Karaoke TV (KTV) bars are rising in popularity in Myanmar. All over the country, new KTVs pop up nearly every month. The same goes for nightclubs, casinos and other entertainment centres. But these places are mostly seen in a negative light by locals. Since the 2021 military coup especially, people often link KTVs directly to drugs, sex and other vices.
Even so, KTVs are popular in Myanmar. Karaoke in itself is a common go-to entertainment activity for families, friends or colleagues. So what makes KTV controversial? This commentary aims to unpack this by spotlighting the diverse people one might encounter at a KTV. | 
