Culture Minister vows to reform laws after Busan club suspension

South Korean Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Choi Hwi-young has pledged to reform outdated regulations following the suspension of 'Obangvarde,' a prominent indie music live club in Busan. The club faced a two-month business suspension after customers were caught dancing during performances, which violates the current Food Sanitation Act.

Under existing laws, while live music is permitted in general restaurants, dancing is prohibited unless the establishment is classified as an entertainment bar. The Busan Nam-gu District Office initiated administrative measures against the venue for these violations.

Minister Choi criticized the restriction, stating that dancing is a “natural response to music” and a “universal way for humans to enjoy music.” He emphasized the need to either amend current laws or create a new legal concept for “performance venues” to protect the indie music ecosystem and support young musicians.