China's 'Dark Palace' Club Forces Male Guests to Sign Consent Forms
"Some Women Experienced Sexual Harassment... Will Create a Safe Club"
Why Only Men Sign? Calls for Women to Sign Too

Interior view of the club unrelated to the article content [Photo source=Pixabay]

Interior view of the club unrelated to the article content [Photo source=Pixabay]

View original image

A famous club in China is making headlines for requiring all male guests who wish to enter to sign a consent form agreeing not to sexually harass female guests.


On the 28th, Hong Kong's South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported that the 'Dark Palace' club located in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, southeastern China, is obtaining consent forms from male visitors as a measure to protect women using the venue. The club management stated, "We are aware that some women have been sexually harassed," and added, "We made this decision so that women can enjoy themselves and feel safe (at the club)."


The consent form specifies that all behavior inside the club must be based on respect for women and other guests. It explains that this not only helps deter male guests from sexually harassing female guests but also avoids unnecessary physical contact known as 'bubibubi.' At the end of the consent form, the club adds, "If you love music, equality, and philanthropy, you will know that signing this contract is cool."


As the story of Dark Palace club spread, a heated debate arose among Chinese netizens. Most netizens responded with comments such as "This is a responsible club," "I support Dark Palace club," and "I'm glad they introduced the consent form with good intentions in these harsh times."


On the other hand, some netizens expressed opinions like "Signing the consent form doesn't mean the rules won't be broken," "Women should also sign the consent form. This is unfair," and "It feels like men are being seen as potential criminals."



Meanwhile, there are currently no specific laws or regulations in China regarding sexual harassment inside bars. However, the Women's Protection Law clearly defines the components of sexual harassment within bars and encourages women who have been victimized to actively report to the police.


This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.

© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.

Today’s Briefing