Songs by BTS, BLACKPINK, EXO, and more are currently not allowed to be played at gyms. Why so? Keep on reading to know the reason.
BTS, BLACKPINK, and EXO Songs Banned from Being Played at Gyms in South Korea
Listening to upbeat and exciting music is part of one's gym experience. However, the playing of upbeat and exciting music in a gym will now be restricted from being played at gyms in Seoul, South Korea - specifically songs that are catchy and addicting, and with high beats per minute (BPM), such as songs from BTS, BLACKPINK, EXO, SEVENTEEN, and more.
The reason songs from these groups are being banned in the land of morning calm is due to the pandemic.
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Accordingly, South Korea is currently facing an increase in COVID-19 positive cases, with numerous actors, actresses, K-Pop idols, TV personalities, and more, being reported to have tested positive of the virus.
Over the past week, the number of COVID-19 positive cases in South Korea has reached a new record high, with more than 1,500 new cases each day.
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As a result, the government is implementing new measures to limit the spread of the virus, especially in the country's capital where the rate of positive cases is increasing sharply.
In addition to the standard regulations already implemented such as travel restrictions and social distancing, the city of Seoul is banning gyms from playing songs with a rhythm faster than 120 beats per minute, whether it's just background music or used for a purpose.
Some songs that are currently banned are BTS "Permission to Dance," BLACKPINK "How You Like That," EXO "Obsession," PSY "Gangnam Style," ENHYPEN "Drunk-Dazed," Weeekly "After School," and many more.
Health authorities believe that playing music that are too exciting and upbeat while performing vigorous and fast exercises can lead to the person's increase in their breathing rate and perspiration, which can then be transmitted to other people in the gym. Because of that, the virus can spread even more.
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Besides many songs being banned, health authorities are also restricting the use of some gym equipments and ammenities, such as treadmills only having a maximum speed of less than 6km/h, restricted use of bathrooms, and etc.
New Gym Restrictions Draw Flak for Being "Nonsense"
Following the news of the added restrictions, netizens and even opposing politicians have spoken up, stating that the restrictions are "nonsense."
Politician Kim Yongtae asked, "Who on earth would check the beat of a song while exercising? I don't understand how COVID-19 has anything to do with our music choices."
While gym owners have expressed their confusion with the music ban, saying that there are people who bring their own phones and headsets and play their own music.
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In addition, even if the gym doesn't play the music too loud, no one can control each individual's music choices, as no one knows or checks what they are listening to.
What are your thoughts on the music ban?
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Written by Robyn Joan
