KTV out of sync with youth, but in tune with retirees

The neon-lit karaoke parlors that dot Chinese cities were once a top choice for exuberant youth celebrating birthdays, going on dates or simply unwinding. Singing in a private karaoke room, reading lyrics from a high-definition television, and hearing your voice and sentiments vented through speakers was a highly sought-after experience a decade or two ago.

But today, it's a different story. The appeal of karaoke has waned, sparking discussion across social media. A hashtag on microblogging platform Weibo — "Why don't young people go to KTV anymore?" — has nearly 10 million reads, with comments ranging from complaints about the tedium of long hours in small rooms to a preference for other forms of entertainment.

The market reflects this shift. Meituan, a leading service provider in China, reported a significant decline in the number of KTV or karaoke television outlets and young patrons since last year. The country's three-year pandemic response also took a toll on some indoor venues, prompting karaoke venues to adapt their business strategies and appeal to middle-aged and elderly customers.