South Korea sees rise in noise complaints regarding school sports days

Actor Ahn Jae-wook recently shared an experience on the MBC program ‘Radio Star’ regarding noise complaints received during his daughter’s school sports day. While volunteering as an emcee to build memories with his children, Ahn reported that residents filed complaints regarding the noise from children’s cheering and event music.

Data from the National Police Agency indicates a significant increase in such incidents. Noise-related reports concerning school sports days rose from 70 cases in 2018 to 350 cases in 2025, a fivefold increase over seven years. Last year alone, 345 of the 350 reported cases resulted in police officers being dispatched to the scene.

In response, the National Police Agency has instructed local police departments to avoid unnecessary dispatches for simple noise complaints during school events to distinguish them from emergencies. Additionally, the Minister of Education has requested public understanding to ensure students can participate in physical activities freely.