Shanghai’s “Shhh” on Karaoke, But Libraries & Cinemas Get the Green Light
Shanghai’s got a new policy in town: KTV halls are temporarily closed after a recent flare‑up at one of those loud‑mouth parties. But don’t worry—libraries, museums, and even movie theaters are free to keep running their doors open, at least for the time being.
What’s the deal?
- Closed now: All KTV karaoke venues across the city are shut down.
- Open for biz: Cultural spots like libraries, art museums, and cinemas can stay open.
- Coming back: Cinema screenings and live shows will resume on Friday, July 8.
City officials explain the move
Jin Lei, the deputy director of the city’s culture and tourism bureau, dealt with reporters on Wednesday. “We’re closing the karaoke venues because of a recent outbreak,” he said. “But the other venues are healthy enough to keep operating, so we’ll lift a temporary ban on them.”
Why the flip‑flop?
It all boils down to the risk level. Karaoke rooms are noise‑filled, crowded environments where people can’t (or won’t) keep a safe distance—perfect for the virus to spread. Libraries and theaters, on the other hand, have dealing with higher staff coverage and stricter ventilation controls.
What can you look forward to?
- Friday, July 8: The first wave back for movie screenings and live performances.
- Open access: Still free access to public libraries and cultural museums.
- Stay tuned: The city will keep monitoring the situation and adjust the rules as needed.
So, if you’re itching for a karaoke night, you’ll have to wait a bit. If you’re craving a dose of old‑fashioned history, the library’s still welcome. And for your cinematic cravings, the big screen will be back on Friday—just make sure you’ve got your mask on!
