On April 30, 2025, two TikTokers from Ho Chi Minh City found themselves in hot water after posting misleading videos that sparked public outrage regarding safety and security. Ngô Nguyễn Thanh Ngân, born in 2002, and her boyfriend Lê Hồng Phúc, born in 2001, were summoned by the local police for disseminating false information about losing their phones while attending a rehearsal for a military parade.
The incident unfolded late on April 27, when the couple attended the military parade rehearsal at the intersection of Võ Văn Tần and Nam Kỳ Khởi Nghĩa. After the event, they decided to film two clips that would later go viral on TikTok. One video featured a young girl joyfully recording the parade with a selfie stick, only to turn around and discover her phone was missing. This clip was uploaded to Ngân's TikTok account, "cornnganvlog," and garnered over 26,000 shares.
The second video, posted on Phúc's account "phucbinhyenofficial," depicted him filming the parade when his girlfriend nudged him, leading to the realization that his phone had also disappeared. This clip exploded in popularity, attracting 120,000 likes, more than 3,900 comments, and 18,000 shares. Both videos played into the trending theme of "sơ hở là mất," which translates to "careless is lost," a phenomenon that has captivated social media users.
However, the videos did not sit well with the public. As they circulated online, they prompted a flood of comments expressing concern over the security situation in Ho Chi Minh City, with many viewers questioning the safety of attending public events. The police noted that the clips contributed to a growing sense of unease among citizens, particularly as the nation prepared for the significant 50th anniversary celebrations of the liberation of the South and reunification.
In response to the backlash, the Criminal Police Department of Ho Chi Minh City took action. Ngân and Phúc were called in for questioning, where they admitted that their intention was to create engaging content for social media, not to spread misinformation. They acknowledged that their actions could be seen as a violation of the law, particularly during a sensitive time when the public was keenly focused on national celebrations.
During their meeting with the police, the couple expressed regret for their actions. They recognized the potential harm their videos could cause, especially given the heightened security measures in place during the national events. In a follow-up, they recorded a clarification video to set the record straight, emphasizing that their original clips were intended for entertainment rather than to mislead the public.
The Ho Chi Minh City Police have since issued a warning to the public regarding the dangers of sharing misleading content online. They urged social media users to be aware of the legal implications of posting false information, especially in a digital landscape where misinformation can spread rapidly. "Every act of disseminating false information will be dealt with seriously in accordance with the law," a police spokesperson stated.
This incident highlights the growing concern over the influence of social media on public perception and safety. As platforms like TikTok become increasingly popular, the responsibility of content creators to ensure the accuracy of their posts becomes paramount. The police have called for greater awareness and adherence to legal standards among social media users, particularly during significant national events.
As the situation continues to unfold, it serves as a reminder of the fine line between entertainment and responsibility in the digital age. Ngân and Phúc's experience may resonate with many, illustrating how quickly a light-hearted attempt to engage an audience can spiral into a serious legal matter.
In the wake of the incident, the TikTok community has reacted with mixed feelings. While some users have criticized the couple for their irresponsible behavior, others have defended their right to create content, arguing for the importance of creative freedom. Nonetheless, the overarching sentiment remains clear: the impact of social media on public safety must be taken seriously.
As the nation gears up for its momentous celebrations, the focus will undoubtedly be on ensuring a safe and secure environment for all attendees. The police's proactive measures in addressing misinformation are a crucial part of this effort, aiming to maintain public trust and safety during a time of national pride.
In conclusion, the actions of Ngân and Phúc serve as a cautionary tale for content creators everywhere. As social media continues to shape our interactions and perceptions, the need for responsible sharing and accurate representation has never been more critical.
