© 2025 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

South Korean Gym Goers Have Fewer Music Options Because Of COVID Rules

(SOUNDBITE OF SONG, "HOW YOU LIKE THAT")

BLACKPINK: (Singing) How you like that?

STEVE INSKEEP, HOST:

Good morning. I'm Steve Inskeep. South Korean gymgoers have fewer music options thanks to new COVID regulations. The country is among the most successful in keeping down the pandemic with repeated crackdowns, and Seoul gyms are banned from playing up-tempo music like K-pop hits. The regulations are intended to prevent people from breathing too heavily, which could spread the virus. You must avoid working out at more than 120 beats per minute. It's MORNING EDITION. Transcript provided by NPR, Copyright NPR.

Local journalism matters—and it’s at risk.


WKAR brings you trusted news, without barriers—no paywalls, no corporate spin. But now, federal funding that helps make it all possible is on the chopping block. Your support is more important than ever. Stand up for independent journalism in mid-Michigan—make your gift today.