enable rapid response and strict enforcement.

Others suggested adding feedback portals so residents can assess how authorities handle complaints.

A reader noted that despite the decree taking effect, noisy karaoke and drinking parties continue unabated in her neighborhood, located in Ho Chi Minh City.

Demand for thorough, transparent enforcement

A recurring demand from readers is that when residents report loud singing, authorities should arrive promptly at the scene and handle the situation.

Many urged local authorities to act strongly and consistently.

A reader called for public disclosure of ward police contact numbers, while Tinh Dang suggested that ward and commune authorities hold community meetings to clearly explain regulations on karaoke-related noise, giving residents a solid basis to report violations.

Reader Huy Long proposed local police officers conduct regular patrols, noting that some residents are afraid to make complaints themselves.

Meanwhile, many readers expressed concern about their identities being exposed when filing reports, fearing retaliation or hostility from neighbors.

They stressed that absolute confidentiality for informants is essential, not a minor issue, but a prerequisite for the law to truly take effect in everyday life.

Besides, some readers suggested that authorities should also address other forms of noise pollution, such as shouting during drinking parties or loud recreational activities, which similarly disrupt residential areas.